gpk-20221231

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UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

Form 10-K


☑			ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
			For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022
or
☐			TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
			For the transition period from to

COMMISSION FILE NUMBER: 001-33988

Graphic Packaging Holding Company

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)


Delaware		26-0405422
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)		(I.R.S. employer identification no.)
1500 Riveredge Parkway, Suite 100
Atlanta,	Georgia	30328
(Address of principal executive offices)		(Zip Code)

(770) 240-7200

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:


Title of Each Class	Trading Symbol(s)	Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered
Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share	GPK	New York Stock Exchange

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes ☑ No ☐

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes ☐ No ☑

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ☑ No ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes ☑ No ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company” and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer

☑

Accelerated filer

☐

Smaller reporting company

☐

Non-accelerated filer

☐

(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

Emerging growth company

☐

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. Yes ☑ No ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes ☐ No ☑

The aggregate market value of voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates at June 30, 2022 was approximately $6.3 billion.

As of February 8, 2023 there were approximately 307,122,132 shares of the registrant’s Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share outstanding.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE:

Portions of the registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement for the 2023 Annual Meeting of Stockholders are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS OF FORM 10-K


INFORMATION CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS		3
	PART I
ITEM 1.	BUSINESS	4
ITEM 1A.	RISK FACTORS	13
ITEM 1B.	UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS	17
ITEM 2.	PROPERTIES	17
ITEM 3.	LEGAL PROCEEDINGS	19
ITEM 4.	MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES	19
	EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT	20
	PART II
ITEM 5.	MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES	21
ITEM 6.	[RESERVED]	23
ITEM 7 .	MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS	24
ITEM 7 A.	QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK	37
ITEM 8 .	FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA	39
ITEM 9 .	CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE	88
ITEM 9 A.	CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES	88
ITEM 9 B.	OTHER INFORMATION	88
ITEM 9C.	DISCLOSURE REGARDING FOREIGN JURISDICTIONS THAT PREVENT INSPECTIONS	88
	PART III
ITEM 10.	DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE	89
ITEM 1 1 .	EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION	89
ITEM 1 2 .	SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS	89
ITEM 1 3 .	CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE	89
ITEM 1 4 .	PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES	89
	PART IV
ITEM 1 5 .	EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES	90
ITEM 16.	FORM 10-K SUMMARY	95
SIGNATURES		96

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INFORMATION CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain statements regarding the expectations of Graphic Packaging Holding Company (“GPHC” and, together with its subsidiaries, the “Company”), including, but not limited to, pension and postretirement healthcare benefit plan contributions, the re-classification of gain from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss to earnings, the timing of the sale of its operations in Russia, ESG benefits from the K2 paper machine investment, capital investment, and depreciation and amortization in this report constitute “forward-looking statements” as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements are based on currently available operating, financial and competitive information and are subject to various risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company’s historical experience and its present expectations. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the continuing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Company's operations and business, inflation of and volatility in raw material and energy costs, changes in consumer buying habits and product preferences, competition with other paperboard manufacturers and converters, product substitution, the Company’s ability to implement its business strategies, including strategic acquisitions, the Company's ability to successfully integrate acquisitions, productivity initiatives and cost reduction plans, the Company’s debt level, currency movements and other risks of conducting business internationally, and the impact of regulatory and litigation matters, including those that could impact the Company’s ability to utilize its U.S. federal income tax attributes to offset taxable income or U.S. federal income taxes and those that impact the Company's ability to protect and use its intellectual property. Undue reliance should not be placed on such forward-looking statements, as such statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and the Company undertakes no obligation to update such statements, except as may be required by law.

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PART I

ITEM 1.BUSINESS

Overview

Graphic Packaging Holding Company (“GPHC” and, together with its subsidiaries, the “Company”) is committed to providing consumer packaging that makes a world of difference. The Company, a leading fiber-based consumer packaging provider, serves the world’s most widely-recognized food, beverage, foodservice and other consumer products companies and brands. The Company operates on a global basis, is one of the largest producers of folding cartons and fiber-based foodservice products in the United States ("U.S.") and Europe, and holds leading market positions in coated-recycled paperboard ("CRB"), coated unbleached kraft paperboard ("CUK") and solid bleached sulfate paperboard ("SBS").

The Company’s customers include many of the world’s most widely recognized companies and brands with prominent market positions in beverage, food, foodservice and other consumer products. The Company strives to provide its customers with innovative, fiber-based packaging solutions designed to deliver marketing and performance benefits at a competitive cost by capitalizing on its low-cost paperboard mills and global packaging network, its proprietary carton and packaging designs, and its commitment to quality, service, and environmental stewardship.

On January 1, 2018, GPHC, a Delaware corporation, International Paper Company, a New York corporation (“IP”), Graphic Packaging International Partners, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company formerly known as Gazelle Newco LLC and a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company (“GPIP”), and Graphic Packaging International, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company formerly known as Graphic Packaging International, Inc. and a direct subsidiary of GPIP (“GPIL”), completed a series of transactions pursuant to an agreement dated October 23, 2017, among the foregoing parties (the “Transaction Agreement”). Pursuant to the Transaction Agreement (i) a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company transferred its ownership interest in GPIL to GPIP; (ii) IP transferred its North America Consumer Packaging (“NACP”) business to GPIP, which was then subsequently transferred to GPIL; (iii) GPIP issued membership interests to IP, and IP was admitted as a member of GPIP; and (iv) GPIL assumed certain indebtedness of IP (the "NACP Combination").

During 2020, GPIP purchased 32.5 million partnership units from IP for $500 million in cash, fully redeeming the 18.2 million partnership units that were required to be redeemed in cash. On February 16, 2021, the Company announced that IP had notified the Company of its intent to exchange additional partnership units. Per an agreement between the parties, on February 19, 2021, GPIP purchased 9.3 million partnership units from IP for $150 million in cash, and IP exchanged 15.3 million partnership units for an equivalent number of shares of GPHC common stock. On May 21, 2021, IP exchanged its remaining 22.8 million partnership units for an equivalent number of shares of GPHC common stock. As required by the parties' agreement, these shares were immediately sold by IP. As a result, IP has no ownership interest remaining in GPIP as of May 21, 2021.

As a result of IP’s final exchange in 2021, the Company currently owns 100% of the outstanding interests in GPIP. GPIP continued to be treated as a partnership for U.S. federal and state income tax purposes despite IP’s exit as a minority partner until September 1, 2022, when, due to an internal restructuring, GPIP became a single member limited liability company, terminating the partnership for income tax purposes.

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Acquisitions, Closures, and Dispositions

The Company has successfully completed several acquisitions in the past three years and expects to pursue strategic acquisition opportunities in the future as part of its overall growth strategy.

2022

In May 2022, the Company closed the Battle Creek, MI CRB mill. For more information, see "Note 18 - Exit Activities" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included herein under “Item 8., Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

In May 2022, the Company committed to sell its two folding carton plants in Russia and classified the facilities as held for sale, resulting in impairment charges of $96 million in 2022, including $12 million of goodwill impairment. For more information, see "Note 19 - Impairment and Divestiture of Russian Business" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included herein under “Item 8., Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

In September 2022, the Company closed its Norwalk, Ohio carton facility, which it had announced to close in March 2022. For more information, see "Note 18 - Exit Activities" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included herein under “Item 8., Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

2021

On July 1, 2021, the Company acquired substantially all the assets of Americraft Carton, Inc. (“Americraft”), the largest independent folding carton converter in North America. The acquisition included seven converting plants across the United States and is reported within the Americas Paperboard Packaging reportable segment. For more information, see "Note 4 - Business Combinations" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included herein under “Item 8., Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

On November 1, 2021, the Company acquired all the shares of AR Packaging Group AB ("AR Packaging"), Europe's second largest producer of fiber-based consumer packaging. The acquisition included 30 converting plants in 13 countries and is reported within the Europe Paperboard Packaging reportable segment. For more information, see "Note 4 - Business Combinations" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included herein under “Item 8., Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

2020

On January 31, 2020, the Company acquired a folding carton facility from Quad/Graphics, Inc. ("Quad"), a commercial printing company. The converting facility is located in Omaha, Nebraska and is included in the Americas Paperboard Packaging reportable segment. For more information, see "Note 1 - Nature of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included herein under “Item 8., Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

In March 2020, the Company made the decision to close the White Pigeon, Michigan CRB mill and to shut down the PM1 containerboard machine in West Monroe, Louisiana. During the second quarter of 2020, the Company closed the White Pigeon, Michigan CRB mill and shut down the PM1 containerboard machine. For more information, see "Note 1 - Nature of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included herein under “Item 8., Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

On April 1, 2020, the Company acquired the Consumer Packaging Group business from Greif, Inc. ("Greif"), a leader in industrial packaging products and services. The acquisition included seven converting plants across the United States, which are included in the Americas Paperboard Packaging reportable segment. For more information, see "Note 1 - Nature of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included herein under “Item 8., Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

In June 2020, the Company made the decision to close certain converting plants that were acquired from Greif. The Burlington, North Carolina converting facility and the Los Angeles, California converting facility were closed during 2020. For more information, see "Note 1 - Nature of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included herein under “Item 8., Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

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Share Repurchases and Dividends

On January 28, 2019, the Company's board of directors authorized a share repurchase program to allow the Company to purchase up to $500 million of the Company's issued and outstanding shares of common stock through open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions and Rule 10b5-1 plans (the "2019 share repurchase program").

Share repurchases are reflected as a reduction of common stock for the par value of the shares, with any excess of share repurchase price over par value allocated between capital in excess of par value and retained earnings.

The following presents the Company's share repurchases for the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021, and 2020:



Amount repurchased in millions, except share and per share amounts	Amount Repurchased		Number of Shares Repurchased	Average Price per Share

2022	$	28	1,315,839	$	20.91
2021	$	—	—	$	—
2020	$	316	23,420,010	$	13.48

At December 31, 2022, the Company had $119 million available for additional repurchases under the 2019 share purchase program.

During 2022 and 2021, the Company paid cash dividends of $92 million and $87 million, respectively.

On September 22, 2022, the Company's board of directors voted to increase the quarterly dividend to $0.10 per share of common stock, a 33% increase from the prior quarterly dividend of $0.075. The dividend was paid on January 5, 2023, to common stockholders of record at the close of business on December 15, 2022.

Products

The Company has three reportable segments as follows:

Paperboard Mills includes the seven North American paperboard mills that produce primarily CRB, CUK, and SBS, which is consumed internally to produce paperboard packaging for the Americas and Europe Packaging segments. Paperboard not consumed internally is sold externally to a wide variety of paperboard packaging converters and brokers. The Paperboard Mills segment Net Sales represent the sale of paperboard only to external customers. The effect of intercompany transfers to the paperboard packaging segments has been eliminated from the Paperboard Mills segment to reflect the economics of the integration of these segments.

Americas Paperboard Packaging includes paperboard packaging, primarily folding cartons, sold primarily to consumer packaged goods ("CPG") companies, and cups, lids and food containers sold primarily to foodservice companies and quick-service restaurants ("QSR"), serving the food, beverage, and consumer product markets in the Americas.

Europe Paperboard Packaging includes paperboard packaging, primarily folding cartons, sold primarily to CPG companies serving the food, beverage and consumer product markets including healthcare and beauty primarily in Europe.

The Company operates in three geographic areas: the Americas, Europe and Asia Pacific.

For reportable segment and geographic area information for each of the last three fiscal years, see "Note 15 - Business Segment and Geographic Area Information" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included herein under “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data."

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Paperboard Packaging

The Company’s paperboard packaging products deliver brand, marketing, sustainability, and performance benefits at a competitive cost. The Company supplies paperboard cartons, carriers and containers designed to protect and hold products while providing:

• Convenience through ease of carrying, storage, delivery, dispensing of product, and food preparation for consumers;

• A smooth surface printed with high-resolution, multi-color graphic images that help improve brand awareness and visibility of products on store shelves; and

• Durability, stiffness and wet and dry tear strength; leak, abrasion and heat resistance; barrier protection from moisture, oxygen, oils and greases, as well as enhanced microwave heating performance.

The Company provides a wide range of innovative, paperboard packaging solutions for the following end-use markets:

• Beverage, including beer, seltzer, soft drinks, energy drinks, teas, water and juices;

• Food, including cereal, desserts, frozen, refrigerated and microwavable foods, pet food;

• Prepared food and drinks, including snacks, quick-serve food and drinks for restaurants and food service providers;

• Household products, including dishwasher and laundry detergent, health care and beauty aids, and tissues and papers;

• Air filter frames; and

• Health and beauty.

The Company’s packaging applications meet the needs of its customers for:

Strength Packaging. The Company's products provide sturdiness to meet a variety of packaging, handling, and delivery needs, including tear and wet strength, puncture resistance, durability and compression strength (providing the ability to ship products in their own branded carton and stacking strength to meet store display packaging requirements).

Promotional Packaging. The Company offers a broad range of promotional packaging options that help differentiate its customers’ products in the marketplace. These promotional enhancements improve brand awareness and visibility on store shelves.

Convenience and Cooking Packaging. These packaging solutions improve package usage and food preparation:

• Beverage multiple-packaging — multi-packs for beer, soft drinks, energy drinks, teas, water and juices;

• Active microwave technologies — packages that improve the heating and browning of foods in the microwave; and

• Easy opening and closing features — dispensing features, pour spouts and sealable liners.

Barrier Packaging. The Company provides packages that protect against moisture, temperature (hot and cold), grease, oil, oxygen, sunlight, insects and other potential product-damaging factors.

Paperboard Mills and Packaging Operations Facilities

The Company produces paperboard at its mills; prints, cuts, folds, and glues (“converts”) the paperboard into folding cartons and containers at its converting plants; and designs and manufactures specialized, proprietary packaging machines that package bottles and cans and, to a lesser extent, non-beverage consumer products. The Company also installs its packaging machines at customer plants and provides support, service and advanced performance monitoring of the machines.

The Company offers a variety of laminated, coated and printed packaging structures that are produced from its CRB, CUK and SBS board grades, as well as other grades of paperboard that are purchased from third-party suppliers.

