Breaking News: Sofidel Acquires Royal Paper Assets in Major US Expansion
June 17, 2025 – Porcari, Italy: Sofidel, a leading producer of paper for hygiene and domestic use, has sealed its first significant acquisition of 2025, entering the US market with new factories and bolstering its logistics.
Establishing Foothold in North America
In a strategic move announced on April 9, Sofidel has officially completed the acquisition of Royal Paper LLC assets. This acquisition includes three plants in Arizona—Gila Bend, a paper mill, and two converting plants in Phoenix—along with a converting system in Duncan, South Carolina. The $400 million “Stalking Horse” offer has solidified Sofidel’s entrance into the western US market.
Luigi Lazzareschi, CEO of Sofidel, expressed his enthusiasm, noting, “This acquisition strengthens our presence in the west, significantly enhancing our logistical capabilities and response time to our customers.”
Royal Paper Joins the Sofidel Family
“We are thrilled to join the Sofidel family,” said Steve Schoems, CEO of Royal Paper. “With 35 years of experience, we are eager to unite our know-how with Sofidel to better serve our customers.”
Sofidel also plans to retain a significant portion of Royal Paper’s workforce, underscoring its commitment to continuity and growth.
Expanding Production Capacity
The acquisition marks a substantial step in Sofidel’s expansion strategy, adding three new facilities to its portfolio in the US. These join 12 other existing plants, solidifying the Americas as the largest revenue contributor to the group’s turnover.
In Parallel, ongoing expansion projects in Duluth, Minnesota, and Circleville, Ohio, are underway. These investments highlight Sofidel’s future outlook and stability in the US market.
Industry Impact and Future Implications
As a result of this acquisition, Sofidel now has a stronger footprint in the western United States, capable of minimizing delivery times and optimizing their supply chain. This impact reinforces Sofidel’s competitive edge and its long-term commitment to the North American market.