• MEET THE MILL: MONDI SCP
• PEFC EXPLAINED
• UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL: ALISTAIR NASH
• THE LEGAL EAGLE: COMPANIES HOUSE IDENTITY VERIFICATION
• A DAY IN THE LIFE OF AN ORDER
• HUMOUR: WORDS TO LIVE BY? ...AND MORE
2024/5 has been very difficult, as all mills and merchants globally face double digit volume and sales drops. Denmaur is no different from this so we have right sized our business to be more agile while also developing a wider sales and service initiative to support better customer care and delivery.
Our supply partners have played a huge part in supporting this market turmoil with new products and ventures for Denmaur, enabling a better product and service offer to our customers. As a TEAM, Denmaur will continue to diversify with paper and pulp products into new market areas, some with new partner suppliers and some with new products from existing partner suppliers. As we produce this edition of the mag, our business is seeing solid recovery. The market may not help, but our strategy will drive success.
Let me mention our areas of business, that have grown despite market decline.
Lamination Film – 10% year on year revenue growth. Brilliant work by Warren, Holly, and the wider support team. New customers each month and ever-growing ideas for new services and products.
Carton Board – No market decline, and in recent months 12% growth.
Reel Fast - An early part of our turnaround strategy, is now a highly regarded UK service product for most carton board customers, supported by our supplying mills.
Our enhanced production time and delivery capability for our suppliers and customers is only made possible by our brilliant conversion team at Bescot led by Alex Bradburn.
I must also make a special mention of Ben Ingall, our most solid ambassador of Denmaur to carton board customers. The wider team on the sales side, led by Clive and Michael Townsend, has now been joined by Mark Lees, and Kris Freer, bringing 139 years of carton board experience to Denmaur.
In terms of our conversion capability, the unsung hero is Tony Hardy transitioning from copier sales to conversion sales and bringing a wealth of technical knowledge along the way.
Commercial Print and Publication papers have been most affected by the market decline but, once again, new focus and leadership is growing back market share.
With Doug Jessop now retired, Julian Townsend leads the Publication team.
He, Paul Cooper and the wider team are making a real impact by aggressively working in all sectors of our business to pursue new revenue sources.
Commercial Print, led by Andy Faithful and now ably assisted by Alistair Nash, has seen a solid platform of growth in recent months.
With the implementation of our success strategy, service remains key as exemplified by the enhancement to our transport fleet (see p. 12) enabling better stock deliveries by taking our business closer to the customer.
And none of our strategy success would be possible without the great behind the scenes work in our accounts, IT, samples, and marketing departments, all of which have new developments planned. However, I want to highlight our credit team.This market environment post-pandemic is extremely challenging in terms of credit and cash collection but our debtor book has never looked better.
Finally, I sign off with a big thank you to the whole Denmaur team. It’s the best I have ever worked with.
With a missed summer edition of the mag, there is a lot to cover in this issue.
Our Meet the Mill section features Mondi’s mill producing paper and pulp in Slovakia.
We think you will also enjoy Laura Llewelyn’s article on the Program for Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) in “A View From the Outside” explaining how that program works and how it is often misrepresented.
And don’t miss getting to know some of our key employees better by reading the profiles of Alistair Nash in “Up Close and Personal” and the “Denmaur Family Corner” conversations with Chris Green and Sam Mills.
Do you know about Companies House identity verification requirement that started in November? No, then have a look at our in-house counsel’s brief alert about it in our new “The Legal Eagle” section.
Finally, we are trying something different with a multimedia approach to exactly what happens to a stock order from enquiry through fulfilment to delivery with our “A Day in the Life of An Order” feature.
And since our “Where’s Andy?” contest proved so popular, we’ve decided to have another one looking for the best Christmas costume worn to work. See details inside.
All of this and the usual department news, product spotlight, company tidbits and a splash of humour. What’s not to like?
This issue is printed on PEFC compliant Calisto Silk 300g/m2 (cover) and Extraprint 120g/m2 (inside).
The Editors themag@denmaur.com
THE OVERVIEW FROM THE EDITORS
MEET THE MILL: MONDI SCP A VIEW FROM THE OUTSIDE DID YOU KNOW? - Pt 1
UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL: ALISTAIR NASH
SUSTAINABILITY CENTRE
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: IQ RANGE
DEPARTMENT NEWS
DENMAUR FAMILY CORNER: CHRIS GREEN & SAM MILLS THE LEGAL EAGLE DID YOU KNOW? - Pt 2
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF AN ORDER LOOK WHO’S HAVING A BIRTHDAY
THE LONGEVITY LIST
HUMOUR: WORDS TO LIVE BY?
