According to Two Sides, only 16% of European consumers understand the high recycling rate of paper Paper Solutions January / February 2023 50 paper are something we are considering, similar to what HP does with HP Instant Ink.” Like in the production of paper, printers are experimenting with the way they operate. Previous supply issues saw businesses buy in bulk and focus efforts on keeping a reserve of stock rather than risk high wait times. Melville adds: “We respect the different channels and the value they add, and I am convinced we can reach all customer demographics. We saw a surge in online and retail sales when the pandemic hit, but we have also seen those channels rebalance.” The biggest focus for all businesses and especially the paper industry going forward, however, is sustainability. Percival says: “Helping our customers make informed decisions on environmental and material choices is of the utmost importance. To help customers improve their sustainability, we have broadened the range of products that are covered by our Green Star System, and all substrates purchased from Antalis are available to carbon offset via our leading carbon capture schemes.” Melvillle agrees, adding: “We focus mainly on our REY and HP Papers brands in Europe. We call REY ‘The Conscious Choice,’ which is sold in more than 40 countries and is perfect for customers who value sustainability and social responsibility, which are becoming increasingly important. We are also HP’s exclusive global supplier of HP Papers, which we distribute to 75 countries. HP is an ideal brand for the e-commerce and retail channels, and we work closely with HP to link this range to the complete HP value proposition of printers, toners, and papers.” Aside from paper being highly recyclable, the process and operations surrounding it need to echo the same green messages paper carries. When seeking sustainable materials businesses can no longer hide behind claims of recyclability but must carry green approaches in every part of the business. For Sylvamo this meant launching HP Earth First, a way of further committing the company to a promise to produce paper in the most responsible and sustainable ways. Melville explains: “HP Earth First has the same attributes as all HP Papers and is suitable for a range of applications and dayto-day office needs. “With HP Earth First, our climate-neutral product, we aim to contribute to the fight against climate change. Sustainability is one of our core values and we are committed to reducing our footprint in the manufacturing process. With HP Earth First, Sylvamo has added many additional features. One of these is a paper wrapper, allowing it to be easily recycled.” Green certainly is the future of all industries and the planet. Paper mills work hard to change energy sources, transportation, and the sourcing of their products in order to become a truly influential sector. Businesses can adopt these similar methods, but also choose the right products, ensuring as little waste is left at the end of the job as possible. Despite the fact a product can be recycled, the energy required to create a product must still be considered when assessing the effect that product has had on the environment. Working with paper merchants, resellers, and manufacturers can mean businesses can find the right materials for their jobs, as well as carry over innovations and practices that can better their company and working lives. Premier’s diverse range of products has made it well suited to cater to a range of markets. As part of the OVOL Japan Pulp & Paper Group which consists of 112 companies across 21 countries, the Group is a specialist paper trading business. Regarding Premier’s UK presence, Goldsmith says: “We operate with a nationwide distribution network, stocking over 30,000 tonnes of product; delivered on our own fleet of over 120 vehicles next day, throughout the UK.” Similarly, Antalis has also seen similar developments in e-commerce packaging: “The digital print market continues to grow, and even with the challenging economic situation, we are seeing some exciting developments, particularly in online ecommerce with high degrees of personalisation adding value to the customer’s unboxing experience,” says Percival. “Antalis is seeing a continued strong demand for paper-based alternatives to plastics, as well as shorter runs with complex finishing that utilise data for more effective targeting. This provides increased engagement and ultimately, a better return on investment for focussed campaigns.” There have been many lessons for businesses over the past few years, with one being to hone your skills and strengths, rather than over-stretching yourself. As seen in sectors like retail, business decisions and products are now based on the experience and the quality of the product, rather than its quantity, hence the need for a wider range of premium papers and customisable solutions. 2024 and beyond A key component of paper distributors is the relationship with customers, and the quality required to keep good relationships. Sylvamo has seen changes in the needs and working practices of its customers and is continuing to evolve in order to address changes. Melville comments: “We believe there will be a combination of working from home and the office well into the future. We are confident that we have great solutions for both environments. For example, we launched an HP Papers three-ream box targeted at remote workers. We continue to explore opportunities that allow us to cater to changing customer needs. Subscription models for Subscription models for paper are something we are considering, similar to what HP does with HP Instant Ink
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