Hubbry Logo
search
logo
Berry Global avatar
Berry Global
Berry Global
current hub
B

Berry Global

logo
Community Hub0 Subscribers
Read side by side
Berry Global
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Berry Global Group, Inc. was a Fortune 500 global manufacturer and marketer of plastic packaging products.[2] Headquartered in Evansville, Indiana, it had over 265 facilities across the globe and more than 46,000 employees[3]

Key Information

With $14+ billion in revenues in fiscal year 2022, the company was one of the largest Indiana headquartered company in Fortune Magazine’s ranking.[4] The company changed its name from Berry Plastics to Berry Global in 2017.[5][1]

The company had three core divisions: (1) Health, Hygiene, and Specialties; (2) Consumer Packaging; and (3) Engineered Materials.[6] Berry claimed to be the world's leader in manufactured aerosol caps, and also provided one of the most extensive lines of container products. Berry had more than 2,500 clients, including firms as Sherwin-Williams, Borden, McDonald's, Burger King, Gillette, Procter & Gamble, Pepsi, Nestle, Coca-Cola, Wal-Mart, Kmart, and Hershey Foods.[7]

Berry Global was purchased by Amcor on 30 April 2025, where it was delisted from the New York Stock Exchange.[8]

History

[edit]

In Evansville, Indiana, a company named Imperial Plastics was founded in 1967. In the beginning the plant employed three workers and produced aerosol caps using one injection molding machine (in 2017 more than 2400 employees worked for Berry Global in Evansville).[9] The company was purchased by Jack Berry Sr. in 1983.[10] In 1987 the company made its first expansion outside Evansville, opening its second plant, in Henderson, Nevada.

In recent years, Berry has completed several acquisitions including Mammoth Containers, Sterling Products, Tri-Plas, Alpha Products, PackerWare, Venture Packaging, Virginia Design Packaging, Container Industries, Knight Engineering and Plastics, Cardinal Packaging, Poly-Seal, Landis Plastics, Euromex Plastics S.A. de C.V., Kerr Group, Covalence Specialty Materials,(the former Tyco Plastics & Adhesives business),[11][12] Rollpak, Captive Plastics,[13] MAC Closures, Superfos, and the Pliant Corporation.

Landis Plastics, Inc. was based in Chicago Ridge, Illinois, with five domestic facilities supporting North American customers, manufacturing injection molded and thermoformed plastic packaging for dairy and other food products. Landis had experienced robust organic sales growth of 10.4%(1) over its last 15 years, before its purchase by Berry Plastics in 2003. During 2002, Landis generated $211.6 million of net sales.

In September 2011, Berry Plastics acquired 100% of the capital stock of Rexam SBC for an aggregate purchase price of $351 million ($340 million, net of cash acquired), financing the purchase with cash on hand and existing credit facilities. Rexam produces rigid packaging, notably plastic closures, fitments and dispensing closure systems, and jars. The acquisition was accounted for under the purchase method of accounting, accordingly allocating the purchase price to the identifiable assets and liabilities based on estimated fair values at the acquisition date.[14] In July 2015, Berry announced plans to acquire Charlotte, North Carolina–based AVINTIV for $2.45 billion cash.[15]

In August 2016, Berry Global acquired AEP Industries for $765 million.[16]

In April 2017, the company announced that it was changing its name to Berry Global Group, Inc.[17] In November 2017, Berry announced it had acquired Clopay Plastic Products Company, Inc. for $475 million.[18] In August 2018, Berry Global acquired Laddawn for an undisclosed amount.[19] In July 2019, Berry Global acquired RPC Group for $6.5 billion. Berry's combined global footprint will consist of over 290 locations worldwide, including locations in North and South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia, and Russia.[20] The pro forma combined business will employ over 48,000 people across six continents with sales of approximately $13 billion based on the latest published financial statements of Berry and RPC.[21][22]

In February 2024, Berry Global merged its Health, Hygiene and Specialties side of the company with Glatfelter Corporation.[23][24]

In November 2024, Amcor entered into an agreement to acquire Berry Global for US$8.43 billion in stock.[25] The deal was closed on April 30, 2025 (2025-04-30)[26]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Berry Global

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Berry Global Group, Inc. (NYSE: BERY) was a leading multinational manufacturer and distributor of plastic packaging products and engineered materials, founded in 1967 and headquartered in Evansville, Indiana.[1][2] The company specialized in developing, designing, and producing a diverse portfolio of rigid packaging (such as closures, bottles, and containers) and flexible packaging (including films, bags, and liners) for end markets including consumer products, food and beverage, healthcare, personal care, and industrial applications.[3] With approximately 42,000 employees across more than 200 manufacturing facilities worldwide, Berry Global generated $12.3 billion in revenue in fiscal year 2024, operating through key business segments as of that year: Consumer Packaging North America, Consumer Packaging International, Health, Hygiene & Specialties Global (spun off on November 4, 2024), and Flexibles.[3] Originally established as Berry Plastics Corporation in Evansville, the company grew through a series of acquisitions and expansions, evolving into a Fortune 500 entity by 2018 with a focus on sustainable and innovative packaging solutions, such as recycled content products and custom-engineered materials.[4][5] Berry emphasized environmental responsibility, partnering with brands like Nestlé Purina for initiatives involving recycled plastics and achieving recognition for ESG governance from outlets like Forbes.[3][6] In November 2024, Amcor plc announced an all-stock acquisition of Berry Global valued at approximately $8.4 billion, which received shareholder and regulatory approvals, including from the European Commission.[7] The merger was completed on April 30, 2025, at a fixed exchange ratio of 7.25 Amcor shares per Berry share, integrating Berry's operations into Amcor to form a global packaging leader with enhanced capabilities in sustainable solutions and serving customers in more than 140 countries across approximately 400 facilities.[7][8] As of November 2025, former Berry Global assets continue to operate under the combined Amcor entity, contributing to its position as a top provider of responsible packaging for food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and other sectors.[8][9]

