Marietta, Ga. - Graphic Packaging International, Inc., a subsidiary of Graphic Packaging Holding Company, today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire substantially all of the assets and business of Sierra Pacific Packaging, Inc., a producer of folding cartons, beverage carriers and corrugated boxes for the consumer packaged goods industry. This acquisition will provide Graphic Packaging with a strategic location to service customers on the West Coast.

Completion of the transaction is expected to occur during the second quarter of 2011.

"Graphic Packaging has a strong record of achieving performance improvement objectives and of successfully integrating businesses," said Graphic Packaging International President and CEO David Scheible. "This is an exciting opportunity for Graphic Packaging, Sierra Pacific, and our customers. This acquisition not only provides our customers with important enhanced operating synergies, but  Sierra's  values, vision and culture of sustainability dovetail nicely with our own growth strategy for the future."

"Sierra Pacific Packaging is one of the largest local employers in Oroville, California and is a leader in sustainability practices -- producing beverage carriers made from 100% recycled materials," said Sierra Pacific Packaging CEO Allen Ennis.  "Graphic Packaging has a strong management team with a deep understanding of our customers' needs. We are excited to work with David Scheible and his leadership team to successfully combine our operations with Graphic Packaging."