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Below is the production at each of the Company’s paperboard mills during 2022:


Location	Product	# of Machines	2022 Net Tons Produced
West Monroe, LA	CUK	2	911,919
Macon, GA	CUK	2	729,842
Augusta, GA	SBS	2	605,596
Texarkana, TX	SBS	2	575,011
Kalamazoo, MI	CRB	3	904,790
Middletown, OH	CRB	1	169,407
East Angus, Québec	CRB	1	101,850
Battle Creek, MI(a)	CRB	2	77,709

(a) Closed in the second quarter of 2022.

The Company consumes most of its coated board output in its converting operations, which is an integral part of the customer value proposition. In 2022, approximately 73.4% of combined mill production of CRB, CUK and SBS was consumed internally.

CUK Production. The Company is the largest of four worldwide producers of CUK. CUK is manufactured from pine-based wood fiber and is a specialized high-quality grade of coated paperboard with excellent wet and dry tear strength characteristics and printability for high resolution graphics that make it particularly well-suited for a variety of packaging applications. Both wood and recycled fibers are pulped, formed on paper machines, and clay-coated to provide an excellent printing surface for superior quality graphics and appearance characteristics.

SBS Production. The Company is one of the largest North American producers of SBS. SBS is manufactured from bleached pine and hardwood-based wood fiber and is the highest quality paperboard substrate with excellent wet and dry strength characteristics and superior printability for high-end packaging. Both wood and recycled fibers are pulped, formed on paper machines, and clay-coated to provide an excellent printing surface for superior quality graphics and appearance characteristics. SBS is also coated with resin for wet strength liquid and food packaging end uses.

CRB Production. The Company is the largest North American producer of CRB. CRB is manufactured entirely from recycled fibers, primarily old corrugated containers (“OCC”), doubled-lined kraft cuttings from corrugated box plants (“DLK”), old newspapers (“ONP”), and box cuttings from converting plants, and office and mixed paper bales. The recycled fibers are re-pulped, formed on paper machines, and clay-coated to provide an excellent printing surface for superior quality graphics and appearance characteristics.

The Company converts CRB, CUK and SBS, as well as other grades of paperboard, into cartons and containers at converting plants the Company operates in various locations globally, including a converting plant associated with the Company's joint venture in Japan, and at licensees outside the United States ("U.S."). The converting plants print, cut, fold and glue paperboard into cartons and containers designed to meet customer specifications.

Joint Venture

The Company, through its GPIL subsidiary, is a party to a Japanese joint venture, Rengo Riverwood Packaging, Ltd., in which it holds a 50% ownership interest. The joint venture agreement covers CUK supply, use of proprietary carton designs and marketing and distribution of packaging systems.

Sales and Marketing

The Company markets its products principally to multinational beverage, food, quick-service restaurants ("QSR"), health/beauty and other well-recognized consumer product companies. The beverage companies include Anheuser-Busch, Inc., MillerCoors LLC, PepsiCo, Inc. and The Coca-Cola Company, among others. Consumer product customers include Kraft Heinz Company, General Mills, Inc., Nestlé USA, Inc., Kellogg Company, Kimberly-Clark Corporation, among others. Quick-service restaurants ("QSR") customers include Chick-fil-A, McDonald's, Wendy's, Panda Express, Dairy Queen, Chipotle, Panera and KFC. Health/beauty include GlaxoSmithKline, Bayer, Johnson & Johnson, Abbott, Novartis, L’Oréal S.A., Proctor & Gamble, and Colgate. The Company also sells paperboard in the open market to independent and integrated paperboard converters.

Sales of the Company’s principal products is primarily accomplished through sales offices in the U.S., Australia, Brazil, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Spain, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom, and, to a lesser degree, through broker arrangements with third parties.

During 2022, 2021 and 2020, the Company did not have any one customer that represented 10% or more of its net sales.

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Competition

Although a relatively small number of large competitors hold a significant portion of the paperboard packaging market, the Company’s business is subject to strong competition. The Company and WestRock Company ("WestRock") are the two major CUK producers in the U.S. Internationally, The Klabin Company in Brazil and Stora Enso in Sweden produce similar grades of paperboard.

In non-beverage consumer packaging and foodservice, the Company’s paperboard competes with WestRock's CUK, as well as CRB and SBS from numerous competitors, and, internationally, folding boxboard and white-lined chip. There are a large number of producers in the paperboard markets. Suppliers of paperboard compete primarily on the basis of price, strength and printability of their paperboard, quality and service.

In beverage packaging, cartons made from CUK compete with substitutes such as plastics and corrugated packaging for packaging glass or plastic bottles, cans and other primary containers. Although plastics and corrugated packaging may be priced lower than CUK, the Company believes that cartons made from CUK offer advantages over these materials in areas such as recyclability (versus plastic alternatives), design flexibility, distribution, brand awareness, carton designs, package performance and package line speed.

Raw Materials

The paperboard packaging produced by the Company comes from pine and hardwood trees and recycled fibers. Pine pulpwood, hardwood pulp, paper and recycled fibers (including DLK, OCC and ONP) and energy used in the manufacture of paperboard, as well as poly sheeting, plastic resins and various chemicals used in the coating of paperboard, represent the largest components of the Company’s variable costs of paperboard production.

For the West Monroe, LA, Macon, GA, Texarkana, TX, and Augusta, GA mills, the Company relies on private landowners and the open market for all of its pine and hardwood pulp and recycled fiber requirements, supplemented by clippings that are obtained from its packaging operations. The Company follows a due diligence process to ensure virgin fiber inputs are sourced from sustainability managed forests and do not contribute towards deforestation or habit loss for ecosystems with high conservation value. The Company believes that adequate supplies from both private landowners and open market fiber sellers currently are available in close proximity to meet its fiber needs at these mills.

The paperboard grades produced at the Kalamazoo, MI, Battle Creek, MI, Middletown, OH, and East Angus, Quebec mills are made from 100% recycled fiber. The Company procures its recycled fiber from external suppliers and internal converting operations. The market price of each of the various recycled fiber grades fluctuates with supply and demand. The Company’s internal recycled fiber procurement function enables the Company to pay lower prices for its recycled fiber needs given the Company’s highly fragmented supplier base. The Company believes there are adequate supplies of recycled fiber to serve its mills.

In North America, the Company also converts a variety of other paperboard grades, in addition to paperboard that is supplied to its packaging operations from its own mills. The Company purchases such paperboard requirements, including additional CRB and SBS, from outside vendors. The majority of external paperboard purchases are acquired through long-term arrangements with other major industry suppliers. The Company's European packaging operations consume CUK supplied from the Company's mills and also convert other paperboard grades such as white-lined chip and folding box board purchased from external suppliers.

Energy

Energy, including natural gas, fuel, oil and electricity, represents a significant portion of the Company’s manufacturing and distribution costs. The Company has entered into contracts designed to manage risks associated with future variability in cash flows and price risk related to future energy cost increases for a portion of its natural gas requirements at its U.S. mills. The Company’s hedging program for natural gas is discussed in "Note 10 - Financial Instruments, Derivatives and Hedging Activities" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included herein under “Item 8., Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

Seasonality

The Company’s net sales, income from operations and cash flows from operations are subject to moderate seasonality, with demand usually increasing in the late spring through early fall due to increases in demand for beverage and food products.

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Research and Development

The Company’s research and development team works directly with its sales, marketing and consumer insights personnel to understand long-term consumer and retailer trends and create relevant new packaging. These innovative solutions provide customers with differentiated packaging to meet consumer preferences. The Company’s development efforts include, but are not limited to, developing fiber-based packaging alternatives to replace plastic packaging; extending the shelf life of customers’ products; reducing production and waste costs; enhancing the heat-managing characteristics of food packaging; improving the sturdiness and compression strength of packaging to allow goods to ship in their own branded container and to meet store display needs; and refining packaging appearance through new printing techniques and materials.

Consumer concerns regarding the growing plastic packaging waste problem represents one of the strongest trends in the packaging industry, and the Company focuses on developing innovative, fiber-based consumer packaging solutions that are recyclable and help customers achieve their packaging sustainability goals. The Company’s strategy is to combine functionality and innovative packaging design with a focus on packaging end of life to create circular packaging solutions for customers and consumers.

For more information on research and development expenses see "Note 1 - Nature of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included herein under “Item 8., Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

Patents and Trademarks

As of December 31, 2022, the Company had a large patent portfolio, presently owning, controlling or holding rights to more than 2,600 U.S. and foreign patents, with more than 600 U.S. and foreign patent applications currently pending. The Company’s patent portfolio consists primarily of patents relating to packaging machinery, manufacturing methods, structural carton designs, active microwave packaging technology and barrier protection packaging. These patents and processes are significant to the Company’s operations and are supported by trademarks such as Fridge Vendor™, IntegraPak™, KeelClip™, MicroFlex-Q™, MicroRite™, Quilt Wave™, Qwik Crisp™, Tite-Pak™, and Z-Flute™. The Company takes significant steps to protect its intellectual property and proprietary rights.

Human Capital

We believe that the Company’s greatest asset is our workforce. Solving day-to-day operational and business challenges in order to drive positive results for stakeholders requires attracting, developing, and retaining talented individuals with different skills, ideas, and experiences. Our Vision 2025 outlines how we will be better stewards of our planet, supporters of our people, and allies to our partners, all while generating returns for our stakeholders. Our employees play a crucial role in achieving our Vision 2025 and are guided by our shared values and growth behaviors.

Our people are one of the pillars of our Vision 2025 and we strive to engage employees in a high-performance culture. In order to achieve this, we must attract, develop, and retain our talented workforce by providing opportunities for growth and a conducive atmosphere. Our talent acquisition, development, succession and diversity and inclusion strategies are all critical components of the multi-year plan for our people. We will continue to invest in capability development areas that serve as a competitive advantage for the Company such as GPI University, which launched in 2021 and serves as a platform for employees to access relevant training and development resources on topics related to technical skills and leadership effectiveness. Also, central to capability development and talent management is challenging our team with new experiences that will enhance their leadership skills and technical capabilities. We continuously improve our processes and use technology to promote safety, automate our manufacturing processes, and achieve greater efficiencies utilizing processes such as Lean Six Sigma.

We are enhancing the capabilities of our workforce as our business and strategy evolve. We have invested in innovation, research and development, and digital capabilities to position us to capture organic sales growth supported by consumer preferences for low impact, recyclable packaging. As our business continues to evolve, we will adapt our workforce and invest in employees to ensure that we have the necessary human capital capabilities in place to support our growth strategy.

As of December 31, 2022, the Company had approximately 24,000 employees based in 130 locations in 26 different countries around the world. Approximately 67% of our employees are in the Americas and 33% are in Europe and the rest of the world. Approximately 62% of our employees were represented by labor unions and covered by collective bargaining agreements or covered by works councils in Europe. As of December 31, 2022, 1,194 of the Company’s employees were working under expired contracts, which are currently being negotiated, and 2,055 were covered under collective bargaining agreements that expire within one year. The Company considers its employee relations to be satisfactory.

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Employee Health and Safety

Maintaining a safe work environment is vital to the Company, and we are committed to the health, safety and wellness of our employees. Our Total Recordable Incident Rate, which is the annual rate of workplace injuries per 100 full-time employees, is 1.0, and we work to maintain a safety performance rating that outperforms the industry average. We strive to achieve an injury-free workplace through various safety initiatives and programs.

Diversity and Inclusion

We believe that a diverse and inclusive working environment encourages creativity, innovation, and collaboration and that a diverse and inclusive culture propels our ability to serve our global customers and communities. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is reflected in the definitions of our core values, which dictate our behavioral norms. The Compensation and Management Development Committee of our Board of Directors annually reviews the processes and practices related to workforce diversity and inclusion programs to ensure continued equitable treatment of all employees and a culture of inclusion. Our goal moving forward is to not only mirror the diversity of the communities where we operate, but also to excel in unlocking the potential that a diverse workforce can generate.

Community Engagement

Building connections between our employees, their families, and our communities creates a more meaningful, fulfilling and enjoyable workplace. Our employees around the world dedicate their time and talents to improve the communities in which we live and work. Driven by our core values, making a difference for our customers, our consumers, and our community is at the root of our community engagement strategy. The Company focuses on three pillars that guide the strategy for our community service activities and philanthropic commitments: (1) putting food on the table, (2) preserving the environment, and (3) investing in education.

Environmental and Regulatory Matters

The Company is subject to a broad range of foreign, federal, state and local environmental, health and safety, and other governmental regulations and employs a team of professionals in order to maintain compliance at each of its facilities. In 2022, the Company spent $9 million of capital on projects to maintain compliance with environmental laws, regulations and the Company’s permits granted thereunder. In 2023 and 2024, the Company estimates it will spend $30 million and $23 million respectively, for such projects, primarily the waste water treatment system upgrades at the Augusta, Georgia mill. For additional information on such regulation and compliance, see “Environmental Matters” in “Item 7., Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and "Note 14 - Environmental and Legal Matters" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included herein under “Item 8., Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

Climate change presents both challenges and opportunities for the Company and its communities. Climate change challenges for the Company are likely to be driven by changes in the physical climate where our facilities are located, as well as changes in laws and regulations, including restrictions on greenhouse gas ("GHG") emissions, cap and trade systems, and taxes on GHG emissions, fuel, and energy. Climate change also presents opportunities for the Company as it drives growth in demand for lower-carbon footprint products and manufacturing technologies. We believe the Company is well-positioned to take advantage of opportunities that may arise from increased consumer demand for and/or legislation mandating or incentivizing the use of products and technologies necessary to achieve a lower-carbon, lower-waste economy. Our costs of complying with complex environmental laws and regulations, as well as voluntary certification and disclosure programs, are significant and will continue to be significant for the foreseeable future. These laws and regulations and stakeholder driven voluntary certification and disclosure programs could become more stringent over time, which could result in significant additional compliance costs. Additionally, significant national or state differences in the imposition and enforcement of such laws and regulations could present competitive challenges in a global marketplace. By tracking and taking action to reduce our GHG emissions and energy use through efficiency programs and focused GHG management efforts, we can decrease the potential future impact of these regulatory matters.