HUBSPOT CRM: IMPROVED CUSTOMER SERVICE
WORLD LAND TRUST
Mondi SCP in Ružomberok is one of Mondi’s largest plants and is the biggest integrated mill producing paper and pulp in the Slovak Republic. SCP stands for Severoslovenské celulózky a papierne which translates to ‘North Slovak pulp and paper mill’.
Paper production has a rich tradition in the region, spanning over 300 years, supported by abundant natural resources such as wood, water and energy.
Industrial-scale manufacturing began when Jakub Klein & Co was established in 1880, followed by a second mill in 1906. The two mills merged in the 1950s to form SCP. In 2000, Mondi Group acquired a majority stake and launched major investment programmes to increase capacity and improve environmental performance.
All wood used by Mondi SCP comes from certified, responsibly managed forests under FSC™ and PEFC schemes. The mill continues to reduce its environmental impact through innovation and sustainable practices, playing an integral part of Mondi Action Plan 2030 sustainability commitments.
Mondi SCP produces IQ PRINT which is an offset, uncoated paper grade designed for a wide range of highquality printed applications.
IQ PRINT is available through Denmaur (in the UK for next day delivery) in sheets from 80 –400g/m². The Mondi Neusiedler mill in Austria, produces IQ PREMIUM, a hybrid grade for offset, laser and inkjet applications, and IQ INDIGO for HP Indigo grades.
Again, these are high-quality, uncoated grades with high-end environmental credentials that are available through Denmaur in the UK. The entire IQ range is Carbon Balanced at Source via Denmaur.
Annual Production Capacity based on June 2025 figures in accordance with the CEPI 10 Toes framework for IQ PRINT
580,000 tonnes uncoated fine paper
310,000 tonnes container board
67,000 tonnes kraft paper
100,000 tonnes market pulp
534 Kgs CO2 per tonne of paper production
1300 Employees
Production and product certificates:
5 Paper Machines
* Carbon Balanced when purchased through Denmaur
** Cradle to Cradle Certified® is a registered trademark of the Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute.
Delivery Carbon
Footprint
CO2 calculations provided by the mill
Mill to Hoek Van Holland Hoek Van Holland to Harwich Harwich to Denmaur Bardon
By Laura Llewelyn, Marketing Manager PEFC UK
When people think about sustainable paper and board, the FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council) is often the first name that comes to mind. Its logo has become widely recognised by consumers and businesses alike. However, fewer people realise that the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) actually accounts for around three-quarters of all certified global forestry. In fact, PEFC is the world’s largest forest certification system, playing a central role in ensuring that forests are managed responsibly, sustainably and with long-term resilience in mind.
Today, more than 300 million hectares of forests are certified to PEFC standards - more than triple the area certified by FSC. Through a network of over 50 national members, including PEFC UK, the system adapts to local conditions while meeting strict international benchmarks. This decentralised approach allows PEFC to promote healthy forests, safeguard biodiversity, protect workers’ rights and support local communities. Its vision is clear: -
“Healthy and resilient forests, thriving biodiversity, fair working conditions and strong local communities.”
For businesses and consumers alike, PEFC also ensures traceability, providing confidence that paper and packaging materials are sourced from responsibly managed forests.
Both PEFC and FSC exist for the same purpose: to give assurance that wood and timber derived products –including paper and board - come from sustainable and ethical sources. Yet while they share these goals, there are important distinctions in their methods and scale: -
• Scale: PEFC is the largest certification system, covering more than 300 million hectares, compared with FSC’s just under 100 million hectares.
• Approach: FSC applies a single global standard, whereas PEFC works through national systems that adapt to local social, environmental and economic contexts. This makes PEFC highly inclusive and flexible, while still maintaining strict oversight.
• Recognition: Both schemes are internationally recognized, accepted under UK government procurement policies, the EU Ecolabel and within countless corporate sustainability frameworks.
• Flexibility: Many companies choose to hold dual certification in both PEFC and FSC. This helps them meet varied customer requirements and ensures flexibility within the supply chain.
So, which system is “better”? The reality is that both are credible, rigorous and complementary. Together, they provide the foundation for sustainable forestry worldwide. But it is PEFC, with its broader global reach and adaptable local approach, that underpins the majority of responsibly managed forests today.
For businesses, including those in the paper, packaging and publishing sectors, dual certification creates resilience. It avoids bottlenecks, ensures a consistent supply of certified materials and provides customer choice. Whether a brief specifies FSC or PEFC, products carrying either label meet robust, independent standards that protect forests and communities.
