Antalis has been Arjowiggins’ worldwide distributor and partner for its Creative Papers portfolio since the merchanting group was formed in 2000 by the demerger of the then Anglo-French Arjowiggins Appleton distribution business.
The buy also includes the Rives, Opale, Creative Labels, Delos and Village ranges.
Administrators were appointed at ten Arjowiggins businesses based in the UK in September.
Last month, Printweek revealed that, sadly, an asset sale and complete shutdown of its two UK mills seemed to be the most likely outcome with no buyer willing to take on Arjo’s manufacturing side.
Following an Arjowiggins announcement about the Antalis deal, Arjowiggins CEO Jonathan Mitchell posted on Twitter: “It has been an honour to lead the team of truly passionate paper lovers and I deeply regret that we were unable to overcome the series of challenges we faced in the last few years. I know more than anyone how hard the whole team fought to find a solution.
“I am delighted that the story of our fantastic brands will enter a new chapter with the very capable team at Antalis,” he said.
Mitchell wished everyone the best for the future, and added: “I'd like to reiterate the thanks to all of those who've supported us and have been a part of the long history with a special and sincere thanks to a fantastic, passionate and dedicated team of employees without whom nothing would have been possible.”
The Arjowiggins Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest accounts will be managed by Antalis teams in the future. Arjowiggins said this would “ensure the continuity of the beautiful content that we have enjoyed sharing with you over the years”.
“We would like to take the time to thank you all – our customers, suppliers, partners and collaborators, for your support and loyalty over the years. It has been a pleasure serving you and sharing our love of paper, print and design with you.”
Further details, such as where the papers will be manufactured in future, were unavailable at the time of writing, with Antalis expected to provide an update shortly.
A paper industry expert commented: “That’s going to be interesting because all paper mills are busy, so whereas in the past mills would have been falling over themselves to get the tonnage they really don’t need it now, especially if the mill is selling its own brands.”
The expert noted that potential partners such as Fedrigoni and James Cropper already have either their own competing products or an existing merchant partnership.
Fedrigoni confirmed the purchase of the former Arjowiggins Guarro Casas mill in Spain last month.
Arjowiggins has two historic mills in the UK: Stoneywood in Aberdeen and Chartham in Kent.
The Arjo businesses employed 463 people in the UK, and 368 were made redundant immediately at the time of the administration.
Chartham has been making paper since 1738, and Stoneywood since 1770.
