Baker McKenzie has advised Japan Pulp and Paper Co. Ltd on its proposed acquisition for A$74,949,600 of a 51% interest in a newly formed entity, known as PagePack.  PagePack comprises two previously separate wholesale paper, packaging and industrial products distribution businesses operated by the BJ Ball and the KW Doggett groups in Australia and New Zealand.  Japan Pulp and Paper Co. Ltd is a Tokyo Stock Exchange-listed market leader engaged in the distribution of paper and paper-related products.

Completion of this transaction is subject to customary conditions, including regulator approvals.

Japan Pulp and Paper Co. Ltd was advised by Baker McKenzie teams in Tokyo (led by Kiyoshi Endo, Satoshi Abe and Tatsuya Niwa) and Sydney (led by Lawrence Mendes and Ben McLaughlin).

Kiyoshi Endo, partner, stated: "We are delighted to act for our client, Japan Pulp and Paper Co. Ltd on its proposed acquisition of a 51% interest in PagePack. The transaction involved our legal teams in Tokyo and Sydney working to tight timeframes for a successful outcome."  Ben McLaughlin, partner, added:  "The transaction has been complex as it combines three groups.  We look forward to working with our Tokyo colleagues and other advisers to bring the transaction to a successful conclusion."