Opting for PEFC certified paper delivers a wide range of benefits. It offers independent credibility, global market acceptance, protection for ecosystems and support for social responsibility. Just as importantly, it builds consumer trust: the PEFC label provides a visible, simple assurance of sustainability.
Companies like Denmaur have taken a leadership role by providing customers with the widest possible choice of certified papers. By offering both FSC and PEFC certified products, Denmaur not only strengthens supply chain flexibility but also empowers customers to align their sourcing decisions with their sustainability goals.
In short, PEFC may be the quieter sibling in forest certification, but it is undeniably the bigger one and a standard that ensures the majority of the world’s forests are responsibly managed for generations to come.
We’re delighted to share that the Bardon warehouse has successfully regained its AA grade for BRCGS certification, thanks to the dedication of the team led by Andy Moore, Nimesh Amrat and Chris Green.
BRCGS (Brand Reputation Compliance Global Standards) is a globally recognised framework designed to protect brands and consumers. It sets rigorous requirements across food safety, packaging, storage and distribution, ensuring the highest levels of quality and compliance. With over 29,000 certified suppliers across 130 countries, BRCGS certification is a mark of trust throughout global supply chains.
Bardon has proudly held BRC/BRCGS accreditation since 2016. This plays a key role in supporting customers who rely on our materials for use in food and pharmaceutical packaging, providing them with the assurance that we meet strict industry standards. Throughout the year, our team also manages a steady flow of BRCGS compliance questionnaires from our customer base, reflecting the importance of maintaining this certification.
In August, Compliance and Training Manager Chris Green hosted two BRCGS auditors during a thorough two-day audit at Bardon. The successful outcome reflects our ongoing commitment to quality, safety and supply chain integrity. Well done to all.
In July, the company generously agreed to sponsor a football team that Alex Bradburn, Denmaur’s Conversion Manager, helped create over the summer: Sandwell Social FC.
Denmaur’s sponsorship has allowed Alex to kit out the squad with high-quality gear and build a strong, unified identity.
As Alex puts it, “The team has a real family atmosphere, which makes it even more meaningful.
It reminds me of Denmaur’s own roots and values and fills me with immense pride to play the sport I love each week while proudly wearing the name of the company I represent across my chest.”
Q&A WITH ALISTAIR NASH, SALES DIRECTOR, COMMERCIAL PRINT
Alistair started out as a management trainee at the John Lewis Partnership in Oxford Street but has really been in the paper industry almost all of his career.
His first paper job was with Robert Horne in 1988 working both inside and outside sales in their Tottenham branch. He then moved to Bunzl Fine Paper before becoming Sales Director at Masons Paper in 1994. He subsequently set up the corporate sales division at PaperlinX and was then promoted to be its Director of International Sales before moving on to Premier Paper to set up and run its corporate division.
He brought all of that wealth of experience to Denmaur in 2018 where he has contributed greatly to both the commercial print and publishing divisions.
When not working, Alistair enjoys the company of his three children James 31, Liam 29 and Charlotte 28. You can often find him watching Liam playing non-league football for Billericay Town (and at one-time, Gillingham). As a former player himself and subsequently until earlier this year, Alistair was Chairman of non-league football club Hillbridge Sports in Essex. Most recently, his son, Liam, made Alistair a grandfather for the first time with grandson, Freddy. When not on parent or grandparent duty, Alistair enjoys golf and kayaking and is looking to do some traveling in the future.
the mag caught up with Alistair at his Sittingbourne desk to query him on the following:
tm: With all of the different roles that you have played in the paper industry, what has been your favourite one? What do you like about your job now?
AN: I have always been customer facing. Selling into international markets had its challenges but also confirmed we do things well in the UK. Working for Denmaur takes me back to the days of Masons – independent family business with the best people – everyone is so friendly and supportive of each other – this makes the difference for me.
tm: The paper industry is going through some tough times lately, not only in the UK but globally. What do you think the future of the industry and Denmaur’s role in it will be, particularly regarding commercial print?
AN: The landscape has changed forever, unfortunately, so we must adapt and build new channels which brings new customers and potentially healthier margins. E- commerce B2B will play a big part in this. Denmaur with its ability to change quickly against its competition will win the day for us. The big print players, where we fit well, will continue to grow and the traditional small format print market will decline. I am highly optimistic that we will adapt and build with our core customers whilst we find the new channels. Collaboration is also a key factor – something we are working hard on.
tm: What role does sustainability play among commercial print customers? Is it a “must have” or just a “nice to have”?