The Company’s Core Values underpin our commitment to our stakeholders and our strategy to deliver sustainable, recyclable packaging solutions. Our Vision 2025 outlines our plans for how we will grow the Company and the returns we expect to generate, all while prioritizing and focusing on our people and the planet. These goals are designed to position us for sustainably-achieved, long-term earnings growth.

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Available Information

The Company’s website is located at http://www.graphicpkg.com. The Company makes available, free of charge through its website, its Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as soon as reasonably practicable after such materials are electronically filed or furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). The Company also makes certain investor presentations and access to analyst conference calls, as well as certain environmental, social, and governance information available through its website. The information contained or incorporated into the Company’s website is not a part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

The SEC maintains an Internet website that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers like the Company that file electronically with the SEC at http://www.SEC.gov.

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ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

Our operations and financial results could be affected by various risks, many of which are beyond our control. The following risks could affect (and in some cases have affected) the Company's actual results and could cause such results to differ materially from current estimates or expectations:

Industry Risks

The Company's financial results could be adversely impacted if there are significant increases in prices for raw materials, energy, transportation and other necessary supplies and services, and the Company is unable to raise prices or improve productivity to reduce costs.

Increases in the costs of raw materials, including secondary fiber, petroleum-based materials, energy, wood, transportation and other necessary goods and services, could have an adverse effect on the Company's financial results. Paper manufacturing processes require significant energy and raw materials, the costs of which are subject to worldwide supply and demand factors, supply chain disruptions that can affect availability and result in increased prices, as well as trade regulations and tariffs, GHG emissions-based regulations, and other factors beyond our control. Variations in the cost of energy, which primarily reflect market prices for oil and natural gas, and for raw materials may significantly affect our operating results from period to period. Because negotiated sales contracts and the market largely determine the pricing for its products, the Company is at times limited in its ability to raise prices and pass through to its customers any inflationary or other cost increases that the Company may incur.

The Company uses productivity improvements and other initiatives to reduce costs, offset inflation and maintain adequate raw material supplies. These actions include global continuous improvement initiatives that use best-in-class industry methodologies and statistical process control to help design and manage many types of activities, including planning, procurement, production and maintenance. These efforts result not only in cost reductions, but also build resilience in the overall supply chain. The Company's ability to realize anticipated savings from these improvements is subject to significant operational, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond the Company's control. If the Company cannot successfully implement cost savings plans, it may not be able to continue to compete successfully against other manufacturers. In addition, any failure to generate the anticipated efficiencies and savings could adversely affect the Company's financial results.

Changes in buying habits and preferences for products by customers and consumers could have an effect on our sales volumes.

Changing dietary habits and preferences have impacted sales growth for many of the food and beverage products the Company packages. Customer and consumer preferences are constantly changing based on, among other factors, the economy, convenience, cost and health considerations, as well as environmental and social concerns, and perceptions, such as pressure to reduce packaging waste by switching to reusable containers versus single-use packaging options. If these trends continue and the Company is unable to adapt to the trends, then the Company’s financial results could be adversely affected.

Competition and product substitution could have an adverse effect on the Company's financial results.

The Company competes with other paperboard manufacturers and carton converters, both domestically and internationally. The Company's products compete with those made from other manufacturers' CUK, as well as SBS, FBB, and CRB, and other board substrates. Substitute products include plastic, shrink film, corrugated containers, biobased materials and other packaging options. Product substitution may occur in response to price, quality and service issues, as well as environmental and social concerns, such as pressure to reduce packaging waste by switching to reusable containers versus single-use packaging options and the use of recycled post-consumer plastic and biobased materials in the production process.

In addition, to the extent the Company’s operations are subject to labor, safety and climate change regulations and requirements not stringently imposed in the states and countries in which our competitors operate, our competitors could gain cost or other competitive advantages. While the Company has long-term relationships with many of its customers, the underlying contracts may be re-bid or renegotiated from time to time, and the Company may not be successful in renewing such contracts on favorable terms or at all. The Company works to maintain market share through efficiency, product innovations and strategic sourcing to its customers; however pricing and other competitive pressures, such as providing the lowest-carbon footprint packaging solution or delivering on GHG emissions reduction targets, may occasionally result in the loss of a customer relationship.

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Operational Risks

The Company could experience material disruptions at our facilities, that could adversely impact the Company's financial results and could increase the cost of insurance and level of deductibles.

Although the Company takes appropriate measures to minimize the risk and effect of material disruptions to the business conducted at our facilities, natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, heat waves, freezing events, floods, droughts, fires and other extreme weather events, (all of which may be exacerbated by climate change), as well as other unexpected disruptions such as the unavailability of critical raw materials, power outages and equipment breakdowns or failures can reduce production and increase manufacturing costs. These types of disruptions, whether caused by climate change or other events, could materially adversely affect our earnings, depending upon the duration of the disruption and our ability to shift business to other facilities or find other sources of materials or energy. In addition, given the Company's integrated supply chain, managing board supply and properly planning for mill outages and downtime must be integrated with the converting plants’ forecasts. Any inability to do so could adversely affect the Company's financial results. Any losses due to these events may not be covered by our existing insurance policies, and insurance coverage may be subject to significant deductibles. The premiums for insurance coverage have recently increased and may continue to increase, along with the level of deductibles.

Preparedness plans have been developed for vulnerable facilities and detail the actions needed in the event of unforeseen events or severe weather. We also obtain insurance coverage to mitigate losses from physical damages and business interruptions. These measures have historically been in place, and such activities and associated costs are driven by normal operational preparedness. However, there can be no assurance that such measures will be effective for a particular event that we may experience.

In addition to the possible disruptions to our facilities' production as discussed above, because approximately 62% of the Company's employees are represented by unions, the Company could experience disruptions such as work slowdowns or strikes from time to time. If the Company is unable to prevent prolonged interruptions of the Company's operations at any of its' facilities due to slowdowns, strikes or other work interruptions, the Company may experience a negative impact to its' financial results.

The Company’s information technology systems could suffer interruptions, failures, unauthorized access, or breaches and our business operations could be disrupted, adversely affecting results of operations and the Company’s reputation.

The Company’s information technology systems, some of which are dependent on services provided by third parties, serve an important role in the operation of the business. These systems could be damaged or cease to function properly due to any number of causes, such as catastrophic events, power outages, security breaches, computer viruses or cyber-based attacks. The Company has contingency plans in place to prevent or mitigate the impact of these events, however, if they are not effective on a timely basis, business interruptions could occur which may adversely impact results of operations.

The Company has been, and likely will continue to be, subject to computer hacking, acts of vandalism or theft, malware, ransomware, computer viruses or other malicious codes, phishing, employee error or malfeasance, catastrophes, unforeseen events or other cyber-attacks. To date, the Company has seen no material impact on our business or operations from these attacks or events. Any future significant compromise or breach of data security, whether external or internal, or misuse of customer, associate, supplier or Company data, could result in significant costs, interrupted operations, lost sales, fines, lawsuits, and damage to the Company's reputation. The ever-evolving threats mean the Company and its third-party service providers and vendors must continually evaluate and adapt their respective systems and processes and overall security environment, as well as those of any companies acquired. There is no guarantee that these measures will be adequate to safeguard against all data security breaches, system compromises or misuses of data and insurance may not fully cover the costs of cyber incidents. In addition, the regulatory environment related to information security, data collection and use, and privacy is becoming increasingly rigorous, with new and requirements applicable to the Company's business. Compliance with such requirements could also result in additional costs.

The Company’s operations and financial results could be adversely impacted by events outside the Company’s control, such as COVID-19 and military or geopolitical conflicts.

As a result of events such as COVID-19 and regional military and political unrest in Eastern Europe and Africa, there could be unpredictable disruptions to the Company’s operations that could limit production, reduce its future revenues and negatively impact the Company’s financial condition. These events may result in supply chain and transportation disruptions to and from our facilities and could impact the Company’s ability to operate its facilities and distribute products to its customers in a timely fashion. In addition, these events may result in extreme volatility and disruptions in the capital and credit markets as well as widespread furloughs and layoffs for workers in the broader economy. This volatility and loss of employment may negatively impact consumer buying habits, which could adversely affect the Company’s financial results.

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The Company's future growth and financial results could be adversely impacted if the Company is unable to identify strategic acquisitions and to successfully integrate the acquired businesses.

The Company has made a significant number of acquisitions in recent years, including the AR Packaging acquisition, and expects to make additional strategic acquisitions in the future as part of its overall growth strategy. The Company's ability to continue to make strategic acquisitions from time to time and to integrate the acquired businesses successfully, including obtaining anticipated cost savings or synergies and expected operating results within a reasonable period of time, is an important factor in the Company's future growth. If the Company is unable to properly estimate, account for and realize the expected revenue and cash flow growth and other benefits from its acquisitions, the Company may be required to spend additional time or money on integration efforts that would otherwise have been spent on the development and expansion of its core business.

The Company may not be able to develop and introduce new products and adequately protect its intellectual property and proprietary rights, which could harm its future success and competitive position.

The Company works to increase market share and profitability through product innovation and the introduction of new products. The inability to develop new or better products that satisfy customer and consumer preferences in a timely manner may impact the Company's competitive position. The Company's future success and competitive position also depends, in part, upon its ability to obtain and maintain protection for certain proprietary carton and packaging machine technologies used in its value-added products, particularly those incorporating the Fridge Vendor, IntegraPak, KeelClip, MicroFlex-Q, MicroRite, Opti-Cycle, PaperSeal Slice and PaperSeal Wedge, Produce Pack, Quilt Wave, Qwik Crisp, Tite-Pak, and Z-Flute technologies. Failure to protect the Company's existing intellectual property rights may result in the loss of valuable technologies or may require the Company to license other companies' intellectual property rights. It is possible that any of the patents owned by the Company may be invalidated, rendered unenforceable, circumvented, challenged or licensed to others or any of its pending or future patent applications may not be issued within the scope of the claims sought by the Company, if at all. Further, others may develop technologies that are similar or superior to the Company's technologies, duplicate its technologies or design around its patents, and steps taken by the Company to protect its technologies may not prevent misappropriation of such technologies.

The Company's capital spending may not achieve the desired benefits, which could adversely impact future financial results.

The Company invests significant amounts of cash each year on capital projects which have expected returns to the Company. The Company's ability to execute on these projects in order to achieve planned outcomes, including obtaining expected returns and strategic long-term goals within a reasonable period of time, is an important factor in the Company's financial results and commitments to the market. As these investments start up, the Company may experience unanticipated business disruptions and not achieve the desired benefits or timelines. In addition, the Company's acquisitions may require more capital than expected to achieve synergies or expected operating results. Additional spending and unachieved benefits may adversely affect the Company's cash flow and results of operations.

The Company may face a shortage of skilled workers and key management personnel at its facilities.

The Company's ability to maintain or expand its business depends on attracting, training and retaining a skilled workforce. Changing demographics and workforce trends may result in a loss of knowledge and skills as experienced workers retire or resign. The Company may incur higher costs to hire and retain new workers, and the failure to attract and retain sufficient skilled workers may result in operational inefficiencies or require additional capital investments to reduce reliance on labor, which may adversely impact the Company's results.

The Company is subject to the risks of doing business in foreign countries.

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The Company is also subject to the following significant risks associated with operating in foreign countries:

•Export compliance;

•Compliance with and enforcement of environmental, health and safety, labor laws and data privacy and other regulations of the foreign countries in which the Company operates;

•Difficulties moving funds from certain countries back to the U.S.;

•Imposition or increase of withholding and other taxes on remittances and other payments by foreign subsidiaries; and

•Imposition of new or increases in capital investment requirements and other financing requirements by foreign governments.

Financial Risks

The Company's indebtedness may adversely affect its financial condition and its ability to react to changes in its business.

The Company had an aggregate principal amount of $5,283 million of outstanding debt as of December 31, 2022.

Because of the Company's debt level, a portion of its cash flows from operations is dedicated to payments on indebtedness and the Company's ability to obtain additional financing for working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions or general corporate purposes may be restricted in the future.

Additionally, the Company's Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (as amended, the "Current Credit Agreement") and the indentures governing the 0.821% Senior Notes due 2024, 4.125% Senior Notes due 2024, 1.512% Senior Notes due 2026, 4.75% Senior Notes due 2027, 3.50% Senior Notes due 2028, 3.50% Senior Notes due 2029, 2.625% Senior Notes due 2029 and 3.75% Senior Notes due 2030 (the “Indentures”), limit the Company's ability to incur additional indebtedness. Additional covenants contained in the Current Credit Agreement and the Indentures may, among other things, restrict the ability of the Company to dispose of assets, incur guarantee obligations, prepay other indebtedness, repurchase stock, pay dividends and make other restricted payments, create liens, make equity or debt investments, make acquisitions, modify terms of the Indentures, engage in mergers or consolidations, change the business conducted by the Company and its subsidiaries, and engage in certain transactions with affiliates. Such restrictions could limit the Company’s ability to respond to changing market conditions, fund its capital spending program, provide for unexpected capital investments or take advantage of business opportunities. These restrictions could limit the Company's flexibility to respond to changing market conditions and competitive pressures. The debt obligations and restrictions may also leave the Company more vulnerable to a downturn in general economic conditions or its business, or unable to carry out capital expenditures that are necessary or important to its growth strategy and productivity improvement programs.

As of December 31, 2022, approximately 32% of the Company’s debt is subject to variable rates of interest and exposes the Company to increased debt service obligations in the event of increased market interest rates.

Legal and Regulatory Risks

The Company is subject to a broad range of foreign, federal, state, and local laws and regulations, including environmental, health and safety, sustainability, data privacy, labor and employment, corruption, tax, and healthcare, and costs to comply with such laws and regulations, or any liability or obligation imposed under new laws or regulations, could negatively impact its financial condition and results of operations.