Overview

Founding and Evolution

Berry Global traces its origins to 1967, when it was established as Imperial Plastics in Evansville, Indiana, by Robert Morris as a small local manufacturer specializing in plastic injection molding for aerosol overcaps.[10] The initial operation was modest, employing just three workers and utilizing a single injection molding machine in a former cigar factory.[11] This foundational venture laid the groundwork for the company's entry into the packaging industry, focusing on basic plastic products for consumer goods.[10] In 1983, the company underwent a significant transition when it was acquired by Jack Berry Sr., an entrepreneur who renamed it Berry Plastics Corporation to align with his vision for expansion.[10] Under Berry's leadership, the firm began to grow beyond its local roots, incorporating additional manufacturing capabilities and broadening its product offerings in plastic packaging.[12] This renaming marked the start of a period of steady development, positioning Berry Plastics as a key player in the U.S. packaging sector.[10] The company's evolution accelerated in the mid-2010s through strategic acquisitions that expanded its international presence. In 2024, Berry divested its Health, Hygiene & Nonwovens Fibers (HHNF) business as part of a portfolio transformation. This led to a rebranding in 2017 from Berry Plastics Group, Inc. to Berry Global Group, Inc.[13] This change reflected its transition to a multinational entity with operations across multiple continents and a diverse portfolio of packaging solutions.[14] Berry Global achieved Fortune 500 status in 2017, maintaining its ranking until its acquisition by Amcor in April 2025, during which time it reported peak annual revenues exceeding $14 billion in fiscal year 2022.[15] For fiscal year 2024, revenues stood at approximately $12.3 billion, underscoring its scale as a leading packaging provider.[7] Throughout its history, the headquarters in Evansville, Indiana, has served as the central hub for administrative and executive functions, anchoring the company's operations in its original location.[10]

Corporate Identity and Scale

Berry Global Group, Inc. operated as a publicly traded company on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol BERY until its delisting on April 30, 2025, following the completion of its merger with Amcor plc.[16] Prior to the merger, the company was structured around four core business segments: Consumer Packaging North America, Consumer Packaging International, Health, Hygiene & Specialties Global, and Engineered Materials, which collectively drove its focus on innovative plastic packaging solutions.[17] With an employee base of approximately 42,000 worldwide as of fiscal year 2024, Berry Global maintained a significant operational scale, supporting its activities across multiple continents.[2] As one of the world's largest manufacturers of plastic packaging, Berry Global held a prominent market position, providing essential solutions to key industries including food and beverage, healthcare, and personal care, where it emphasized sustainable and customized materials to meet diverse consumer needs.[18] This leadership was underscored by its global reach and ability to serve major brands through high-volume production of rigid and flexible packaging formats.[19] The company's strategic identity underwent a transformative shift with its acquisition by Amcor in an all-stock transaction valued at $8.4 billion, finalized on April 30, 2025, which integrated Berry Global into a larger entity and led to its delisting from the NYSE.[7] This merger created a combined organization with enhanced global scale, broader product portfolios, and projected annual pre-tax synergies of $650 million by the end of fiscal 2028, primarily through cost efficiencies in supply chain, procurement, and operations.[20] The integration positioned the new entity as a dominant force in consumer packaging, amplifying Berry Global's pre-merger strengths in innovation and market coverage while fostering greater sustainability initiatives across the industry.[18]

History

Origins and Early Growth (1967–1990)

Berry Global traces its origins to 1967, when Imperial Plastics, Inc. was founded in Evansville, Indiana, by local entrepreneur Robert Morris. The company began operations with a single injection molding machine in a modest facility, employing just three workers to produce plastic aerosol overcaps for consumer products. By 1969, Imperial had relocated to the former Fendrich Cigar Factory at 101 Oakley Street, a historic site that provided expanded space for its growing operations.[21][22][23] In its early years, Imperial Plastics focused on injection molding technology to create custom rigid plastic containers and closures, primarily serving regional clients in the food, dairy, and industrial sectors. The company supplied items such as dairy containers and pry-off pails for products like paint and chemicals, building a reputation for reliability amid the plastics packaging boom of the 1960s and 1970s. By the mid-1970s, Imperial had hired design engineers and marketing specialists to support modest expansion, responding to national growth in its customer base while remaining a small, family-oriented operation. Key innovations during this period included the development of simple, durable rigid plastic bottles and closures tailored for consumer goods, which helped differentiate the firm in a competitive market.[21][10][24] The company faced challenges in the 1970s and 1980s, including economic recessions that strained the plastics industry through fluctuating resin prices and reduced demand, as well as intensifying competition from larger national firms. Additionally, the era's surge in corporate takeovers created uncertainty for smaller players like Imperial, culminating in its sale. In 1983, Florida-based entrepreneur Jack Berry Sr., who had built wealth in the citrus industry, acquired Imperial Plastics for its assets and renamed it Berry Plastics Corporation under family leadership. At the time of the transition, the company's annual revenue was approximately $4 million, reflecting its status as a regional niche player.[10][21][23]

Expansion Through Acquisitions (1990–2016)

