Ball reduces stake in Saudi Arabia JV to sharpen packaging focus

Ball

Ball reduces stake in Saudi Arabia JV to streamline its portfolio. The Ball reduces stake in Saudi Arabia JV move sells 41% of UAC to ORG for $70mn. Ball retains 10%, preserving market access while cutting costs and complexity.

Portfolio reshaping and regional strategy

Ball reduces stake in Saudi Arabia JV as part of broader optimization. The company prioritizes higher-margin segments and stable regions. Therefore, it trims exposure while keeping strategic presence with a minority hold. Ball earlier formed Oasis Venture Holdings with Ayna.AI. It reduced its aluminum cups stake to 49% to share risk and accelerate scale.

What the UAC change means for customers and supply

UAC runs a 1.8bn cans per year plant serving Coca-Cola. The new structure likely sustains output while improving cost discipline. Meanwhile, ORG strengthens its Middle East footprint. Ball’s Q2 shipments rose 4.3% year over year. Profit increased 34% to $215mn, and revenue climbed 13% to $3.3bn, supporting the strategy.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Ball’s minority stance keeps Saudi market access without heavy capital. Watch Middle East can premiums, regional utilization, and ORG’s procurement strategy as the JV rebalances supplier power.