Leaders Hail a “Watershed Moment”
Rayonier CEO Mark McHugh called the deal a natural evolution for both companies, saying:
“Rayonier and PotlatchDeltic share a deep commitment to sustainability and a legacy of excellence in maximizing land resources. We are confident this merger will generate meaningful long-term value.”
PotlatchDeltic CEO Eric Cremers described the transaction as “a watershed moment,” emphasizing how complementary assets and shared vision will “unlock opportunities and create strategic and financial benefits beyond what either company could achieve alone.”
Advisors and Timeline
Legal heavyweights are steering the merger: Wachtell Lipton Rosen & Katz is advising Rayonier, with partner David K. Lam leading the team, while Latham & Watkins LLP is guiding PotlatchDeltic through partners Tad Freese, Tessa Bernhardt, and Darren Guttenberg.
On the financial side, Morgan Stanley & Co. is serving as Rayonier’s adviser, and BofA Securities is representing PotlatchDeltic.
The deal, structured as a merger of equals, is slated to close in late Q1 or early Q2 2026, pending shareholder and regulatory approvals.