In the 1990s, Berry Plastics shifted its growth strategy toward mergers and acquisitions, leveraging private equity backing to purchase local competitors and consolidate its manufacturing footprint in the Midwest. This approach began with its acquisition by First Atlantic Capital in 1990, which provided capital for expansion while management retained equity stakes.[25] Key deals included the 1992 purchase of Mammoth Containers from Genpack Corp., adding approximately $10 million in annual revenue through expanded container production in Iowa.[10] By the mid-1990s, the company accelerated this strategy with the $26 million acquisition of PackerWare Corporation in 1996, which generated $44 million in sales and strengthened Berry's position in thermoformed drink cups and food containers; the same year, it acquired Container Industries, Inc. in California for its pry-off container expertise, contributing $3.5 million in sales. In 1997, Berry bought Virginia Design Packaging Corp. for its food packaging capabilities, adding $15 million in annual sales. These transactions helped net sales reach $158 million by fiscal 1996, focusing on regional consolidation and product line diversification without venturing far beyond North America.[10] The 2000s marked a period of larger-scale deals that broadened Berry's portfolio into new materials and markets. A pivotal transaction was the 2007 stock-for-stock merger with Covalence Specialty Materials Holding Corp., formerly Tyco Plastics, which introduced protective films, pressure-sensitive tapes, and adhesives to Berry's offerings and expanded its flexible packaging capabilities. The combined entity reported pro forma annual sales of $3.1 billion for fiscal 2006, positioning Berry as a more diversified player in specialty coatings.[26] This was followed by the 2011 acquisition of Rexam PLC's Specialty and Beverage Closures business for $360 million, enhancing Berry's rigid packaging segment with advanced closure technologies for beverages and food. In 2015, Berry acquired Avintiv Inc. (formerly Polymer Group Inc.) for $2.45 billion, gaining expertise in nonwovens for hygiene, healthcare, and industrial applications, while adding global manufacturing sites. The following year, in 2016, Berry completed the $765 million acquisition of AEP Industries Inc., bolstering its flexible packaging with stretch films and liners, and projecting over $50 million in annual cost synergies.[27][28] Berry's public listing in 2012 further fueled its acquisition-driven expansion. The initial public offering raised $471 million by selling 29.4 million shares at $16 each, providing liquidity and enabling subsequent debt-financed deals amid favorable market conditions. This capital supported ongoing growth, including the Avintiv and AEP transactions. Over the period from 1990 to 2016, these acquisitions transformed Berry from a regional manufacturer into a multinational leader, with annual sales growing from approximately $3.1 billion in fiscal 2007 to $6.5 billion in fiscal 2016. The strategy also facilitated entry into European and Asian markets, particularly through Avintiv's international nonwovens operations and Covalence's global film supply chains, diversifying revenue beyond North America.[29][30]

Modern Developments and Acquisition by Amcor (2016–2025)

In 2017, Berry Plastics Group Inc. rebranded to Berry Global Group Inc. to better reflect its expanded global operations and diversified portfolio beyond traditional plastics manufacturing.[13] This change, effective April 13, 2017, aligned with the company's strategic shift toward innovative packaging solutions across multiple sectors.[31] As part of this evolution, Berry Global established ambitious sustainability targets, including a commitment to design 100% of its fast-moving consumer goods packaging to be reusable, recyclable, or compostable by 2025.[32] Between 2017 and 2024, Berry Global pursued strategic acquisitions to enhance its capabilities in specialty films and engineered materials. A notable deal was the 2018 acquisition of Clopay Plastic Products Company Inc. from Griffon Corporation for $475 million, which bolstered Berry's position in breathable films for health, hygiene, and protective apparel applications.[33] Another significant transaction was the $6.5 billion purchase of RPC Group plc in 2019, expanding Berry's European footprint and rigid packaging offerings.[34] These moves built on prior expansions, integrating complementary technologies to drive growth in high-value segments. Smaller deals continued into early 2025, such as the February acquisition of CMG Plastics, which added injection molding and extrusion expertise in custom packaging for North American markets.[35] Facing increasing market pressures from plastic waste regulations and consumer demand for eco-friendly solutions, Berry Global invested heavily in the circular economy during this period. The company ramped up incorporation of post-consumer recycled content in products, achieving a 36% increase in recycled polyethylene usage by 2024 while supporting U.S. legislation like the Accelerating a Circular Economy for Plastics Act, which mandates minimum recycled content thresholds.[36][37] These efforts included partnerships for 100% recycled plastic packaging, such as jars for Mars brands, reducing virgin plastic use by over 1,300 tonnes annually and aligning with broader regulatory pushes for recyclability.[38] On November 19, 2024, Berry Global announced its merger with Amcor plc in an all-stock transaction valued at approximately $8.4 billion, aiming to create a leading global packaging provider with enhanced scale and innovation.[18] Berry shareholders received 7.25 Amcor shares per Berry share, with the deal receiving shareholder approval in February 2025 and unconditional clearance from the European Commission on April 25, 2025.[39] The merger closed on April 30, 2025, marking the end of Berry Global's independent operations.[40] Following the merger, Berry Global's shares were delisted from the New York Stock Exchange, and its operations were integrated into Amcor's structure to leverage combined expertise in flexible and rigid packaging.[41] The integration is projected to yield approximately $650 million in annual cost, growth, and financial synergies by the end of the third year post-closing.[42] As of November 2025, the integration has progressed with Amcor reporting robust first-quarter fiscal 2026 results, including a 71.3% year-over-year increase in adjusted EBITDA, driven by the Berry acquisition, and synergies accelerating ahead of expectations.[43]

