James Cropper Fights Back with Launch of Own-Brand Coloured Paper Range
James Cropper uses a dyed-in-the-fibre papermaking process for depth of colour
James Cropper is poised to launch its own-brand range of coloured papers after its split from long-standing merchant partner GF Smith.
The Cumbrian papermaker and advanced materials specialist announced its plans this morning (21 July).
In an apparent sideswipe at GF Smith, James Cropper stated: "At a time when many suppliers are cutting back colour options or moving production overseas, James Cropper is doubling down on its UK roots, boldly bringing its range of more than 50 signature shades under one vibrant new brand that will be available direct from James Cropper as well as from select merchant partners."
GF Smith is understood to be partnering with Fedrigoni for production of its Colorplan range in future, although this has not been officially confirmed.
The merchant's website currently still describes Colorplan as being "made sustainably, in Great Britain".
Paul Barber, managing director of Paper & Packaging at James Cropper said the mill aimed to "own the future of colour in paper".
"This is not a refresh. This is a declaration," he asserted.
"We were the first to produce coloured paper, and we're proud of that legacy, but we're not here to look backwards – we're here to own the future of colour in paper. What we're planning has been refined over 50 years of proprietary fibre and colour formulations."
The "vibrant new brand" for the James Cropper coloured papers range has not been revealed as yet, but is promised "soon".
James Cropper will be offering more than 50 shades in what it described as a brand-led colour collection.
Barber added: "Even as the market changes, customers can still rely on James Cropper to provide unmatched vibrancy, durability, and performance – just as we always have."
James Cropper has been making paper since 1845 and lays claim to being the first mill to produce coloured paper using synthetic dyes, back in 1856.
The mill said that its dyed-in-the-fibre papermaking process produced an exceptional depth of colour and longevity "outperforming surface-printed alternatives at every stage of finishing".
James Cropper makes papers used for applications including stationery, publishing, packaging and retail bags. Its own-brand Vanguard range of coloured papers currently spans 28 shades. The firm also offers a bespoke papermaking service.
It runs three paper machines and has annual production capacity of approximately 45,000 tonnes.
Alongside the announcement the mill issued an open invitation for customers old and new to visit the 180-year-old mill at Burneside in the Lake District, situated within a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The PLC had sales of £99.3m in its most recent financial year, and is implementing a new operating model at its Paper & Packaging division under fresh CEO David Stirling.
GF Smith had not commented on its plans at the time of writing.