AN: This is an ever-morphing category and is here to stay. Denmaur leads the paper industry and Danny (Doogan, Denmaur’s Director of Marketing and Sustainability) ensures that we stay ahead of the competition. It is a must have as we
continue to develop new products and services for our customers and our customers’ customers.
tm: Why should customers buy from Denmaur?
AN: It’s people, supported by product choice with a consistently reliable service. My favourite word is “Anticipation”, if you can anticipate customer needs – you have cracked it.
tm: Before you settled into the paper industry, what, as a child, did you see yourself doing when you grew up? Was it playing football as a career?
AN: I wanted to join the armed forces but was too much a mummy’s boy so went into retail!
tm: You mentioned travelling as one of your future activities. Where to and why?
AN: I am a bit odd as I love the cold more than hot holidays – going kayaking at Lofoten which is an archipelago at the top of Norway. I also want to white water raft down the Colorado – a bit of thrill seeking before I am too old. Have wet suit, will travel!
tm: If you won the Lottery tomorrow how would it change your life?
AN: Depending on the amount – would set my kids up for life – plus open a donkey sanctuary! (Would probably treat myself to a 5 litre V8 F Type Jag).
tm: Who would play you in the film”Denmaur”?
AN: I have been told many times I look like Ricky Gervais and David Cameron – so it would have to be Mr Gervais.
tm: What four people, dead or alive, would you invite to a dinner party you host?
AN: Christopher Hitchens - Winston Churchill – My Mum & Dad (Who sadly are not here).
tm: How would you do in a pub quiz? Any specialty topics (other than paper)?
AN: Geography-I would smash it. Literature-hopeless. Maybe anything in music up to 2010 – I seem to have lost my way with today’s stars.
tm: Tea or coffee? Lager, IPA or cider? Marmite or Bovril?
AN: Tea with honey! IPA and Bovril.
tm: What would family and friends say Alistair Nash is really like?
AN: Big Family Man and hopefully seen as loyal, dependable and good fun to be with.
tm: Looking back, how might you have lived life differently, if at all?
AN: I wanted to work and build a life with the family either in Canada or the US but it never played out –things would have been very different for sure.
BY DANNY DOOGAN
The rollout of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) has faced repeated delays and revisions as policymakers try to balance environmental ambition with practical realities. Since its adoption in 2023, several member states and industry groups have pushed for postponement, citing unready digital systems and the complexity of global supply chains, while environmental organisations have opposed any slowdown. The European Commission’s current compromise proposes to keep the December 2025 start date for larger firms, introducing some simplifications and allowing smaller businesses an extra year to comply.
For the UK print, publishing and paper conversion industry, these shifting timelines have caused ongoing uncertainty. Although the UK is no longer part of the EU, British companies exporting books, printed media, paper or board to the European market must still meet EUDR requirements. Each delay or reinstatement has required costly revisions to compliance plans and supplier agreements.
Under the new proposals, there will be a six-month supervisory or grace period from 30 December 2025, allowing authorities to phase in enforcement. Micro and small enterprises will have more time to meet their obligations.
The core regulation remains unchanged: every operator must run a risk-based due-diligence system that gathers product information, assesses the risk of deforestation or illegality, and addresses any remaining concerns before goods reach the EU market. All products must be proven both deforestation-free and legally produced, according to the same standards as in the original legislation.
Traceability continues to be central. Companies must collect accurate forestry geolocation data in their supply chain and maintain a transparent record from plot to finished product. However, the latest proposal clarifies that official Due Diligence Statements need only be submitted by the first company placing the goods on the EU market, reducing duplication within complex supply chains.
This change aims to prevent the EU’s TRACES IT system from becoming overloaded with multiple reference numbers for a single transaction. Recognising that this may still challenge customers, we are exploring a third-party compliance platform ( at the time of writing) to convert our “plotto-product” data into EU-ready reference and validation numbers, streamlining the process for downstream users.
These recent EUDR proposals remain subject to final approval by the European Parliament, expected in mid to late November 2025.
Denmaur now stock the IQ range for next day, nationwide delivery.
The three distinctive uncoated paper grades: IQ Print, IQ Premium and IQ Indigo are manufactured by the Mondi Group - their SCP mill in Slovakia features in the Meet the Mill section of this magazine.
industry-windows
Manufactured at Mondi SCP, Slovakia
Below is a brief summary of the grades, with more details to be found on the Denmaur website. Swatches and samples are available on request from our Samples Dept.