Operations

Business Segments

Berry Global operated through four reportable business segments as of fiscal year 2024, ending September 28, 2024, prior to the spin-off of one segment and its subsequent 2025 merger with Amcor: Consumer Packaging North America, Consumer Packaging International, Flexibles (reported as Engineered Materials), and Health, Hygiene, and Specialties. These segments collectively generated $12.3 billion in net sales for fiscal year 2024, with a focus on plastic packaging and engineered solutions for diverse end markets. The structure emphasized operational efficiency and customer alignment, enabling the company to serve global industries ranging from consumer goods to healthcare.[44] On November 4, 2024, Berry completed the tax-free spin-off of its Health, Hygiene and Specialties Global Nonwovens and Films business, merging it with Glatfelter Corporation to form Magnera Corporation (NYSE: MAGN), a global specialty materials leader. This transaction reduced Berry's reportable segments to three—Consumer Packaging North America, Consumer Packaging International, and Flexibles—until the completion of the merger with Amcor on April 30, 2025.[45][46] The Consumer Packaging North America segment accounted for 24% of net sales at $3.1 billion in fiscal 2024. It specialized in rigid plastic containers, bottles, tubs, closures, and dispensing systems primarily for food, beverage, and personal care products, with a strong dominance in the North American market where demand for durable, lightweight packaging drove growth. This segment benefited from established supply chains and innovations in recyclable materials to meet regulatory and sustainability demands.[44][47] The Consumer Packaging International segment contributed 32% of net sales, or $3.8 billion in fiscal 2024, focusing on similar rigid packaging products for non-North American markets.[44] The Flexibles segment, reported as Engineered Materials, generated 23% of net sales, or $2.8 billion in fiscal 2024, focusing on flexible films, tapes, protective solutions, stretch wraps, and trash bags for industrial, retail, and shipping applications. These products provided corrosion protection, adhesion, and containment for sectors like construction, agriculture, and logistics, with adaptations to e-commerce growth through enhanced protective packaging to handle increased online shipping volumes.[44][47] The Health, Hygiene, and Specialties segment contributed 21% of net sales, totaling $2.5 billion in fiscal 2024, and centered on nonwovens, specialty films, and tapes for medical devices, hygiene products, and sterile packaging solutions. It emphasized high-barrier materials for healthcare applications, such as infection control and pharmaceutical containment, serving end markets in hygiene, building, and consumer specialties with a focus on compliance and innovation in nonwoven technologies. This segment was spun off on November 4, 2024.[44][48] Inter-segment synergies arose from shared manufacturing capabilities, such as integrated extrusion and converting processes, which optimized material flow and reduced costs across divisions. This structure also facilitated cross-selling opportunities to major clients like Procter & Gamble, allowing Berry Global to bundle rigid containers from Consumer Packaging with protective films from Flexibles for comprehensive supply solutions. The segments collectively adapted to market shifts, including e-commerce expansion, by prioritizing scalable, sustainable packaging to support rising online retail demands.[47][49]
SegmentFY2024 Net Sales ($ millions)Percentage of Total
Consumer Packaging North America3,12224%
Consumer Packaging International3,84332%
Flexibles (Engineered Materials)2,75623%
Health, Hygiene, and Specialties*2,53721%
Total12,258100%
*Spun off on November 4, 2024.[44]

Manufacturing and Global Footprint

As of the end of fiscal year 2024, Berry Global maintained a robust global manufacturing network consisting of 200 facilities. These sites were distributed across key regions, with 82 facilities in the United States and Canada, 94 in Europe, and 24 in the rest of the world, including Asia and South America. Following the November 4, 2024, spin-off of the Health, Hygiene and Specialties segment, which included approximately 46 facilities transferred to Magnera, Berry's manufacturing footprint was reduced to about 154 facilities prior to the merger with Amcor.[44][50] The company's headquarters and a major operational hub were located in Evansville, Indiana, where it supported multiple production sites focused on plastic packaging.[51] This footprint enabled efficient regional supply to diverse markets while leveraging economies of scale in North America, which accounted for 54% of operations.[52] The company's core manufacturing technologies included blow molding, injection molding, and extrusion processes, primarily utilizing polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) resins.[52] These methods supported high-volume production of rigid and flexible packaging components. For instance, at its large-scale facility in MidAmerica Industrial Park, Illinois, Berry Global produced over 140 million units annually, highlighting the capacity for substantial output in engineered materials.[53] Berry Global's supply chain emphasized global sourcing of raw polymer resins, with a strong focus on North American suppliers to mitigate regional disruptions and ensure material availability.[52] The company collaborated closely with resin producers and optimized logistics through integrated planning and transportation strategies to facilitate just-in-time delivery to customers.[54] In terms of sustainability, Berry Global invested in energy-efficient manufacturing plants, achieving 65% renewable electricity usage across operations as of 2023, and implemented waste reduction initiatives, including 100% on-site compliance audits.[52] The company targeted 10% post-consumer recycled (PCR) content in fast-moving consumer goods packaging by 2025, as part of a broader commitment to 100% reusable, recyclable, or compostable packaging by the same year.[52][44] As of fiscal year 2024, Berry Global employed approximately 42,000 people worldwide; following the spin-off, this number decreased to about 34,000 employees supporting its production scale prior to the merger.[44][55] Key sites like the MidAmerica Industrial Park facility, which employed over 260 workers, exemplified the company's focus on large-scale, efficient manufacturing hubs.[56]

