Three of Buhrmanns board members have purchased 58,000 of its shares in a move that is seen as an expression of confidence in the company.


"This is something the directors felt they wanted to do," said corporate communications manager Ewold de Bruijne. It follows the markets "negative reaction" to Buhrmanns second-quarter 2001 results, which showed a 23% fall in earnings to 76m.


"The move shows the board members are here to stay, and indicates their long-term commitment to the firm," said de Bruijne.


Buhrmann chief executive Frans Koffrie bought 50,000 shares, chief financial officer Floris Waller purchased 3,000 and executive board member George Dean purchased 5,000.