The Company must comply with a wide variety of environmental, health and safety laws and regulations, including those governing GHG emissions and other discharges to air, soil and water, the management, treatment and disposal of hazardous substances, the investigation and remediation of contamination resulting from releases of hazardous substances, waste disposal, recycling of packaging, extended producer responsibilities, deforestation risks, and the health and safety of employees. These laws and regulations, particularly those that relate to GHG emissions, are evolving and expected to become more stringent over time, which could result in significant additional compliance costs (such as the installation or modification of emission control equipment), increased costs of purchased energy or other raw materials, increased transportation costs, restrictions on our operations, or additional costs associated with air and water emissions. The Company is tracking and taking actions to reduce our GHG and other air and water emissions to decrease the potential future impact of these regulatory matters. However, the Company cannot currently assess the impact that future emission standards, climate control initiatives, regulation changes and enforcement practices will have on the Company's operations and capital expenditure requirements.

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Additionally, over the past few years, the number of data privacy laws and regulations has increased and become more complex and stringent in the U.S. and internationally. The improper handling and disclosure of or access to personal data in violation of privacy laws and regulations such as the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”), the California Privacy Rights Act (“CPRA”), the Virginia Consumer Data Protection Act (“CDPA”), and Canada’s Consumer Privacy Protection Act (“CPPA”) could cause harm to the Company’s reputation, cause loss of consumer confidence, subject the Company to government enforcement actions, or result in private litigation against the Company. Any of these outcomes could negatively impact the Company’s financial condition and results of operations. Moreover, with no unifying standards for both U.S. and international data privacy laws and regulations, the Company could incur additional compliance cost in order to comply with the large number of data privacy laws and regulations, which could result in a negative impact to the Company’s results of operations.

ITEM 1B.UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

None.

ITEM 2. PROPERTIES

Headquarters

The Company leases its principal executive offices in Atlanta, GA.

Operating Facilities

A listing of the principal properties owned or leased and operated by the Company is set forth below. The Company’s buildings are adequate and suitable for the business of the Company and have sufficient capacity to meet current requirements. The Company also leases certain smaller facilities, warehouses and office space throughout the U.S. and in foreign countries from time to time.


Location			Related Products or Use of Facility
Mills:
Augusta, GA			SBS
Battle Creek, MI(a)			CRB
East Angus, Québec			CRB
Kalamazoo, MI			CRB
Macon, GA			CUK
Middletown, OH			CRB
Texarkana, TX			SBS
West Monroe, LA			CUK, Research and Development


Other:
Atlanta, GA(b)			Headquarters, Research and Development, Packaging Machinery and Design
Clemson, SC(b)			Research and Development
Concord, NH(b)			Research and Development, Design Center
Crosby, MN			Packaging Machinery Engineering, Design and Manufacturing
Louisville, CO(b)			Research and Development
Menomonee Falls, WI			Foodservice Rebuild Center

(a) Closed in the second quarter of 2022.
(b) Leased facility.

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North American Converting Plants:		International Converting Plants:
Auburn, IN	New Albany, IN(b)	Aachen, Germany	Kanfanar, Croatia
Carol Stream, IL	Newton, IA	Auckland, New Zealand(a)	Krakow, Poland
Centralia, IL	North Portland, OR	Augsburg, Germany	Leeds, United Kingdom
Charlotte, NC	Norwalk, OH(c)	Bardon, United Kingdom	Lund, Sweden(a)(b)
Chicago, IL(a)	Omaha, NE	Bawen, Indonesia	Magdeburg, Germany(a)
Clarksville, TN	Oroville, CA(a)	Bekasi, Indonesia	Maliaño, Spain
Cobourg, Ontario(a)	Pacific, MO	Berlin, Germany(b)	Masnieres, France(a)
Elgin, IL	Perry, GA	Bremen, Germany(b)	Melbourne, Australia(a)
Elk Grove, IL(a)(b)	Pineville, NC	Bristol, United Kingdom	Munich, Germany(a)
Fort Smith, AR(b)	Pittston, PA	Cambridge, United Kingdom(a)	Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom(a)
Gordonsville, TN(a)	Prosperity, SC	Cholet, France(a)	Perth, Australia
Grand Rapids, MI	Querétaro, Mexico(a)	Coalville, United Kingdom(a)	Portlaoise, Ireland(a)
Gresham, OR(a)	Randleman, NC	Frankfurt, Germany(a)	Poznan, Poland(b)
Hamel, MN	Shelbyville, IL	Gateshead, United Kingdom(a)	Requejada, Spain
Irvine, CA	Solon, OH	Graz, Austria	Rotherham, United Kingdom(a)
Kalamazoo, MI	St.-Hyacinthe, Québec(a)	Halmstad, Sweden(a)	Sneek, Netherlands
Kendallville, IN	St. Paul, MN	Hannover, Germany	St. Gallen, Switzerland(a)
Kenton, OH	Staunton, VA	Highbridge, United Kingdom(a)	St. Petersburg, Russia(a)(d)
Kingston Springs, TN	Stone Mountain, GA(a)	Hoogerheide, Netherlands	Sydney, Australia(a)
Lancaster, TX	Sturgis, MI	Ibadan, Nigeria	Tabasalu, Estonia
Lawrenceburg, TN	Tijuana, Mexico(a)	Igualada, Spain	Tibro, Sweden
Lebanon, TN(a)	Tuscaloosa, AL	Ingerois, Finland(a)	Timashevsk, Russia(a)(d)
Lowell, MA	Valley Forge, PA	Jundiai, Sao Paulo, Brazil	Winsford, United Kingdom(a)
Lumberton, NC	Vancouver, WA(a)
Marietta, GA	Visalia, CA
Marion, OH	Wausau, WI
Memphis, TN	Wayne, NJ
Mississauga, Ontario(a)(b)	West Monroe, LA(b)
Mitchell, SD	Winnipeg, Manitoba
Monroe, LA(a)	Winston Salem, NC
Monterrey, Mexico(a)	Xenia, OH(a)



(a) Leased facility.
(b) Multiple facilities in this location.
(c) Closed in the third quarter of 2022.
(d) Location classified as held-for-sale.

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ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

The Company is a party to a number of lawsuits arising in the ordinary conduct of its business. Although the timing and outcome of these lawsuits cannot be predicted with certainty, the Company does not believe that disposition of these lawsuits will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. See "Note 14 - Environmental and Legal Matters" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included herein under “Item 8., Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

Not Applicable.

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EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

Pursuant to General Instruction G.(3) of Form 10-K, the following list is included as an unnumbered item in Part I of this Report in lieu of being included in the definitive proxy statement that will be filed within 120 days after December 31, 2022.

Michael P. Doss, 56, is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Graphic Packaging Holding Company. He was elected to the Board of Directors on May 20, 2015. Prior to January 1, 2016, Mr. Doss held the position of President and Chief Operating Officer from May 20, 2015 through December 31, 2015 and Chief Operating Officer from January 1, 2014 until May 19, 2015. Prior to these positions he served as the Executive Vice President, Commercial Operations of Graphic Packaging Holding Company. Prior to this Mr. Doss held the position of Senior Vice President, Consumer Packaging Division. Prior to March 2008, he had served as Senior Vice President, Consumer Products Packaging of Graphic Packaging Corporation since September 2006. From July 2000 until September 2006, he was the Vice President of Operations, Universal Packaging Division. Mr. Doss was Director of Web Systems for the Universal Packaging Division prior to his promotion to Vice President of Operations. Since joining Graphic Packaging International Corporation in 1990, Mr. Doss has held positions of increasing management responsibility, including Plant Manager at the Gordonsville, TN and Wausau, WI plants.

Mr. Doss serves on the Board of Directors for the American Forest & Paper Association, the Sustainable Forest Initiative, the Paper Recycling Coalition, the Atlanta Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America, Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce, the Woodruff Art Center, American Bird Conservancy and Regal Rexnord Corporation (RRX).

Stephen R. Scherger, 58, is the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Graphic Packaging Holding Company. From October 1, 2014 through December 31, 2014, Mr. Scherger was the Senior Vice President – Finance. From April 2012 through September 2014, Mr. Scherger served as Senior Vice President, Consumer Packaging Division. Mr. Scherger joined Graphic Packaging Holding Company in April of 2012 from MeadWestvaco Corporation, where he served as President, Beverage and Consumer Electronics. Mr. Scherger was with MeadWestvaco Corporation from 1986 to 2012 and held positions including Vice President, Corporate Strategy; Vice President and General Manager, Beverage Packaging; Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Papers Group, Vice President Asia Pacific and Latin America, Beverage Packaging, Chief Financial Officer Beverage Packaging and other executive‐level positions.

Maggie Bidlingmaier, 52, joined Graphic Packaging Holding Company as the Executive Vice President and President, Americas business unit on January 28, 2022. Maggie was most recently President, Performance Solutions for Invista, a subsidiary of Koch Industries, Inc., where she led numerous multimillion-dollar global businesses within the flooring, apparel and airbag fiber segments. Prior to that, she was Vice President, Surfaces at Invista, following a successful career with Avery Dennison in global sales and marketing roles of increasing responsibility.

Michael Farrell, 56, became the Executive Vice President, Mills Division of Graphic Packaging Holding Company in September 2018. Prior to that, he served as the Senior Vice President, Supply Chain from January to September 2018. Prior to January 2018, Mr. Farrell served as Vice President, Recycled Board Mills of Graphic Packaging International, LLC and its predecessor companies ("GPI") from January 1, 2013; and Senior Manufacturing Manager of GPI from October 28, 2009 until December 31, 2012. From December 11, 2008 until October 27, 2009, Mr. Farrell was the Manufacturing Manager of the West Monroe, Louisiana mill and from September 1, 2006 until December 10, 2008 he was the General Manager of the Middletown, Ohio mill of GPI.

Elizabeth Spence, 43, is the Executive Vice President, Human Resources. She joined the Company on April 1, 2022. Prior to this she was Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer at Gypsum Management and Supply, following her role as Vice President of Human Resources at Assurant. Ms. Spence is a seasoned human resources executive, having also spent time at BellSouth/AT&T and The Coca-Cola Company.

Lauren S. Tashma, 56, is the Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of Graphic Packaging Holding Company. She joined the Company in February 2014. Previously, Ms. Tashma served as Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of Fortune Brands Home & Security, Inc., where she led the legal, compliance and EHS functions. Prior to that, Ms. Tashma had various roles with Fortune Brands, Inc., including Vice President and Associate General Counsel.

Joseph P. Yost, 55, is the Executive Vice President and President, International of Graphic Packaging Holding Company. Prior to January 5, 2022, he served as Executive Vice President and President, Americas. Prior to January 5, 2017, Mr. Yost served as Senior Vice President, Global Beverage and Europe from September 1, 2015 to January 4, 2017, Senior Vice President, Europe from March 1, 2014 to August 31, 2015 and Senior Vice President, European Chief Integration Officer/Chief Financial Officer from February 2013 until February 2014. From 2009 until February 2013, Mr. Yost was the Senior Vice President, Supply Chain of Graphic Packaging Holding Company. From 2006 to 2009, he served as Vice President, Operations Support – Consumer Packaging for Graphic Packaging International, Inc. Mr. Yost has also served in the following positions: Director, Finance and Centralized Services from 2003 to 2006 with Graphic Packaging International, Inc. and from 2000 to 2003 with Graphic Packaging Corporation; Manager, Operations Planning and Analysis – Consumer Products Division from 1999 to 2000 with Graphic Packaging Corporation; and other management positions from 1997 to 1999 with Fort James Corporation.

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PART II

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

GPHC’s common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “GPK.”

On February 8, 2023, there were approximately 955 stockholders of record and approximately 100,738 beneficial holders of GPHC's common stock.

During 2022 and 2021, GPHC paid cash dividends of $92 million and $87 million, respectively.

The following presents the Company's share repurchases for the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021, and 2020:



Amount repurchased in millions, except share and per share amounts	Amount Repurchased		Number of Shares Repurchased	Average Price per Share

2022	$	28	1,315,839	$	20.91
2021	$	—	—	$	—
2020	$	316	23,420,010	$	13.48

At December 31, 2022, the Company had $119 million available for additional repurchases under the 2019 share purchase program.

2022

On November 4, 2022, GPIL entered into Amendment No. 2 to the Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “Second Amendment”). The Second Amendment provided for a change in the floating interest rate benchmark for the domestic revolving credit facility and the USD denominated term loans from LIBOR-based to Term SOFR plus 10bps. The Second Amendment also added JSC AR Packaging to the Schedule of Permitted Asset Sales to facilitate the sale of the Company's Russian operations.

On November 15, 2022, the Company drew $250 million from the senior secured domestic revolving credit facilities and used the proceeds, together with cash on hand, to redeem its 4.875% Senior Notes due in 2022.

2021

On January 14, 2021, the Company drew the $425 million Incremental Term A-2 Facility (as hereinafter defined) and used the proceeds, together with cash on hand, to redeem its 4.75% Senior Notes due in 2021.

On March 8, 2021, GPIL completed a private offering of $400 million aggregate principal amount of its 0.821% Senior Secured Notes due 2024 and $400 million aggregate principal amount of its 1.512% Senior Secured Notes due 2026. The net proceeds were used by the Company to repay a portion of the outstanding borrowings under GPIL's term loan credit facilities, which is under its senior secured credit facility.

On April 1, 2021, GPIL entered into the Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement”) to extend the maturity date of certain of its senior secured term loan facilities and senior secured revolving credit facilities and to amend certain other terms of the agreement, including revised debt covenants and collateral requirements. Under the terms of the agreement, $975 million of the Company’s senior secured term loan facilities remains outstanding. The Company added approximately $400 million to its senior secured revolving credit facilities. $550 million of the senior secured term loan facilities and all of the senior secured revolving credit facility loans continue to bear interest at a floating rate per annum ranging from LIBOR plus 1.25% to LIBOR plus 2.00%, determined using a pricing grid based upon the Company’s consolidated total leverage ratio from time to time, and the maturity for these loans were extended from January 1, 2023 to April 1, 2026. $425 million of the senior secured term loan facilities is a Farm Credit System incremental term loan (the “Incremental Term A-2 Facility”) that bears interest at a fixed rate per annum equal to 2.67% and matures on its originally scheduled maturity date of January 14, 2028. As long as the Incremental Term A-2 Facility is outstanding, GPIL will be eligible to receive an annual patronage credit from the participating banks, which will be paid in cash and stock in the lead member bank. Patronage payable each year is variable and based on the individual financial performance of each of the member banks then participating in the loan.