Products and Services

Consumer Packaging Solutions

Berry Global's Consumer Packaging Solutions segment encompassed a range of rigid and flexible packaging formats designed for everyday consumer goods, particularly in food, beverage, and household markets. The rigid product lineup included bottles, jars, and tubs primarily made from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE), serving applications such as dairy products like yogurt containers, beverage packaging, and containers for household chemicals.[44][57] These materials provided durability, clarity, and recyclability, with the combined Consumer Packaging North America and International segments generating $6,965 million in net sales in fiscal 2024, representing 57% of the company's consolidated revenue.[44] In parallel, the segment offered flexible packaging solutions such as pouches, bags, and films tailored for snacks, personal care items, and other consumer products, often incorporating tamper-evident features to ensure product integrity and safety. These flexible formats, including stand-up pouches and retort pouches for dry foods and frozen goods, utilized polyethylene-based structures that supported high-barrier protection against moisture and oxygen.[58][59] Berry Global's flexible offerings saw expanded production capacity, particularly for food and pet food sectors, enhancing accessibility for brands seeking lightweight, portable options.[60] Customization was a key aspect of the segment, with options like child-resistant closures and recyclable designs developed in collaboration with major brands. For instance, Berry Global partnered with Nestlé Purina PetCare to produce 100% recycled PET canisters for Friskies Party Mix cat treats, featuring widely recyclable structures in 20oz and 30oz sizes, except for labels and lids.[61] These tailored solutions prioritized sustainability and compliance with regulatory standards for consumer safety. The segment's market applications emphasized North American and international consumers, with notable growth in e-commerce packaging following the surge in online retail post-2020, driven by demand for protective, efficient formats that withstood shipping.[44] Innovations included lightweight bottle designs, such as tethered closures for beverage bottles that achieved up to 20% material reduction compared to traditional versions, supporting Berry Global's broader goals of circular economy advancement.[62] Following the April 2025 merger with Amcor, these products continued under the combined entity's consumer packaging portfolio.[7]

Engineered Materials and Films

Berry Global's Engineered Materials (renamed Flexibles in 2024) segment specialized in the production of advanced films, tapes, and fabrics designed for industrial and protective applications, emphasizing durability and performance in demanding environments. This segment encompassed a range of products including stretch and shrink films, which were widely used for securing loads on pallets in logistics, manufacturing, and distribution to prevent shifting and damage during transit. These films were engineered with high puncture resistance and elasticity, allowing them to conform tightly to irregular shapes while providing robust containment.[63][64] Protective films and tapes formed a core offering, tailored for sectors like construction and automotive where surface safeguarding was critical. For instance, polyurethane and polyethylene-based surface protection tapes shielded materials from scratches, abrasions, and contaminants during fabrication, assembly, and shipping processes. Duct tapes and custom-formulated adhesive tapes, produced with in-house adhesive mixing technology, provided strong bonding and sealing solutions for sealing joints, repairing equipment, and temporary fixes in rugged settings. These products featured high-tack adhesives that adhered to low-surface-energy materials and offered clean removability to avoid residue.[65][66][67] The segment also included nonwovens and engineered fabrics, such as polypropylene nonwovens utilized in agriculture for crop covers that protected plants from frost, excessive UV exposure, and pests while promoting soil warmth and moisture retention. These woven and nonwoven materials were designed with breathable structures to balance protection and ventilation, enhancing crop yields in horticultural applications. Additionally, they served as durable backings in industrial contexts requiring filtration or reinforcement.[68] Specialty applications within the segment featured trash bags, lawn and leaf collection bags, and insulation films, predominantly made from polyethylene resins, including formulations with recycled content to support environmental goals. Trash and lawn bags were constructed with high-strength, puncture-resistant designs to handle heavy debris loads, while insulation films provided thermal barriers in building envelopes using flexible polyethylene sheeting. Performance enhancements, such as UV-resistant additives and reinforced coextrusions, ensured longevity in outdoor exposure and extreme weather.[69][70][71] This segment served key industrial clients, including automotive suppliers and adhesive market leaders like 3M, with applications spanning construction, agriculture, and logistics. Prior to the merger with Amcor, the Flexibles segment contributed approximately $2.8 billion in net sales in fiscal 2024, underscoring its scale in non-packaging engineered solutions.[44] Following the merger, these offerings were integrated into Amcor's operations.[7]

Health, Hygiene, and Specialty Products

Berry Global's Health, Hygiene, and Specialties segment specialized in developing and manufacturing advanced packaging and materials tailored for the healthcare, personal care, and hygiene industries, emphasizing protection, compliance, and user safety prior to the spin-off of its Health, Hygiene and Specialties Global Nonwovens and Films (HHNF) business, completed on November 4, 2024, through a merger with Glatfelter to form Magnera Corporation (NYSE: MAGN). This division produced a range of sterile and non-sterile solutions designed to meet stringent regulatory requirements, including those from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), ensuring product integrity for pharmaceuticals and medical applications. Key offerings included medical packaging such as sterile bottles, vials, and dispensing systems, which provided secure containment and administration for liquid and solid medications. For instance, Berry's Optym medical bag films were engineered for high-clarity, puncture-resistant applications in header bags and pouches suitable for sterilization processes like E-beam and gamma radiation, supporting intravenous (IV) fluid delivery.[72][73][45] In the hygiene sector, Berry Global supplied nonwoven fabrics and components essential for absorbent hygiene products, leveraging technologies acquired through the 2015 purchase of Avintiv Inc., which enhanced its capabilities in spunmelt nonwovens. These materials included soft, barrier-protected fabrics used in diapers, baby wipes, feminine care items, and adult incontinence products, with features like improved absorbency and cloth-like texture to enhance user comfort. Absorbent cores incorporated channeled designs for efficient liquid management, contributing to leakage prevention in disposable hygiene articles. The segment's nonwovens also extended to healthcare applications, such as medical gowns and masks, addressing demands for personal protective equipment.[74][27][75] Specialty devices from the segment focused on innovative drug delivery and safety features, including components for inhalers and child-resistant pharmaceutical packaging. Berry developed all-plastic dual-chamber inhalers without metal parts, enabling precise delivery of combination respiratory drugs and improving accessibility for patients with complex needs. IV bags and related overwraps utilized high-barrier films to maintain sterility and protect against contamination during storage and transport. Child-resistant closures, such as the Digi-Cap with integrated digital adherence tracking, combined safety standards with technology to prevent accidental access while supporting medication compliance, particularly for pediatric and elderly users.[76][77] Sustainability efforts within the segment emphasized eco-friendly innovations, such as recyclable medical films and efforts toward biodegradable nonwovens, building on post-Avintiv expansions to reduce environmental impact without compromising performance. These included films with post-consumer recycled content approved for FDA-compliant food and pharma contact, alongside compostable options for hygiene applications. The segment served a global clientele in healthcare and consumer goods, with growth fueled by rising demand from aging populations and increased hygiene awareness, as evidenced by investments in capacity for nonwovens production to meet forecasted market expansion.[78][79][80] As of November 2025, the HHNF products operate under Magnera, while any remaining HHS assets are part of Amcor.[45][7]

