MEMPHIS, TN — International Paper announced it has reached a definitive merger agreement with Temple-Inland Inc. and will acquire all of the composite panel and packaging manufacturer's outstanding common stock for $32.00 per share in cash, plus the assumption of $600 million in Temple-Inland's year-end debt. The total transaction value is approximately $4.3 billion.

The transaction is expected to be finalized in the first quarter of 2012.

In a statement, IP Chairman and CEO John Faraci said, "The strategic benefits of this combination are clear and we are pleased to be able to move forward on terms that are financially attractive for both sets of shareholders. Acquiring Temple-Inland enhances our ability to generate additional cash flow while maintaining our strong balance sheet. We look forward to working with the employees of Temple-Inland as we integrate our businesses and create an even stronger company with substantial benefits for our customers, employees and shareholders."

The combination is expected to yield synergies of approximately $300 million annually within 24 months of closing, derived primarily from the areas of operations, freight, logistics, selling expense and overhead.