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On July 22, 2021, GPIL entered into an Incremental Facility Amendment to the Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement for a second Farm Credit System incremental term loan (the “Incremental Term A-3 Facility”). The Incremental Term A-3 Facility is a senior secured term loan in the aggregate principal amount of $250 million maturing on July 22, 2028. The Incremental Term A-3 Facility bears interest at a floating rate ranging from LIBOR plus 1.50% to LIBOR plus 2.25%, determined using a pricing grid based upon GPIL’s consolidated leverage ratio. As long as the Incremental Term A-3 Facility is outstanding, GPIL will be eligible to receive an annual patronage credit from the participating banks, which will be paid in cash and stock in the lead member bank. Patronage payable each year is variable and based on the individual financial performance of each of the member banks then participating in the loan. The Incremental Term A-3 Facility is governed by the same covenants as are set forth in the Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement and is secured by a first priority lien and security interest in certain assets of GPIL.

On July 23, 2021, GPIL entered into Amendment No. 1 to the Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement and the Fourth Amended and Restated Guarantee and Collateral Agreement and Incremental Facility Amendment (the “First Amendment”). The First Amendment provided for a delayed draw term loan facility in an aggregate amount of €210 million and a €25 million increase to the existing Euro-denominated revolving credit facility. The new term loan facility was drawn on October 29, 2021, and bears interest at a floating rate ranging from EURIBOR plus 1.125% to EURIBOR plus 1.75%, determined using a pricing grid based upon GPIL’s consolidated total leverage ratio from time to time. The Company designated this Euro-denominated debt as a non-derivative net investment hedge of a portion of our net investment in Euro functional currency denominated subsidiaries to offset currency fluctuations. The new term loan facility is governed by the same covenants as set forth in the Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement and is secured by a first priority lien and security interest in certain assets of GPIL.

On September 29, 2021, GPIL completed a $100 million tax-exempt green bond transaction through the Michigan Strategic Fund’s Private Activity Bond Program (the “Green Bonds”). The Green Bonds are special limited obligations of the Michigan Strategic Fund, as issuer, payable from and secured by a pledge of payments to be made by GPIL under a loan agreement between the Michigan Strategic Fund and GPIL. The Green Bonds mature in 2061 and include a mandatory purchase on October 1, 2026. The Green Bonds were issued at a price of 110.99% and bear interest at an annual rate of 4.0%. The equivalent yield is 1.70%. The net proceeds of $109.5 million were used to fund a portion of its spend on the CRB platform optimization project that includes the construction of a new CRB machine at its Kalamazoo, Michigan mill. The bonds have been designated as Green Bonds primarily because the proceeds were used to finance a solid waste disposal/recycling facility resulting in diversion of waste from landfills. In addition to the solid waste recycling aspect, the project improves the environmental footprint of its CRB mill system through expected reductions in water usage, energy consumption and GHG emissions.

On October 6, 2021, GPIL entered into a $400 million Incremental Facility Amendment to the Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the "Incremental Term A-4 Facility"). The Incremental Term A-4 Facility has a delayed draw feature, and the Company funded the new term loan on October 29, 2021. The Incremental Term A-4 Facility was collateralized by the same assets as GPIL’s Senior Secured Facilities on a pari passu basis. The Incremental Term A-4 Facility bore interest at a floating rate per annum equal to the Base Rate, the Euro currency Rate plus 0.875%, or the Daily Floating LIBOR Rate plus 0.875%, as selected by the Company. The loan was repaid on November 19, 2021 with the proceeds from the 3.75% senior unsecured notes due 2030.

On November 19, 2021, GPIL completed a private offering of $400 million aggregate principal amount of 3.750% senior unsecured notes due 2030 (the “Dollar Notes”) and €290 million aggregate principal amount of 2.625% senior unsecured notes due 2029 (the “Euro Notes”). The net proceeds of the Dollar Notes were used to repay in full the term loan borrowed under the Incremental Term A-4 Loan, which was under its senior secured credit facility. The net proceeds of the Euro Notes were used to repay revolver borrowings outstanding under its senior secured credit facility. The Company designated this Euro-denominated debt as a non-derivative net investment hedge of a portion of our net investment in Euro functional currency denominated subsidiaries to offset currency fluctuations.

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Total Return to Stockholders

The following graph compares the total returns (assuming reinvestment of dividends) of the common stock of Graphic Packaging Holding Company, the Standard & Poor’s (“S&P”) 500 Stock Index and the Dow Jones (“DJ”) U.S. Container & Packaging Index. The graph assumes $100 invested on December 31, 2017 in GPHC’s common stock and each of the indices. The stock price performance on the following graph is not necessarily indicative of future stock price performance.


	12/31/2017		12/31/2018		12/31/2019		12/31/2020		12/31/2021		12/31/2022
Graphic Packaging Holding Company	$	100.00	$	70.41	$	112.53	$	116.97	$	136.83	$	158.54
S&P 500 Stock Index	100.00		95.62		125.72		148.85		191.58		156.89
Dow Jones U.S. Container & Packaging Index	100.00		81.55		104.86		127.03		140.95		115.86

ITEM 6. [RESERVED]

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ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

INTRODUCTION

This management’s discussion and analysis of financial conditions and results of operations is intended to provide investors with an understanding of the Company’s past performance, financial condition and prospects. The following will be discussed and analyzed:

•Overview of Business

•Overview of 2022 Results

•Results of Operations

•Financial Condition, Liquidity and Capital Resources

•Critical Accounting Policies

•New Accounting Standards

•Business Outlook

A detailed discussion of the fiscal 2022 year-over-year changes can be found below and a detailed discussion of fiscal 2021 year-over-year changes can be found in Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021.

OVERVIEW OF BUSINESS

The Company’s objective is to strengthen its position as a leading provider of recyclable, fiber-based consumer packaging solutions. To achieve this objective, the Company offers customers its paperboard, cartons, cups, lids, foodservice containers and packaging machines, either as an integrated solution or separately. Cartons, carriers and containers are designed to protect and hold products. Product offerings include a variety of laminated, coated and printed packaging structures that are produced from the Company’s coated recycled paperboard ("CRB"), coated unbleached kraft paperboard ("CUK") and solid bleached sulfate paperboard ("SBS"). Innovative designs and combinations of paperboard, films, foils, metallization, holographic and embossing are customized to the individual needs of the customers.

The Company is implementing strategies (i) to expand market share in its current markets and to identify and penetrate new markets; (ii) to capitalize on the Company’s customer relationships, business competencies, and mills and folding carton assets; (iii) to develop and market innovative, packaging products and applications that benefit from consumer-led sustainability trends; and (iv) to continue to reduce costs by focusing on operational improvements. The Company’s ability to fully implement its strategies and achieve its objectives may be influenced by a variety of factors, many of which are beyond its control, such as inflation of raw material and other costs, which the Company cannot always pass through to its customers, and the effect of overcapacity in the worldwide paperboard packaging industry.

Significant Factors That Impact the Company’s Business and Results of Operations

Impact of Inflation/Deflation. The Company’s cost of sales consists primarily of energy (including natural gas, fuel oil and electricity), pine and hardwood fiber, chemicals, secondary fibers, purchased paperboard, aluminum foil, ink, plastic films and resins, depreciation expense and labor. Costs increased year over year by $710 million in 2022. The higher costs in 2022 were due to higher commodity inflation costs ($598 million), labor and benefits ($50 million), and other costs, net ($62 million). Commodity inflation was primarily due to external board ($173 million), mill chemicals ($128 million), energy ($110 million), wood ($55 million), freight ($44 million), converting chemicals ($40 million) secondary fiber ($31 million), and other costs ($17 million). Because the price of natural gas experiences significant volatility, the Company has entered into contracts designed to manage risks associated with future variability in cash flows caused by changes in the price of natural gas. The Company has entered into natural gas swap contracts to hedge prices for a portion of its expected usage for 2022 and 2023. Since negotiated sales contracts and the market largely determine the pricing for its products, the Company is at times limited in its ability to raise prices and pass through to its customers any inflationary or other cost increases that the Company may incur.

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The Company’s operations and financial results could be adversely impacted by global events outside of the Company’s control. The Company’s operations and financial results could be adversely impacted by global events outside of the Company’s control, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. As a result of such global events, there could be unpredictable disruptions to the Company’s operations that could limit production, reduce its future revenues and negatively impact the Company’s financial condition. These global events may result in supply chain and transportation disruptions to and from our facilities and affected employees could impact the Company’s ability to operate its facilities and distribute products to its customers in a timely fashion. In addition, these global events may result in extreme volatility and disruptions in the capital and credit markets as well as widespread furloughs and layoffs for workers in the broader economy. During the second quarter of 2022, the Company began the process of selling its interests in its two folding carton plants in Russia (the "Russian Operations"), which it expects to complete within the next six months. The Company is adhering to all U.S., U.K., and EU sanctions. In 2022, the Company's Russian Operations provided approximately 1% of the Company’s Net Sales and approximately 1% of the Company's EBITDA. Refer to "Note 19 - Impairment and Divestiture of Russian Business" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Commitment to Cost Reduction. In light of continuing margin pressure throughout the packaging industry, the Company has programs in place that are designed to reduce costs, improve productivity and increase profitability. The Company utilizes a global continuous improvement initiative that uses statistical process control to help design and manage many types of activities, including production and maintenance. This includes a Six Sigma process focused on reducing variable and fixed manufacturing and administrative costs and the use of Lean Sigma principles in manufacturing and supply chain processes.

The Company’s ability to continue to successfully implement its business strategies and to realize anticipated savings and operating efficiencies is subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond the Company’s control. If the Company cannot successfully implement the strategic cost reductions or other cost savings plans it may not be able to continue to compete successfully against other manufacturers. In addition, any failure to generate the anticipated efficiencies and savings could adversely affect the Company’s financial results.

Competition and Market Factors. As some products can be packaged in different types of materials, the Company’s sales are affected by competition from other manufacturers’ CRB, CUK, SBS, folding box board, and recycled clay-coated news. Additional substitute products also include plastic, shrink film and corrugated containers. In addition, while the Company has long-term relationships with many of its customers, the underlying contracts may be re-bid or renegotiated from time to time, and the Company may not be successful in renewing on favorable terms or at all. The Company works to maintain market share through efficiency, product innovation, service and strategic sourcing to its customers; however, pricing and other competitive pressures may occasionally result in the loss of a customer relationship.

In addition, the Company’s sales are driven by consumer buying habits in the markets its customers serve. Recently, the Company has seen net organic sales growth driven by the consumers' desire for recyclable, fiber-based packaging solutions. Changes in consumer dietary habits and preferences, increases in the costs of living, unemployment rates, access to credit markets, as well as other macroeconomic factors, may negatively affect consumer spending behavior. New product introductions and promotional activity by the Company’s customers and the Company’s introduction of new packaging products also impact its sales.

Debt Obligations. The Company had an aggregate principal amount of $5,283 million of outstanding debt obligations as of December 31, 2022. This debt has consequences for the Company, as it requires a portion of cash flow from operations to be used for the payment of principal and interest, exposes the Company to the risk of increased interest rates and may restrict the Company’s ability to obtain additional financing. Covenants in the Company’s Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (as amended, the “Current Credit Agreement”) and the indentures governing the 0.821% Senior Notes due 2024, 4.125% Senior Notes due 2024, 1.512% Senior Notes due 2026, 4.75% Senior Notes due 2027, 3.50% Senior Notes due 2028, 3.50% Senior Notes due 2029, 2.625% Senior Notes due 2029 and 3.75% Senior Notes due 2030 (the “Indentures”) may, among other things, restrict the ability of the Company to dispose of assets, incur guarantee obligations, prepay other indebtedness, repurchase stock, pay dividends, make other restricted payments and make acquisitions or other investments. The Current Credit Agreement also requires compliance with a maximum consolidated leverage ratio and a minimum consolidated interest coverage ratio. The Company’s ability to comply in future periods with the financial covenants will depend on its ongoing financial and operating performance, which in turn will be subject to many other factors, many of which are beyond the Company’s control. See "Covenant Restrictions" in “Financial Condition, Liquidity and Capital Resources” for additional information regarding the Company’s debt obligations.

The debt and the restrictions under the Current Credit Agreement and the Indentures could limit the Company’s flexibility to respond to changing market conditions and competitive pressures. The outstanding debt obligations and the restrictions may also leave the Company more vulnerable to a downturn in general economic conditions or its business, or unable to carry out capital expenditures that are necessary or important to its growth strategy and productivity improvement programs.

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OVERVIEW OF RESULTS

This management’s discussion and analysis contains an analysis of Net Sales, Income from Operations and other information relevant to an understanding of the Company's results of operations. On a Consolidated basis:

•Net Sales in 2022 increased by $2,284 million or 32%, to $9,440 million from $7,156 million in 2021 due to the acquisitions of Americraft and AR Packaging in 2021, higher selling prices, increased volume from conversions to fiber-based packaging solutions and higher volume of open market sales, and partially offset by unfavorable foreign exchange.

•Income from Operations in 2022 increased by $499 million or 123%, to $906 million from $407 million in 2021 due to higher pricing, higher volumes from organic sales growth and acquisitions, higher volume of open market sales, the positive contribution to volume and performance of the new CRB machine in Kalamazoo, Michigan and product mix, partially offset by unfavorable commodity inflation and other inflation (primarily labor and benefits), higher variable incentives, unfavorable foreign exchange, and higher depreciation and amortization.

Acquisitions and Dispositions

•On July 1, 2021, the Company acquired substantially all the assets of Americraft, the largest independent folding carton converter in North America. The acquisition included seven converting plants across the United States and is reported within the Americas Paperboard Packaging reportable segment.

•On November 1, 2021, the Company acquired all the shares of AR Packaging, Europe's second largest producer of fiber-based consumer packaging. The acquisition included 30 converting plants in 13 countries and is reported within the Europe Paperboard Packaging reportable segment.

•In May 2022, the Company closed the Battle Creek, MI CRB mill.

•In May 2022, the Company committed to sell its two folding carton plants in Russia and classified the facilities as held for sale, resulting in impairment charges of $96 million, including $12 million of goodwill impairment in 2022.