Leadership and Governance

Executive Team

Kevin J. Kwilinski served as Chief Executive Officer of Berry Global from October 2023 until the merger with Amcor in April 2025, overseeing operational excellence and preparations for the merger. With nearly 30 years of experience in the packaging industry, Kwilinski previously held CEO roles at multiple firms, including Fort Dearborn Company and Portola Packaging, where he focused on growth strategies and supply chain optimization.[81][82] Kwilinski did not join Amcor's executive team post-merger. Mark W. Miles served as Chief Financial Officer from 2014 until the merger, managing Berry Global's financial strategy, including debt reduction following major acquisitions and integration efforts after the company's 2012 initial public offering. Under his leadership, the company achieved significant leverage improvements, reducing net debt through disciplined capital allocation and divestitures. Post-merger, Amcor restructured its finance leadership, appointing a new CFO, Stephen R. Scherger, effective November 2025.[83][84][85] Other key executives included Rodgers K. Greenawalt, Executive Vice President of Operations since 2013, who led global operations, safety, product development, and supply chain initiatives to enhance efficiency across manufacturing sites. Greenawalt continued in a similar role at the combined Amcor entity post-merger. Edmund "Ted" J. Doering served as Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer from August 2024 until July 2025, driving digital transformation through technology investments in data analytics and cybersecurity before departing to become CIO at Ball Corporation.[86][87][88][89] The pre-merger executive team demonstrated diversity with approximately 31% female representation and collective expertise in sustainability practices and mergers and acquisitions, supporting Berry Global's strategic shift toward circular economy goals and portfolio optimization.[90] In 2024, Kwilinski's total compensation reached $20,017,718, primarily tied to performance metrics such as earnings targets and stock performance, reflecting alignment with shareholder value creation ahead of the merger.[91]

Board of Directors

Berry Global's Board of Directors, prior to the 2025 merger with Amcor, consisted of 11 members, with 10 serving as independent directors.[92] The board was structured to include key standing committees, such as the Audit & Finance Committee, the Compensation & Talent Development Committee, and the Nominating & Governance Committee, which oversaw financial reporting, executive compensation, and corporate governance matters, respectively.[93] These committees ensured robust oversight during the company's growth phase, including strategic decisions on acquisitions and sustainability initiatives. Stephen E. Sterrett served as Chairman of the Board from October 2023 until the merger, having joined as a director in 2015.[83] Sterrett, a retired Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Simon Property Group, provided financial and strategic leadership, guiding governance amid Berry's expansion and the impending merger.[94] Under his chairmanship, the board approved significant transactions, such as the 2015 acquisition of Avintiv Inc., which positioned Berry as a global leader in plastics packaging and engineered materials.[27] Post-merger, Sterrett joined Amcor's board as Deputy Chairman. The board featured independent directors with diverse expertise, including Peter T. Thomas, appointed in 2023, who brought extensive finance and operational experience as former Chairman, President, and CEO of Ferro Corporation.[95] Another key member was Idalene F. "Idie" Kesner, a director since 2014, whose background as Dean Emeritus of Indiana University's Kelley School of Business and professor of strategic management contributed to governance and talent development strategies.[96] The board emphasized diversity, with women comprising approximately 30% of members (including Kesner, Jill A. Rahman, and Meredith S. Harper), supporting inclusive decision-making aligned with shareholder interests.[97] In its strategic role, the board approved sustainability policies, including oversight of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives, with regular reporting on progress toward emissions reductions and recycled content goals.[98] Governance practices prioritized ESG integration and shareholder alignment, earning top-decile ratings from Institutional Shareholder Services (ISS) for disclosure quality and governance structure.[99] Following the merger's completion in April 2025, four Berry directors, including Sterrett, integrated into Amcor's expanded 11-member board.[18]

Legal Issues and Controversies

Employment Discrimination Cases

Berry Global has faced several individual lawsuits alleging employment discrimination, primarily involving racial harassment and disability bias at its manufacturing facilities. These cases highlight claims of hostile work environments and improper terminations, with the company consistently defending its actions through human resources protocols and remedial measures. No class action certifications have been granted in these matters.[100][101] In February 2020, former employee Ronald Burns filed a lawsuit against Berry Global in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky, alleging racial discrimination and a hostile work environment under Title VII, 42 U.S.C. § 1981, and the Kentucky Civil Rights Act. Burns, a Black maintenance technician at the company's Franklin, Kentucky facility, claimed he endured severe harassment over 17 days in early 2019, including four incidents involving nooses hung near his workstation, racial slurs written on notes, and a Confederate flag displayed in the workplace. He resigned in March 2019 after finding alternative employment. The district court granted summary judgment to Berry Global in 2021, finding that while the harassment was "heinous," the company took prompt remedial actions, such as investigating each incident, increasing surveillance, disciplining employees, and offering counseling. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit affirmed this ruling in February 2022, emphasizing that Berry's response, though not perfect, was sufficient to avoid liability.[100][101][102] In September 2024, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) filed a lawsuit on behalf of Jasmine Locke against Berry Global in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee, alleging disability discrimination in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Locke, who worked at the company's facility in Ashland City, Tennessee, was terminated in March 2022 after absences related to her major depressive disorder, despite performing her job satisfactorily and requesting accommodations. The EEOC claimed Berry Global regarded Locke as disabled and failed to engage in the interactive process required under the ADA, instead forcing her into unpaid leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act before firing her. The case remains ongoing as of November 2025, with the EEOC seeking back pay, compensatory damages, and injunctive relief to prevent future discrimination.[103][104] In 2025, additional individual lawsuits alleging employment civil rights violations were filed against Berry Global, including Lopez v. Berry Global in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas (filed January 27, 2025) and Holland v. Berry Global in the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas (filed August 22, 2025). These cases, like prior ones, involve claims of discrimination and are ongoing as of November 2025, with no class action status.[105][106] Beyond these, Berry Global has encountered additional disability discrimination claims, including lawsuits under the ADA and state laws alleging inaccessible digital services for users with disabilities. For instance, in December 2022, visually impaired plaintiffs Rusty Rendon and John Panarese sued Berry Global in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, claiming the company's investor relations website (ir.berryglobal.com) violated the ADA and New York State Human Rights Law due to barriers like mislabeled images and unreadable charts. The court dismissed the case in May 2023 for lack of standing, as the plaintiffs could not demonstrate a concrete injury beyond their "tester" status. Other similar accessibility suits have resulted in settlements requiring ADA compliance enhancements, such as website updates, though details on Berry-specific resolutions are limited. These cases, often centered on manufacturing operations, underscore Berry Global's reliance on HR policies for defense, with most resolving through dismissals or out-of-court agreements without certified class actions.[107][108]

