IP + DS Smith Combination Supplier Center
You have questions. We have answers.
What to Expect
As International Paper and DS Smith combine to form one global leader in sustainable packaging solutions, we know that our suppliers will have questions. We’re excited about our future, and we hope you are too.
As a trusted supplier, you can expect business as usual with both your IP and DS Smith procurement contacts in the near term. Current procurement arrangements with both International Paper and DS Smith will remain unchanged for the time being, and we’re committed to keeping the lines of communication open with you if and when we make changes.
Questions and Answers
Suppliers
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What will change for suppliers?
Initially there will be no change to the current conditions and arrangements that you have. Over the coming weeks and months, we will be evaluating the best practices amongst the organization and driving to integrate the businesses. As decisions are made that impact our supply base and how we do business we will communicate those as soon as possible.
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Who will be our new contact person?
Your contacts within the joined business will remain the same. Changes in the future, should they arise will be communicated via the normal channels of communication.
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Will your current bank details or legal number (CIF) be changed?
Please note that as we integrate the two organizations, we have no current plans to create new bank accounts or change our banking arrangements.
Unfortunately, fraudsters often use the environment of change around company acquisitions to misappropriate funds from customers and suppliers and so we would therefore ask you to be vigilant. If you are requested to make payments to new accounts, please validate the request via a International Paper or DS Smith contact.
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Where should invoices be sent?
There will be no immediate change to invoicing arrangements. You should continue to send invoices to the same International Paper or DS Smith contacts as you currently do.
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We are a supplier for both International Paper and DS Smith. Which conditions (payment terms, delivery conditions, prices…) will apply?
Current terms and conditions will remain in place for the immediate future.
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Are International Paper / DS Smith contracts or commercial agreements with suppliers going to change? How will they be negotiated and agreed?
Your contracts within the joined business will remain the same and conditions will remain the same. The new combined business will review all current contracts and will be in contact with you to discuss any changes that may be necessary.
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Will we have to sign new contracts?
It is not necessary to sign new contracts for the time being.
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If we have a PO, will it be changed or cancelled?
All current POs remain in place for the time being.
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Do existing NDAs have to be replaced?
In the short term all NDAs will still apply. Over a period of time these will be replaced with new NDAs and the associated supplier on-boarding (pre) qualification process.
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Will consignment stock need to be reassigned to the new company?
Consignment stock will need to be reassigned to the new company and this will be handled after the acquisition has been completed. You will be contacted to agree the process.
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What if I have tenders with both companies?
We will review all current tenders and will contact you to discuss any potential changes.
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Will IT communications systems (JDA, EDI, etc.) remain the same?
For the time being there will be no changes to these systems. Any changes will be communicated to you in a timely manner and implications discussed and agreed with you.
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Will material numbers/name and technical specifications remain the same? In case of differences between International Paper and DS Smith, which one will prevail? How long will it take to harmonize them?
We will review all current materials and specifications and will look to assess any necessary changes. Any changes will be discussed and agreed with you. Timing will vary dependent on the impact of any changes and there is not currently a set time frame to do this within. For now all remains as it is currently.
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Will Paper Logistic Department continue to manage Paper transportation for both International Paper and DS Smith?
In the short term all operations remain as they are. Any potential changes to the operational process will be communicated to you as soon as possible, should there be any.
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Will any existing bank guarantees be changed or replaced?
This will be reviewed, discussed and agreed on a case-by-case basis.