In November the merchanting group acquired a number of major brands from the administrators of Arjowiggins Scotland, its former manufacturing partner for the products.
In an update about its plans, Antalis said the move to alternative European fine papermakers was “progressing well”.
“Our first priority continues to be our commitment to provide our customers with the highest quality products. To do so, we carried out extensive analyses, product testing, benchmarking and onsite mill visits of numerous European Fine Papers manufacturers with the support of industrial experts, including former Arjowiggins specialists,” the firm said.
“We are now reaching the end of this phase and running preproduction trials.”
The Pop’Set coloured papers range will be integrated with the Olin Design range of natural coloured premium uncoated paper and board. Olin is suitable for offset and digital printing.
Pop’Set currently comprises of 31 shades from pastels to intense vibrant colours. The revamped range will continue to include envelopes.
First deliveries of the ‘new’ Olin Design family are scheduled for early February. “We have run many printing tests and are extremely confident that Olin will deliver the exceptional printing quality consistent with the brand’s reputation,” Antalis stated.
Regarding the Creative Papers brands, Antalis said its refreshed range – including “some new innovative items” – would be announced by the end of January, with deliveries slated for February and March.
The range comprises Conqueror, Keaykolour, Curious, Rives and Opale. Antalis said that following the switch to new makers it would be able to offer “the vast majority” of existing grades, colours and finishes.
“The high service level expected from Antalis continues to be our priority and we are making sure that our stock and indent offer will be comprehensive in all European countries thanks to our selected partnerships with key leading European fine papers manufacturers.
Alongside the brands, Antalis also acquired the vast majority of the remaining finished goods that had been made by Arjowiggins. This, combined with the inventory already held by the merchanting group, will be used to meet customer demand in the interim.
Antalis had been Arjowiggins’ worldwide distributor and partner for its Creative Papers portfolio since the merchanting group was formed in 2000.
Administrators were appointed at Arjowiggins’ UK businesses including its Stoneywood and Chartham mills in September. With no offers made to keep the mills in production, a complete shut down and asset sale followed.