Other Regulatory and Civil Matters

In 2024, the Indiana Attorney General's Office issued civil investigative demands (CIDs) to Berry Global Group, Inc., as part of an inquiry into potential labor trafficking involving migrant workers at the company's Evansville facilities.[109] The demands sought documents related to hiring practices and coordination with local immigrant support organizations, amid broader scrutiny of workforce demographics that include a significant number of Haitian migrants.[110] In February 2025, a Vanderburgh Superior Court judge denied Berry Global's motion to quash the CIDs, requiring the company to produce relevant documents.[111] However, in October 2025, the same court ruled against the Attorney General's petition to enforce additional CIDs, limiting further compelled cooperation and marking a partial victory for Berry Global and associated nonprofits.[112] As of November 2025, the matter remains under review with no criminal charges filed against the company.[113] Berry Global has been involved in contract disputes over product quality. In the 2012 case Packgen v. Berry Plastics Corp., a federal jury in the District of Maine found Berry liable for breach of contract and warranty after delivering defective laminated foil materials that caused contamination in Packgen's medical packaging production.[114] The jury awarded Packgen approximately $7.2 million in damages, a verdict affirmed by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit in 2017.[115] In workers' compensation matters, Berry Global faced a 2023 appeal in Louisiana concerning alleged fraud in a benefits claim. In Donald Jenson v. Berry Global Group, Inc., the claimant, a forklift operator injured in a 2019 workplace fall, sought temporary total disability benefits; Berry denied the claim, alleging willful misrepresentation of prior back conditions under Louisiana's fraud forfeiture statute (La. R.S. 23:1208).[116] The Workers' Compensation Judge awarded benefits to Jenson's estate following his unrelated death in 2021, imposing penalties and attorney fees on Berry for unreasonable denial. The Louisiana Court of Appeal, Second Circuit, affirmed the ruling in August 2023, finding no evidence of fraud and upholding the award of $52,976 in benefits, $4,000 in penalties, and $10,000 in fees.[116] On environmental and regulatory compliance, Berry Global has incurred minor fines for emissions violations at U.S. facilities between 2020 and 2024, totaling under $1 million, primarily related to reporting under the Clean Air Act. The company has not faced major litigation over plastic waste management during this period.

