Klippan Paper chairman Jan Bernander has rebuffed claims that he is not talking to the Scottish papermaker (PrintWeek 20 April).


The Swede also told PrintWeek that he plans to stand for election to the Inveresk non-executive board.


Bernander also refuted claims that he was not keeping Inveresk informed of his share dealings and plans for the companies.


My associate, Alan Walker, who is also a board member of Klippan, and my legal advisers have all been in touch with Inveresk daily on my behalf with both Gerard Cassels and the directors, said Bernander.


Far from avoiding Inveresk, Bernander said he was waiting for an invitation to attend the groups next board meeting.


Bernander and his associates hold a 35% stake in Inveresk, on a par with his holding in Klippan, but he refused to comment on whether he planned to increase his interests.


Bernander felt his experience with Klippan would benefit Inveresk, with Klippan having been through a similar difficult time.


Inveresk finance director Gerard Cassels (pictured) confirmed that Bernander and Walker had put themselves forward for election to the non-executive board.


When we establish the appropriate dialogue with Bernander, we will invite him, said Cassels.


Cassels said he expected to see Bernander at the next AGM in the second half of May.


Bernander said his reasons for acquiring shares in Inveresk had been to enhance and rebuild the dialogue that started four years ago, prior to him joining Klippan.


Story by Andy Scott