•In September 2022, the Company closed its Norwalk, Ohio carton facility, which it had announced to close in March 2022.

Share Repurchases and Dividends

•During 2022, the Company repurchased 1,315,839 shares of its common stock at an average price of $20.91 under the 2019 share repurchase program. As of December 31, 2022, the Company has $119 million available for additional repurchases under the 2019 share repurchase program.

•During 2022, the Company declared cash dividends of $99 million and paid cash dividends of $92 million.

•On September 22, 2022 the Company's board of directors voted to increase the quarterly dividend to $0.10 per share of common stock, a 33% increase from the prior quarterly dividend of $0.075. The dividend was paid on January 5, 2023, to common stockholders of record at the close of business on December 15, 2022.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


	Year Ended December 31,
In millions	2022		2021		2020
Net Sales	$	9,440	$	7,156	$	6,560
Income from Operations	$	906	$	407	$	524
Nonoperating Pension and Postretirement Benefit Income (Expense)	7		5		(151)
Interest Expense, Net	(197)		(123)		(129)

Income before Income Taxes and Equity Income of Unconsolidated Entity	$	716	$	289	$	244
Income Tax Expense	(194)		(74)		(42)
Income before Equity Income of Unconsolidated Entity	$	522	$	215	$	202
Equity Income of Unconsolidated Entity	—		1		1
Net Income	$	522	$	216	$	203

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2022 COMPARED WITH 2021

Net Sales

The components of the change in Net Sales are as follows:


	Year Ended December 31,
			Variances
In millions	2021		Price		Volume/Mix		Foreign Exchange		2022		Increase		Percent Change
Consolidated	$	7,156	$	1,131	$	1,283	$	(130)	$	9,440	$	2,284	32	%

The Company's Net Sales in 2022 increased by $2,284 million or 32%, to $9,440 million from $7,156 million for the same period in 2021, due to $1,088 million of net sales related to the acquisitions of Americraft in Q3 2021 and AR Packaging in Q4 2021, higher selling prices, increased volume from conversions to fiber-based packaging solutions, new product introductions and higher volume of open market sales, partially offset by unfavorable foreign exchange rates, primarily the Euro, British Pound, Canadian dollar, Australian dollar, Japanese Yen, and Mexican Peso. Core converting volumes were up driven by cereal, dry foods, and frozen pizza, and partially offset by lower volumes in beverage, frozen foods, and bakery.

Income from Operations

The components of the change in Income from Operations are as follows:


	Year Ended December 31,
			Variances
In millions	2021		Price		Volume/Mix		Inflation		Foreign Exchange		Other(a)		2022		Increase		Percent Change
Consolidated	$	407	$	1,131	$	173	$	(710)	$	(37)	$	(58)	$	906	$	499	123	%

(a) Includes the Company's cost reduction initiatives, planned mill maintenance costs, expenses related to acquisitions and integration activities, exit activities, and shutdown and other special charges.

The Company's Income from Operations for 2022 increased $499 million or 123%, to $906 million from $407 million for the same period in 2021 due to higher pricing, higher volumes from organic sales growth and acquisitions, higher volume of open market sales, the positive contribution to volume and performance of the new CRB machine in Kalamazoo, Michigan and mix, partially offset by unfavorable commodity inflation and other inflation (primarily labor and benefits), unfavorable foreign exchange, higher variable incentives, and higher depreciation and amortization.

Inflation in 2022 increased due to higher commodity inflation costs ($598 million), labor and benefits ($50 million), and other costs, net ($62 million). Commodity inflation was primarily due to external board ($173 million), mill chemicals ($128 million), energy ($110 million), wood ($55 million), freight ($44 million), converting chemicals ($40 million) secondary fiber ($31 million), and other costs ($17 million).

Interest Expense, Net

Interest Expense, Net was $197 million and $123 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively. Interest Expense, Net increased due to higher debt balances and interest rates. As of December 31, 2022, approximately 32% of the Company’s total debt was subject to floating interest rates.

Income Tax Expense

During 2022 and 2021, the Company recognized Income Tax Expense of $194 million and $74 million, on Income before Income Taxes of $716 million and $289 million, respectively.

The effective tax rate for 2022 is different from the statutory rate primarily due to impairment charges from the planned sale of the Company’s Russian business that resulted in no corresponding tax benefit in addition to the mix of earnings between foreign and domestic jurisdictions, including those with and without valuation allowances. The Company also recognized $10 million of tax expense to release the tax expense remaining in Other Comprehensive Income after the settlement of certain swaps during the period, which increased the effective tax rate.

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The effective tax rate for 2021 is different from the statutory rate due to due to the tax effect of income attributable to noncontrolling interests as well as the mix of earnings between foreign and domestic jurisdictions. In addition, during 2021, the Company recorded discrete tax expense to recognize tax rate increases in the United Kingdom as well as discrete tax expense to recognize the effects of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act on executive compensation as a result of IP’s exit from the partnership.

The Company utilized its remaining U.S. federal net operating loss carryforwards during 2020. However, as a result of deductions associated with the step-up in tax basis of certain assets as a result of IP’s exit from the GPIL partnership, the Company generated a taxable loss of $564 million during 2021 that can be carried forward for U.S. federal income tax purposes indefinitely. As of December 31, 2022, the Company's remaining U.S. federal net operating loss carryforward is approximately $238 million. As such, based on the remaining net operating loss carryforward and tax credit carryforwards, which are available to offset future U.S. federal income tax, the Company expects its U.S. federal cash tax liability in 2023 to be reduced by approximately $100 million.

Equity Income of Unconsolidated Entity

Equity Income of Unconsolidated Entity was less than $1 million in 2022 and $1 million in 2021 and is related to the Company’s equity investment through its GPIL subsidiary, in the Rengo Riverwood Packaging, Ltd. joint venture.

Segment Reporting

The Company has three reportable segments as follows:

The Company allocates certain mill and corporate costs to the reportable segments to appropriately represent the economics of these segments. The Corporate and Other caption includes the Pacific Rim and Australia operating segments and unallocated corporate and one-time costs.

These segments are evaluated by the chief operating decision maker based primarily on Income from Operations, as adjusted for depreciation and amortization. The accounting policies of the reportable segments are the same as those described in "Note 1 - Nature of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included herein under “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data."

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	Year Ended December 31,
In millions	2022		2021		2020
NET SALES:
Paperboard Mills	$	1,290	$	1,007	$	988
Americas Paperboard Packaging	6,015		4,996		4,650
Europe Paperboard Packaging	1,973		992		765

Corporate/Other/Eliminations(a)	162		161		157
Total	$	9,440	$	7,156	$	6,560

INCOME (LOSS) FROM OPERATIONS:
Paperboard Mills(b)(d)	$	45	$	(10)	$	(110)
Americas Paperboard Packaging	800		456		639
Europe Paperboard Packaging(c)	59		82		66

Corporate and Other(d)	2		(121)		(71)
Total	$	906	$	407	$	524

(a) Includes revenue from contracts with customers for the Australia and Pacific Rim operating segments.

(b) Includes accelerated depreciation related to exit activities in 2022, 2021, and 2020.

(c) Includes impairment charges of $96 million related to Russia incurred in 2022. See "Note 19 - Impairment and Divestiture of Russian Business" in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

(d) Includes expenses related to business combinations, shutdown and other special charges, and exit activities.

2022 COMPARED WITH 2021

Paperboard Mills

Net Sales increased from prior year due to higher selling prices, mix and higher open market volume. The Company also internalized more paperboard tons.

Income from Operations increased due to higher pricing, higher open market volume, the positive contribution to volume and performance of the new CRB paper machine in Kalamazoo, Michigan and, downtime and mitigation costs related to Winter Storm Uri in Q1 2021, partially offset by the winter weather in Q4 2022 and commodity inflation. The commodity inflation was primarily due to higher prices for chemicals, energy, wood, secondary fiber, and freight.

Americas Paperboard Packaging

Net Sales increased due to higher pricing, the acquisition of Americraft in Q3 2021, organic sales growth, including conversions to our fiber-based packaging solutions, mix and new product introductions, partially offset by unfavorable foreign currency exchange rates. Higher volumes in cereal, dry foods, frozen pizza and tissue were partially offset by lower volumes in beverage, bakery, frozen foods and pet food. In beverage, volumes decreased primarily in craft beer and specialty beverages offset by soft drinks.

Income from Operations increased due to higher pricing, higher core converting volume and increased volume from conversions to our fiber based packaging solutions, mix, and cost savings from continuous improvement and other programs, partially offset by commodity inflation and other inflation (primarily labor and benefits). The commodity inflation was primarily due to higher prices for external board, chemicals, freight, and energy.

Europe Paperboard Packaging

Net Sales increased due to the acquisition of AR Packaging on November 1, 2021 as well as higher pricing, mix, organic sales growth at AR Packaging and new product introductions, partially offset by lower core converting volumes in certain market segments, and unfavorable foreign currency exchange rates.

Income from Operations decreased primarily due to impairment charges of $96 million related to the Company's classification of its Russian operations as held for sale in the second quarter. Refer to "Note 19 - Impairment and Divestiture of Russian Business" in the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information. Excluding these impairment charges, Income from Operations increased due to the acquisition of AR Packaging on November 1, 2021, higher pricing, mix, and cost savings through continuous improvement and other programs, partially offset by commodity inflation primarily related to external board and labor and benefits, lower core converting volumes in certain market segments and unfavorable foreign currency exchange rates.

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FINANCIAL CONDITION, LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

The Company broadly defines liquidity as its ability to generate sufficient funds from both internal and external sources to meet its obligations and commitments. In addition, liquidity includes the ability to obtain appropriate debt and equity financing and to convert into cash those assets that are no longer required to meet existing strategic and financial objectives. Therefore, liquidity cannot be considered separately from capital resources that consist of current or potentially available funds for use in achieving long-range business objectives and meeting debt service commitments.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

The Company expects its material cash requirements for the next twelve months will be for: capital expenditures, periodic required estimated income tax payments, periodic interest and debt service payments on associated debt, as discussed in Note 5, lease agreements which have fixed lease payment obligations, as discussed in Note 6, and minimum purchase commitments as discussed in Note 13 along with ongoing operating costs, working capital, share repurchases and dividend payments. The Company expects its primary sources of liquidity to be cash flows from sales and operating activities in the normal course of operations and availability from its revolving credit facilities, as needed. The Company expects that these sources will be sufficient to fund our ongoing cash requirements for the foreseeable future, including at least the next twelve months.

Principal and interest payments under the term loan facilities and the revolving credit facilities, together with principal and interest payments on the Company's 0.821% Senior Notes due 2024, 4.125% Senior Notes due 2024, 1.512% Senior Notes due 2026, 4.75% Senior Notes due 2027, 3.50% Senior Notes due 2028, 3.50% Senior Notes due 2029, 2.625% Senior Notes due 2029 and 3.75% Senior Notes due 2030 (the “Notes”), represent liquidity requirements for the Company. Based upon current levels of operations, anticipated cost savings and expectations as to future growth, the Company believes that cash generated from operations, together with amounts available under its revolving credit facilities and other available financing sources, will be adequate to permit the Company to meet its debt service obligations, necessary capital expenditure program requirements and ongoing operating costs and working capital needs, although no assurance can be given in this regard. The Company's future financial and operating performance, ability to service or refinance its debt and ability to comply with the covenants and restrictions contained in its debt agreements (see “Covenant Restrictions” below) will be subject to future economic conditions, including conditions in the credit markets, and to financial, business and other factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control, and will be substantially dependent on the selling prices and demand for the Company's products, raw material and energy costs, and the Company's ability to successfully implement its overall business and profitability strategies.

Accounts receivable are stated at the amount owed by the customer, net of an allowance for estimated uncollectible accounts, returns and allowances, and cash discounts. The allowance for doubtful accounts is estimated based on historical experience, current economic conditions and the creditworthiness of customers. Receivables are charged to the allowance when determined to be no longer collectible.

The Company has entered into agreements to sell, on a revolving basis, certain trade accounts receivable to third party financial institutions. Transfers under these agreements meet the requirements to be accounted for as sales in accordance with the Transfers and Servicing topic of the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Accounting Standards Codification (the "Codification"). The loss on sale is not material and is included in Other Expense, Net line item on the Consolidated Statement of Operations. The following table summarizes the activity under these programs for the year ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively:


	Year Ended December 31,
In millions	2022		2021
Receivables Sold and Derecognized	$	3,299	$	2,947
Proceeds Collected on Behalf of Financial Institutions	3,179		2,970
Net Proceeds Received From (Paid to) Financial Institutions	152		(6)
Deferred Purchase Price at December 31(a)	—		4
Pledged Receivables at December 31	197		180

(a) Included in Other Current Assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and represents a beneficial interest in the receivables sold to the financial institutions, which is a Level 3 fair value measure.

Receivables sold under all programs subject to continuing involvement, which consist principally of collection services, were approximately $753 million and $613 million as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

The Company also participates in supply chain financing arrangements offered by certain customers that qualify for sale accounting in accordance with the Transfers and Servicing topic of the FASB Codification. As of December 31, 2022 and 2021, the Company sold receivables of $1,124 million and $693 million, respectively, related to these arrangements.

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Cash Flows


	Years Ended December 31,
In millions	2022		2021
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities	$	1,090	$	609
Net Cash Used in Investing Activities	$	(435)	$	(2,392)
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities	$	(666)	$	1,778

Net cash provided by operating activities in 2022 totaled $1,090 million, compared to $609 million in 2021. The favorable increase was mainly due to improved income from operations. Pension contributions in 2022 and 2021 were $24 million and $33 million, respectively. In the first quarter of 2022 and 2021, the Company made a $6 million and $14 million contribution respectively to its remaining U.S. defined benefit plan by effectively utilizing the excess balance related to its U.S. defined benefit plan terminated in 2020.

Net cash used in investing activities in 2022 totaled $435 million, compared to $2,392 million in 2021. Capital spending was $549 million and $802 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively. In the prior year, the Company paid $292 million and $1,412 million, net of cash acquired, for the Americraft and AR Packaging acquisitions, respectively. Net cash receipts related to the accounts receivable securitization and sale programs were $119 million in 2022 and 2021.