References

  1. Berry Global Group | BERY Stock Price, Company Overview & News
  2. Berry Global Group 2025 Company Profile - PitchBook
  3. Berry Global Group Inc Company Profile - Overview - GlobalData
  4. [PDF] ANNUAL REPORT - AnnualReports.com
  5. Berry Global Group, Inc. Joins the Fortune 500 - Amcor
  6. Berry Recognized by Forbes | America's Top Ethical Corporations
  7. Amcor completes acquisition of Berry Global | Packaging Dive
  8. Amcor completes combination with Berry Global
  9. Amcor closes Berry Global merger, reports third quarter result and ...
  10. History of Berry Plastics Corporation – FundingUniverse
  11. Made in Indiana: Plastic cups by Berry Global
  12. Berry Plastics - Syracuse University Libraries Digital Collections
  13. Berry Plastics changing its name to Berry Global - Courier & Press
  14. Berry Plastics revamps brand with new name, logo, values
  15. Berry Global Group, Inc. Joins the Fortune 500 - Beauty Packaging
  16. Amcor Completes Merger with Berry Global Group
  17. 11911 Berry Global Announces Business Structure and Lead - Amcor
  18. Amcor and Berry to combine in all-stock transaction
  19. Berry Global Group Inc - Stock Overview - EquitySet
  20. Amcor completes combination with Berry Global; Positioned to ...
  21. Berry Plastics Corporation - Company-Histories.com
  22. Berry Global celebrates 50th anniversary - Courier & Press
  23. Ira-Boots-helped-Berry-Plastics-soar-and-Milacron-stage-a-comeback
  24. https://archive.courierpress.com/business/berry-plastics-laid-grounds-for-success-years-ago-ep-447588148-324595221.html
  25. [PDF] First Atlantic Capital, JP Morgan Partners and Aetna Sell Berry ...
  26. 7071 Berry Plastics Holding Corporation Announces Propo | Amcor
  27. Berry Plastics to Acquire AVINTIV Inc. Creating Global Leader in ...
  28. Berry Plastics Group announces agreement to acquire AEP Industries
  29. Berry Plastics Raises $471 Million Pricing IPO Low End of Range
  30. Berry Plastics, bolstered by acquisitions, reports record sales
  31. Berry-Plastics-becoming-Berry-Global-Group | Plastics News
  32. How Berry Global is Advancing the Circular Economy - Amcor
  33. Griffon Corporation Completes Sale of Clopay Plastics to Berry ...
  34. Berry Completes Acquisition of CMG Plastics
  35. Berry increases recycled PE use by 36 percent
  36. Recycling bill in Congress calls for 30% recycled content in plastic ...
  37. Berry Global and Mars announce packaging with 100% recycled ...
  38. Amcor and Berry receive European Commission antitrust approval ...
  39. 99.1 - SEC.gov
  40. Acquisition | BERRY GLOBAL GROUP INC | 1st May 2025 - Solactive
  41. Amcor and Berry Global announce important milestone towards ...
  42. berry global group, inc. - SEC.gov
  43. BERRY GLOBAL GROUP, INC.
  44. Berry Global Announces Review of Strategic Alternatives for its ...
  45. https://www.barrons.com/articles/berry-global-stock-can-more-than-double-fund-manager-51603126092
  46. Berry Global Group, Inc. - Evansville Regional Economic Partnership
  47. [PDF] Sustainability Report
  48. Company Highlight: Berry Global | One of five Fortune 500 ...
  49. Berry Global's Supply Chain Transformation - Forbes
  50. Company Spotlight: Berry Global - MidAmerica Industrial Park
  51. PET Bottles & Vials Direct from the Manufacturer | Amcor
  52. Dry Fruit & Retort Pouch & Rice Bag Packaging Manufacturers | Amcor
  53. Berry Global and Printpack Collaborate for Sustainable Flexible ...
  54. Berry increases flexible pouches production - Labels & Labeling
  55. Berry Global and Nestlé Purina PetCare Launch 100% Recycled ...
  56. Berry teams with Coca-Cola to deliver tethered plastic bottle lid
  57. Berry Plastics Corporation - Engineered Materials Division
  58. https://www.uspolypack.com/Berry-Plastics-18-x-1500-80-Gauge-Cast-Stretch-Wrap-Plastic-Pallet-Wrap-Film-Roll4_p_2292.html
  59. Automotive Tape, Filters & Protective Films for Transportation - Amcor
  60. Tapes Manufacturing | Berry Global - Amcor
  61. https://industrialtape.com/brand/berry-global/
  62. Polypropylene Nonwoven Fabric Market Size Report, 2030
  63. RightFit - Berry Global
  64. Berry Global SCS Recycled Content Verified Trash Bags | Staples
  65. BERRY PLASTICS Items for Sale - KLEMS
  66. Duct Tape Market Key Trends
  67. Berry Global (BERY) - The 10th Man Deep Dives
  68. Optym™ Medical Bag Film - Amcor
  69. Berry Global: Medical Packaging and Film with Sealant Technology
  70. Berry Global - Nonwovens Industry -
  71. Berry Global, Inc. - IPqwery
  72. Berry's Dual Chamber Inhaler Enables Access to Combination Drugs
  73. Berry's Smart Digital Closure: Enhancing Medicine Adherence - Amcor
  74. Berry Global Delivers on Anticipated Sustainable Films Demand
  75. Berry Recycling Technology Receives FDA Letter of No Objection
  76. Berry Global, Inc. Announces Hygiene and Healthcare Investment
  77. 14651 Berry Global Appoints Kevin Kwilinski as Chief Exe | Amcor
  78. Berry Global Appoints Kevin Kwilinski as Chief Executive Officer
  79. Berry Global Group Inc: Executives - GlobalData
  80. BERRY GLOBAL GROUP, INC.
  81. Meet The Global Leadership Group | Berry Global - Amcor
  82. Edmund J. Doering - Executive Bio, Work History, and Contacts ...
  83. Berry Global CEO And Leadership: Executives and Demographics
  84. Chief Executive Officer Kevin J. Kwilinski salary at BERRY GLOBAL ...
  85. Berry Global Group: Governance, Directors and Executives ...
  86. Committee Composition | Berry Global Group, Inc. - Investors
  87. Stephen Sterrett - Board Of Director @ Berry Plastics - Crunchbase
  88. Peter Thomas: Positions, Relations and Network - MarketScreener
  89. Idie Kesner: Positions, Relations and Network - MarketScreener
  90. [PDF] environmental, social, & governance report
  91. Berry Global Gains ISS ESG Corporate Rating - Amcor
  92. [PDF] 22a0069n.06 Case No. 21-5359 UNITED STATES COURT OF ...
  93. Berry Global's Response to Nooses, Notes Defeats Harassment Suit
  94. Sixth Circuit Decision Provides Guidance on Properly Managing ...
  95. EEOC Sues Two Companies for Disability Discrimination
  96. Berry Global Hit With EEOC Lawsuit Over Worker's Disability Bias
  97. [PDF] Rendon-v.-Berry-Global-Decision.pdf - ADA Title III
  98. Plaintiff-Friendly New York Courts Change Course in Three Recent ...
  99. Immigration battle looms between AG, Berry Global, local nonprofits
  100. Migrants in Indiana: an opportunity for some, a strain for others
  101. Berry Global loses a round with Indiana Attorney General's Office
  102. Judge gives Berry Global, Haitian Center a win in immigration fight ...
  103. Judge issues blow to Rokita's labor trafficking inquiry - The Indiana ...
  104. Packgen v. Berry Plastics Corp., No. 16-1348 (1st Cir. 2017)
  105. Manufacturer Loses Big Time Twice – to its Customer and to its ...
  106. Donald Jenson v. Berry Global Group, Inc. :: 2023 :: Louisiana Court ...
User Avatar
No comments yet.