Cropper (J) Regulatory News (CRPR)

12 May 2009 09:54



Kendal paper-makers James Cropper launch new online paper channel

12 May 2009

Kendal paper-makers James Cropper plc have launched a new online destination for the sale of paper, card and related accessories. Paper Mill Direct (papermilldirect.co.uk), merges the activities of two businesses into a dynamic and colourful new website - the specialist inkjet paper and boards made by division James Cropper Converting, and the card, paper and craft ranges sold through subsidiary The Paper Mill Shop, which operates 24 stores throughout the UK.

"The solid growth of our existing online sales efforts - which started in 2006 - encouraged us to invest in a new platform", comments deputy chairman Mark Cropper. "The vision was to create an online store that not only made it easier for our customers to shop with us, but also presented our unique range of products in a fresh and exciting way that was more consistent with their quality and value".

Paper Mill Direct's product range is built around a wide range of paper, card and board that caters for many markets, including card-making, scrapbooking and photography. There are also growing ranges of wedding and business stationery, and more products being designed to appeal directly to artists, schools, families and children.

And the paper is truly direct, coming from the Cropper paper-mill in the foothills of the English Lake District where paper has been made since 1753. The Cropper family have been running the business since 1845, and there is no doubt in their mind that paper is here to stay, whatever the advocates of digital technology might say.

"In 1895 my great-great-great grandfather noted that "nothing seems to open out for itself to so many uses", and this is still true today", adds Mark Cropper. "He will have been amazed by our new sales channel - the internet - but he would not have been surprised that our papers were as popular as ever".

www.papermilldirect.co.uk

For more information:

Mark Cropper, Deputy Chairman, James Cropper plc - tel: 01539 722002

Tom Barker, Paper Mill Direct - tel: 015395 64952, email tom.barker@papermilldirect.co.uk