Net cash used in financing activities in 2022 totaled $666 million, compared to $1,778 million provided by financing activities in 2021. As further discussed in “Note 5 – Debt” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included herein under “Item 8., Financial Statements and Supplementary Data,” current year activities included the redemption of the 4.875% Senior Notes due 2022 of $250 million. Other current year activities included borrowings under revolving credit facilities primarily for capital spending, repurchase of common stock of $28 million and payments on debt of $14 million. The Company also paid dividends of $92 million and withheld $18 million of shares to satisfy tax withholding obligations related to the payout of restricted stock units. During 2021, the Company issued debt of $2,386 million and €500 million consisting of Senior Notes of $1,200 million and €290 million, incremental term facilities of $1,075 million and €210 million, and an offering of $100 million aggregate principal amount of tax-exempt green bonds with net proceeds of $111 million used to reimburse GPIL for a portion of its CRB platform optimization project. Debt proceeds associated with the term loans and Senior Notes were used to redeem the 4.75 % Senior Notes due 2021 of $425 million, and borrowings under GPIL's senior secured credit facility of $1,200 million. The Company also paid $150 million toward the redemption of IP's ownership interest in GPIP, and $109 million Tax Receivable Agreement (TRA) payment related to the IP exit. Additionally, the Company made borrowings under revolving credit facilities primarily for capital spending, redemption of IP's ownership interest, and payments on debt of $16 million. The Company also paid dividends and distributions of $92 million and withheld $15 million of restricted stock units to satisfy tax withholding obligations related to the payout of restricted stock units.

Supplemental Guarantor Financial Information

As discussed in “Note 1 - Nature of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included herein under “Item 8., Financial Statements and Supplementary Data,” as a result of IP’s final exchange in 2021, the Company currently owns 100% of the outstanding interests in GPIP. GPIP continued to be treated as a partnership for U.S. federal and state income tax purposes despite IP’s exit as a minority partner until September 1, 2022, when, due to an internal restructuring, GPIP became a single member limited liability company, terminating the partnership for income tax purposes. Therefore, GPIL is no longer subject to separate SEC filing requirements. As such, the Company has included Supplemental Guarantor disclosures herein that were previously included in the GPIL SEC filings.

As further discussed in “Note 5 – Debt” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included herein under “Item 8., Financial Statements and Supplementary Data,” the Senior Notes issued by GPIL (the “Issuer”) are guaranteed by certain domestic subsidiaries (the “Subsidiary Guarantors”), which consist of all material 100% owned subsidiaries of GPIL, other than its foreign subsidiary holding companies, domestic subsidiaries and in certain instances by the Company (a Parent guarantee) (collectively "the Guarantors"). GPIL's remaining subsidiaries (the “Nonguarantor Subsidiaries”) include all of GPIL’s foreign subsidiary holding companies, foreign subsidiaries and immaterial domestic subsidiaries. The Subsidiary Guarantors are jointly and severally, fully and unconditionally liable under the guarantees.

Other than tax related items, the results of operations, assets, and liabilities for GPHC and GPIL are substantially the same. Therefore, the summarized financial information below is presented on a combined basis, consisting of GPIL and Subsidiary Guarantors (collectively, the “Obligor Group”), and is presented after the elimination of: (i) intercompany transactions and balances among GPIL and Subsidiary Guarantors, and (ii) equity in earnings from and investments in the Nonguarantor Subsidiaries.

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In millions	Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2022
SUMMARIZED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
Net Sales(a)	$	7,274
Cost of Sales	5,878
Income from Operations	829
Net Income	655

(a) Includes Net Sales to Nonguarantor Subsidiaries of $534 million.


In millions	December 31, 2022
SUMMARIZED BALANCE SHEET
Current assets (excluding intercompany receivable from Nonguarantor)	$	1,386
Noncurrent assets	5,852
Intercompany receivables from Nonguarantors	1,399
Current liabilities	1,355
Noncurrent liabilities	5,360

Covenant Restrictions

Covenants contained in the Current Credit Agreement and the Indentures may, among other things, limit the ability to incur additional indebtedness, restrict the ability of the Company to dispose of assets, incur guarantee obligations, prepay other indebtedness, repurchase shares, pay dividends and make other restricted payments, create liens, make equity or debt investments, make acquisitions, modify terms of the indentures under which the Notes are issued, engage in mergers or consolidations, change the business conducted by the Company and its subsidiaries, and engage in certain transactions with affiliates. Such restrictions, together with disruptions in the credit markets, could limit the Company's ability to respond to changing market conditions, fund its capital spending program, provide for unexpected capital investments or take advantage of business opportunities.

Under the terms of the Current Credit Agreement, the Company must comply with a maximum Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio covenant and a minimum Consolidated Interest Expense Ratio covenant. The Current Credit Agreement, which contains the definitions of these covenants, was filed as an exhibit to the Company's Form 8-K filed on April 1, 2021.

Due to the completion of a material acquisition, the Current Credit Agreement requires that the Company maintain a maximum Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio of less than 5.00 to 1.00. At December 31, 2022, the Company was in compliance with such covenant and the ratio was 3.04 to 1.00.

The Company must also comply with a minimum Consolidated Interest Expense Ratio of 3.00 to 1.00. At December 31, 2022, the Company was in compliance with such covenant and the ratio was 8.44 to 1.00.

As of December 31, 2022, the Company's credit was rated BB+ by Standard & Poor's and Ba1 by Moody's Investor Services. Standard & Poor's and Moody's Investor Services' ratings on the Company included a stable outlook.

Capital Investment

The Company’s capital investments in 2022 were $430 million ($549 million was paid), compared to $899 million ($802 million was paid) in 2021. During 2022, the Company had capital spending of $386 million for adding capacity and improving process capabilities, $17 million for capital spares and $27 million for manufacturing packaging machinery.

Interest is capitalized on assets under construction for one year or longer with an estimated spending of $1 million or more. The capitalized interest is recorded as part of the asset to which it relates and is amortized over the asset’s estimated useful life. Capitalized interest was $5 million and $14 million as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

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Environmental Matters

Some of the Company’s current and former facilities are the subject of environmental investigations and remediations resulting from historical operations and the release of hazardous substances or other constituents. Some current and former facilities have a history of industrial usage for which investigation and remediation obligations may be imposed in the future or for which indemnification claims may be asserted against the Company. Also, closures or sales of facilities may necessitate further investigation and may result in remediation at those facilities. The Company has established reserves for those facilities or issues where liability is probable and the costs are reasonably estimable.

For further discussion of the Company’s environmental matters, see "Note 14 - Environmental and Legal Matters" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included herein under “Item 8., Financial Statements and Supplementary Data."

International Operations

The Company has converting plants and one paper mill in 21 countries outside of the U.S. and sells its products worldwide. For 2022, before intercompany eliminations, net sales from operations outside of the U.S. represented approximately 29% of the Company’s net sales. The Company’s revenues from export sales fluctuate with changes in foreign currency exchange rates. In addition, at December 31, 2022, approximately 29% of the Company's total assets were denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. The Company has significant operations in countries that use the Euro, British pound sterling, Swedish krona, Polish zloty, the Australian dollar, the Canadian dollar, the Mexico peso or the Japanese yen as their functional currencies. The effect of changes in the U.S. dollar exchange rate against these currencies produced a net currency translation adjustment loss of $148 million, which was recorded in Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income for the year ended December 31, 2022. The magnitude and direction of this adjustment in the future depends on the relationship of the U.S. dollar to other currencies. The Company pursues a currency hedging program in order to reduce the impact of foreign currency exchange fluctuations on financial results. See “Financial Instruments” below.

Financial Instruments

The Company pursues a currency hedging program which utilizes derivatives to reduce the impact of foreign currency exchange fluctuations on its consolidated financial results. Under this program, the Company has previously entered into forward exchange contracts in the normal course of business to hedge certain foreign currency denominated transactions. Realized and unrealized gains and losses on these forward contracts are included in the measurement of the basis of the related foreign currency transaction when recorded. The Company also pursues a hedging program that utilizes derivatives designed to manage risks associated with future variability in cash flows and price risk related to future energy cost increases. Under this program, the Company has entered into natural gas swap contracts to hedge a portion of its forecasted natural gas usage for 2023. Realized gains and losses on these contracts are included in the financial results concurrently with the recognition of the commodity consumed. In addition, the Company has previously used interest rate swaps to manage interest rate risks on future interest payments caused by interest rate changes on its variable rate term loan facility. The Company does not hold or issue financial instruments for trading purposes. See “Item 7A., Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure About Market Risk.”

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

The Company does not have any off-balance sheet arrangements.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING JUDGEMENTS AND ESTIMATES

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of net sales and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from these estimates, and changes in these estimates are recorded when known. The critical accounting policies used by management in the preparation of the Company’s consolidated financial statements are those that are important both to the presentation of the Company’s financial condition and results of operations and require significant judgments by management with regard to estimates used. The critical judgments by management relate to acquisitions, pension benefits, future cash flows associated with impairment testing for goodwill and long-lived assets, and deferred income taxes.

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Acquisitions

The Company uses the acquisition method of accounting for acquired businesses. Under the acquisition method of accounting, the Company allocated the purchase consideration to the tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values on the date of the acquisition. Any excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair values of the identifiable net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. Any excess of the estimated fair values of the identifiable net assets over the purchase price is recorded as a gain on bargain purchase. The estimates used to determine the fair value of long-lived assets, such as intangible assets, can be complex and require significant judgments. Therefore, we use information available to us to make fair value determinations and often engage independent valuation specialists, when necessary, to assist in the fair value determination of significant, acquired long-lived assets. The determination of fair value requires estimates about discount rates, growth and retention rates, royalty rates, expected future cash flows and other future events that are judgmental in nature. While we use our best estimates and assumptions as a part of the purchase price allocation process, our estimates are inherently uncertain and subject to refinement. As a result, during the measurement period, which may be up to one year from the acquisition date, we are permitted to record adjustments to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, with the corresponding offset to goodwill. Upon the conclusion of the measurement period or final determination of the values of assets acquired or liabilities assumed, whichever comes first, any subsequent adjustments are recorded to our consolidated statements of income. The Company is also required to estimate the useful lives of intangible assets to determine the amount of acquisition-related intangible asset amortization expense to record in future periods. Such useful lives are determined based upon the expected period of future cash flows to be generated by the intangible asset. The Company periodically reviews the estimated useful lives assigned to our intangible assets to determine whether such estimated useful lives continue to be appropriate.

On November 1, 2021, the Company completed its acquisition of AR Packaging (the “Transaction”), through the acquisition of all of the shares of AR Packaging for cash of $1,412 million, net of cash acquired of $75 million. AR Packaging’s results of operations have been included in the Company’s financial results since the acquisition date. The Company allocated the fair value of purchase consideration transferred to the tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values on the date of the acquisition. The Company identified that the acquired assets included customer relationships, which were assigned a fair value of $439 million using a discounted cash flow analysis. During the fourth quarter of 2022, the Company finalized acquisition accounting, which resulted in a decrease of $38 million to customer relationships. Significant assumptions in valuing this asset included the discount rate, annual revenue growth rates, customer attrition rates, projected operating expenses, projected earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization ("EBITDA") margins, tax rate, depreciation, contributory asset charge, and future earnings projections among others. The Company believes the estimates applied to be based on reasonable assumptions, but which are inherently uncertain. As a result, actual results may differ from the assumptions and judgments used to determine fair value of the assets acquired, which could result in material impairment losses in the future. Additional information regarding our acquisitions is included in "Note 4 - Business Combinations" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included herein under “Item 8., Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

Goodwill

The Company evaluates goodwill for potential impairment annually as of October 1, as well as whenever events or changes in circumstances suggest that the fair value of a reporting unit may no longer exceed its carrying amount. Potential impairment of goodwill is measured at the reporting unit level by comparing the reporting unit’s carrying amount, including goodwill, to the estimated fair value of the reporting unit. As of October 1, 2022, the Company had seven reporting units, five of which had goodwill.

Periodically, the Company may perform a qualitative impairment analysis of goodwill associated with each of its reporting units to determine if it is more likely than not that the carrying value of a reporting unit exceeded its fair value. If the results of the qualitative analysis of any of the reporting units is inconclusive, or if significant changes in the business have occurred since the last quantitative impairment assessment, the Company will perform a quantitative analysis for those reporting units.

As of October 1, 2022, the Company performed a quantitative impairment test. The quantitative analysis involves calculating the fair value of each reporting unit by utilizing a discounted cash flow analysis based on the Company’s business plans, discounted using a weighted average cost of capital and market indicators of terminal year cash flows based upon a multiple of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA").

Estimating the fair value of the reporting unit involves uncertainties as it requires management to consider a number of factors, including but not limited to, future operating results, business plans, economic projections of revenues and operating margins, estimated future cash flows, and market data and analysis, including market capitalization. Fair value determinations are sensitive to changes in the factors described above. There are inherent uncertainties related to these factors and judgments used to estimate reporting unit fair value and the related analysis of potential goodwill impairment.

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The variability of the assumptions that management uses to perform the goodwill impairment test depends on a number of conditions, including uncertainty about future events and cash flows. Accordingly, the Company’s accounting estimates may materially change from period to period due to changing market factors. If the Company had used other assumptions and estimates or if different conditions occur in future periods, future operating results and cash flows could be materially impacted, and judgments and conclusions about the recoverability of goodwill could change. The assumptions used in the goodwill impairment testing process could also be adversely impacted by certain of the risks discussed in “Item 1A., Risk Factors” and thus could result in future goodwill impairment charges.

The Company performed its annual goodwill impairment tests as of October 1, 2022. The Company concluded that all reporting units with goodwill have a fair value that exceeds their carrying value, and thus goodwill was not impaired. The discount rate used for each reporting unit ranged from 7.5% to 9.0%, and we utilized a transaction multiple of 9.1 times to calculate terminal period cash flows. The Foodservice and Europe reporting units had fair values that exceed their respective carrying values by 83% and 42%, respectively, whereas all other reporting units exceeded by more than 50%. If we had concluded that it was appropriate to increase the discount rate we used by 100 basis points to estimate the fair value of our respective reporting units, the fair value of each reporting unit would have continued to exceed its carrying amount. The Foodservice and Europe reporting units had goodwill totaling $43 million and $481 million, respectively. The Company does not believe it is likely that there will be material changes in the assumptions or estimates used to calculate the reporting unit fair values.

In the second quarter of 2022, the Company began the process of divesting its interests in its two folding carton plants in Russia. The Company reviewed the goodwill assigned to these facilities for impairment and recorded a $12 million non-cash impairment charge, thereby reducing the carrying value of goodwill for these facilities to zero. This charge was recorded within Business Combinations, Shutdown and Other Special Charges, and Exit Activities, Net in the Company's Consolidated Statements of Operations within its European Paperboard Packaging reporting unit. Refer to "Note 19 - Impairment and Divestiture of Russian Business" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Assets Held for Sale

When assets are identified by management as held for sale, the Company discontinues depreciating the assets and estimates the sales price, net of expected selling costs, of such assets. The Company generally considers assets (as identified by their disposal groups) to be held for sale when the transaction has received appropriate corporate authority, they are probable of being sold within the next twelve months, and there are no significant contingencies relating to a sale. If, in management’s opinion, the estimated net sales price, net of expected selling costs, of the disposal groups which have been identified as held for sale is less than the carrying value of the assets, a valuation allowance (which is recorded as unrealized losses on the disposition) is established. In the absence of an executed sales agreement with a set sales price, management’s estimate of the net sales price may be based on a number of assumptions, including but not limited to the Company’s estimates of future cash flows, market capitalization rates and discount rates, if applicable. In accordance with the held for sale criteria, the Company classified its two folding carton plants in Russia as held for sale in the second quarter of 2022 and recorded a non-cash impairment charge of $84 million in 2022 in addition to the goodwill impairment of $12 million. This charge was recorded within Business Combinations, Shutdown and Other Special Charges, and Exit Activities, Net in the Company's Consolidated Statements of Operations within its European Paperboard Packaging reporting unit. The Company expects to complete the sale of its Russian operations within the next six months and will continue to evaluate the valuation until the sale is completed. Refer to "Note 19 - Impairment and Divestiture of Russian Business" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Recovery of Long-Lived Assets

The Company evaluates the recovery of its long-lived assets by analyzing operating results and considering significant events or changes in the business environment that may have triggered impairment. The Company reviews long-lived assets (including property, plant and equipment and intangible assets) for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such long-lived assets may not be fully recoverable by undiscounted cash flows. Measurement of the impairment loss, if any, is based on the fair value of the asset, which is determined by an income, cost or market approach.

Deferred Income Taxes and Potential Assessments

According to the Income Taxes topic of the FASB Codification, a valuation allowance is required to be established or maintained when, based on currently available information and other factors, it is more likely than not that all or a portion of a deferred tax asset will not be realized. The FASB Codification provides important factors in determining whether a deferred tax asset will be realized, including whether there has been sufficient taxable income in recent years and whether sufficient income can reasonably be expected in future years in order to utilize the deferred tax asset. The Company has evaluated the need to maintain a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets based on its assessment of whether it is more likely than not that deferred tax benefits would be realized through the generation of future taxable income. Appropriate consideration was given to all available evidence, both positive and negative, in assessing the need for a valuation allowance. In determining whether a valuation allowance is required, many factors are considered, including the specific taxing jurisdiction, the carryforward period, reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, cumulative pretax book earnings, income tax strategies and forecasted earnings for the entities in each jurisdiction.

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As of December 31, 2022, the Company has a valuation allowance of $57 million against its net deferred tax assets in certain foreign jurisdictions and against domestic deferred tax assets related to certain federal tax credit carryforwards, certain state net operating loss carryforwards and certain state tax credit carryforwards. As of December 31, 2021, a total valuation allowance of $38 million was recorded.

As of December 31, 2022, the Company has provided for deferred U.S. income taxes attributable to future withholding tax expense related to the Company's equity investment in the joint venture, Rengo Riverwood Packaging, Ltd. In addition, the Company provided deferred income taxes for future Canadian withholding tax to the extent of excess cash available for distribution after consideration of working capital needs and other debt settlement of its Canadian subsidiary, Graphic Packaging International Canada, ULC. The Company continues to assert that it is permanently reinvested in the cumulative earnings of its Canadian subsidiary in excess of the amount of cash that is on hand and available for distribution after consideration of working capital needs and other debt settlement. The Company determined that no deferred tax liability should be recorded related to the outside basis difference of its Canadian subsidiary as of December 31, 2022.

The Company has not provided for deferred U.S. income taxes on outside basis differences of approximately $44 million in its other international subsidiaries because of the Company’s intention to indefinitely reinvest these earnings outside the U.S. The determination of the amount of the unrecognized deferred income tax liability (primarily withholding tax in certain jurisdictions) on the unremitted earnings or any other associated outside basis differences is not practicable because of the complexities associated with the calculation.

The Company has elected to recognize global intangible low-taxed income (“GILTI”) as a period cost as incurred, therefore there are no deferred taxes recognized for basis differences that are expected to impact the amount of the GILTI inclusion upon reversal.

NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

For a discussion of recent accounting pronouncements impacting the Company, see "Note 1 - Nature of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included herein under “Item 8., Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

BUSINESS OUTLOOK

Total capital investment for 2023 is expected to be in the range of 7% to 8% of sales.

The Company also expects the following in 2023:

• Depreciation and amortization expense, including pension amortization, of approximately $570 million.

• Pension plan contributions between $15 million and $25 million.

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ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK

The Company does not trade or use derivative instruments with the objective of earning financial gains on interest or currency rates, nor does it use leveraged instruments or instruments where there are no underlying exposures identified.

Interest Rates

The Company is exposed to changes in interest rates, primarily as a result of its short-term and long-term debt, which include both fixed and floating rate debt. The Company has previously used interest rate swap agreements effectively to fix the LIBOR rate on certain variable rate borrowings. At December 31, 2022, the Company had no outstanding interest rate swaps.

The table below sets forth interest rate sensitivity information related to the Company’s debt.

Long-Term Debt Principal Amount by Maturity-Average Interest Rate


	Expected Maturity Date
In millions	2023	2024	2025	2026	2027	Thereafter	Total		Fair Value
Total Debt
Fixed Rate	$—	$713	$—	$509	$300	$1,936	$	3,458	$	3,140
Average Interest Rate	—%	2.41%	2.25%	2.04%	4.75%	3.23%
Variable Rate	$26	$39	$39	$1,285	$—	$250	$	1,639	$	1,609
	SOFR+Spread	SOFR+Spread	SOFR+Spread	SOFR+Spread		SOFR+ Spread	—		—

Foreign Exchange Rates

The Company has previously entered into forward exchange contracts to manage risks associated with foreign currency transactions and future variability of cash flows arising from those transactions that may be adversely affected by changes in exchange rates. The contracts are carried at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss and gains/losses related to these contracts are recognized in Other Expense (Income), Net or Net Sales, when appropriate.

As of December 31, 2022 and 2021, the Company had no outstanding forward exchange contracts. As of December 31, 2020, multiple forward exchange contracts existed that expired on various dates throughout the following year

No amounts were reclassified to earnings during 2022, 2021 or 2020 in connection with forecasted transactions that were considered probable of not occurring and there was no amount of ineffectiveness related to changes in the fair value of foreign currency forward contracts. Additionally, there were no amounts excluded from the measure of effectiveness during 2022, 2021 or 2020.

The Company has not entered into any foreign exchange contracts in 2022.

Net Investment Hedge

On October 29, 2021 and November 19, 2021, the Company drew the full amount of the €210 million delayed draw term loan facility and completed a private offering of €290 million aggregate principal amount of the 2.625% senior unsecured notes due 2029, respectively. The Company designated this Euro-denominated debt as a non-derivative net investment hedge of a portion of our net investment in Euro functional currency denominated subsidiaries to offset currency fluctuations.

Derivatives not Designated as Hedges

The Company enters into forward exchange contracts to effectively hedge substantially all receivables resulting from transactions denominated in foreign currencies. The purpose of these forward exchange contracts is to protect the Company from the risk that the eventual functional currency cash flows resulting from the collection of these receivables will be adversely affected by changes in exchange rates. At December 31, 2022, multiple foreign currency forward exchange contracts existed, with maturities ranging up to three months. Those forward currency exchange contracts outstanding at December 31, 2022, when aggregated and measured in U.S. dollars at December 31, 2022 contractual rates, had net notional amounts totaling $111 million. The Company continuously monitors these forward exchange contracts and adjusts accordingly to minimize the exposure.

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Deal Contingent Hedge

On May 14, 2021, in connection with the AR Packaging acquisition, the Company entered into deal contingent foreign exchange forward contracts, with no upfront cash cost, to hedge €700 million of the acquisition price. These forward contracts settled October 29, 2021, immediately prior to the acquisition of AR Packaging and are accounted for as derivatives under ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging. Realized losses of $48 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 resulting from these contracts are recognized in Business Combinations, Shutdown and Other Special Charges, and Exit Activities, Net on the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations. For more information, see "Note 1 - General Information" of the Company's 2021 Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021.

Natural Gas Contracts

The Company has hedged a portion of its expected natural gas usage for 2023. The carrying amount and fair value of the natural gas swap contracts is a net liability of $12 million as of December 31, 2022. Such contracts are designated as cash flow hedges and are accounted for by deferring the quarterly change in fair value of the outstanding contracts in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss in Shareholders’ Equity. The resulting gain or loss is reclassified into Cost of Sales concurrently with the recognition of the commodity consumed.

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ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


			Page
GRAPHIC PACKAGING HOLDING COMPANY
Consolidated Statements of Operations for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2022			40
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2022			41
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2022 and 2021			41
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2022			43
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2022			44
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements			45
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP PCAOB ID No. 238)			85

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GRAPHIC PACKAGING HOLDING COMPANY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS


	Year Ended December 31,
In millions, except per share amounts	2022		2021		2020
Net Sales	$	9,440	$	7,156	$	6,560
Cost of Sales	7,610		6,085		5,460
Selling, General and Administrative	774		528		513
Other (Income) Expense, Net	19		(2)		2
Business Combinations, Shutdown and Other Special Charges, and Exit Activities, Net	131		138		61
Income from Operations	906		407		524
Nonoperating Pension and Postretirement Benefit Income (Expense)	7		5		(151)
Interest Expense, Net	(197)		(123)		(129)

Income before Income Taxes and Equity Income of Unconsolidated Entity	716		289		244
Income Tax Expense	(194)		(74)		(42)
Income before Equity Income of Unconsolidated Entity	522		215		202
Equity Income of Unconsolidated Entity	—		1		1
Net Income	$	522	$	216	$	203
Net Income Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	—		(12)		(36)
Net Income Attributable to Graphic Packaging Holding Company	$	522	$	204	$	167

Net Income Per Share Attributable to Graphic Packaging Holding Company — Basic	$	1.69	$	0.69	$	0.60
Net Income Per Share Attributable to Graphic Packaging Holding Company — Diluted	$	1.69	$	0.68	$	0.60

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

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GRAPHIC PACKAGING HOLDING COMPANY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME


Year Ended December 31,
2022
In millions	Graphic Packaging Holding Company		Noncontrolling Interest		Total
Net Income	$	522	$	—	$	522
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Derivative Instruments	4		—		4
Pension and Postretirement Benefit Plans	(9)		—		(9)
Currency Translation Adjustment	(148)		(1)		(149)


Total Other Comprehensive Loss, Net of Tax	(153)		(1)		(154)
Total Comprehensive Income (Loss)	$	369	$	(1)	$	368
Year Ended December 31,
2021
Net Income	$	204	$	12	$	216
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax:
Derivative Instruments	5		1		6
Pension and Postretirement Benefit Plans	45		—		45
Currency Translation Adjustment	(28)		—		(28)
Total Other Comprehensive Income, Net of Tax	22		1		23
Total Comprehensive Income	$	226	$	13	$	239












Year Ended December 31,
2020
In millions	Graphic Packaging Holding Company		Noncontrolling Interest		Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest		Total
Net Income (Loss)	$	167	$	39	$	(3)	$	203
Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income, Net of Tax:
Derivative Instruments	4		1		—		5
Pension and Postretirement Benefit Plans	100		29		10		139
Currency Translation Adjustment	17		2		(1)		18
Total Other Comprehensive Income, Net of Tax	121		32		9		162
Total Comprehensive Income	$	288	$	71	$	6	$	365

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

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GRAPHIC PACKAGING HOLDING COMPANY

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS


	December 31,
In millions, except share and per share amounts	2022		2021
ASSETS
Current Assets:
Cash and Cash Equivalents	$	150	$	172
Receivables, Net	879		859
Inventories, Net	1,606		1,387

Other Current Assets	71		84

Total Current Assets	2,706		2,502
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net	4,579		4,677
Goodwill	1,979		2,015
Intangible Assets, Net	717		868
Other Assets	347		395
Total Assets	$	10,328	$	10,457

LIABILITIES
Current Liabilities:
Short-Term Debt and Current Portion of Long-Term Debt	$	53	$	279
Accounts Payable	1,123		1,125
Compensation and Employee Benefits	295		211
Interest Payable	51		35
Other Accrued Liabilities	411		399
Total Current Liabilities	1,933		2,049
Long-Term Debt	5,200		5,515
Deferred Income Tax Liabilities	668		579
Accrued Pension and Postretirement Benefits	111		139
Other Noncurrent Liabilities	266		282

Commitments (Note 13)

SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Preferred Stock, par value $.01 per share; 100,000,000 shares authorized; no shares issued or outstanding	—		—
Common Stock, par value $.01 per share; 1,000,000,000 shares authorized; 307,116,089 and 307,103,551 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively	3		3
Capital in Excess of Par Value	2,054		2,046
Retained Earnings	469		66
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	(377)		(224)
Total Graphic Packaging Holding Company Shareholders' Equity	2,149		1,891
Noncontrolling Interest	1