Available between 60 – 400g/m², although stocked from 80g/m² leaf
FSC®, Carbon Balanced, Cradle 2 Cradle, EU Ecolabel + others
Manufactured at Mondi Neusiedler, Austria
Held in 320x460, 460x320 & 530x750, 750x530 for stock leaf
FSC®, Carbon Balanced, Cradle 2 Cradle, EU Ecolabel + others
Manufactured at Mondi Neusiedler, Austria
170 CIE whiteness leaf
FSC®, Carbon Balanced, Cradle 2 Cradle, EU Ecolabel + others
So, with the Print, Premium and Indigo grades ready to sell, the question is – what’s your IQ?
ANDY MOORE
amoore@denmaur.com
At the beginning of the summer, the company made the decision to invest in our logistics programme, bringing the expertise in-house and reducing both the costs and inefficiencies of outsourcing.
One of our goals for 2025 is our intention to raise the bar in terms of customer service and an obvious and immediate way of doing so was by taking more control of how we deliver our stock.
To accommodate this programme, we’ve taken on 5 x 18 tonne vehicles as well as I x tractor unit and trailer.
Further expansion of the service – not necessarily fleet (see our New Joiner welcome to our new Transport Manager) – will be announced in due course, but the aim is to make our logistics as important to customers as is our quality portfolio of sustainable grades at competitive prices.
JULIAN TOWNSEND jtownsend@denmaur.com
As with our Scope 3 reporting, we are well placed to provide value to our customers with the implementation of the EU Commissions’ EUDR regulation.
However, at the time of writing, it appears the EUDR is set to be implemented in part this December for larger firms with compliance postponed for a period in the case of smaller firms.
Despite this, we are continuing to work closely with colleagues across the entire supply chain, from paper and pulp manufacturers through to magazine and catalogue distributors to guide them on compliance.We enjoy a good reputation for our management services and getting such a complex and detailed regulation correct first time will be vital for both our customers and our suppliers.
As we approach 2026, it is clear the publishing sector is continuing to shift business models,. Many of these can be seen to be the last gasps to stay relevant and financially stable within such a difficult and rapidly changing market.
Publishing customers are hoping TJ Jones will provide a vision for magazines going forward, and will correct the previous relentless under-investment and cost-cutting of WH Smith.
Paper makers are recognising the low demand for ‘publication’ papers will not recover and the first nine months of 2025 bought a number of high-profile failures and closures across the European paper market. The capacity lost during this period for coated mechanical paper (LWC/MWC) is in the region of 900,000 tonnes per annum and it is very telling that the recent action by UPM cuts reduces their exposure to printing & writing papers by 13%.
Such difficult conditions underline our strategy to provide a broad range of paper sources, combined with high service levels and industry experience. In the meantime, we are currently engaged in a number of new opportunities in both the traditional and new areas of publishing.
ANDY FAITHFUL afaithful@denmaur.com
In the last edition of the mag I alluded to new product developments which were due to arrive in the early Summer. Well, I am pleased to report these new ranges are here and already established, with stock flowing through the warehouse in increasing volumes.
We introduced 3 variants to the Mondi produced, IQ paper portfolio - IQ Print, IQ Premium and IQ Indigo, which has quickly made it a firm brand favourite with our customers.
We further strengthened our uncoated paper offering by adding the Arctic Paper, Amber brand to our range. In Amber Graphic and Preprint, we have secured an exclusive stockist position in the UK with two high quality uncoated paper grades.
In other areas, our focus on customer service improvements continue at pace with the introduction of our new CRM system (see p.22) and enhanced logistics capabilities, both of which will be in place and operational in November.
I will also take this opportunity to congratulate Alistair Nash who was recently promoted to the role of Sales Director for Commercial Print. A great appointment for our business and one that is richly deserved.
And finally, with a few leaving the team during the summer, we look forward to welcoming some new faces and talents to our business over the coming months. Much more on that in the next edition!
MICHAEL TOWNSEND mtownsend@denmaur.com
As 2025 draws to a close, it’s been a great year for Reel Fast. A standout moment has been securing a two year contract with Coveris, which will see over 6,000 tonnes processed through the Bescot site, a major milestone and a true reflection of the trust our customers place in us.
The year hasn’t been without its challenges. Tough market conditions and a few sheeter breakdowns tested us, yet our team kept operations running smoothly. The commitment to quick turnarounds remains firm, helping customers reduce waste, save costs, and stay on schedule.
The dedication of our production and warehouse teams has been exceptional, consistently maintaining high standards even as volumes continue to rise.
Looking ahead, the team is actively exploring a ‘fighting line’ GC2 along with other products to increase flexibility and ensure we stay competitive as the market evolves. This is another step in keeping Reel Fast at the forefront of the industry.
With strong partnerships, growing demand, and a solid operational foundation, Reel Fast is poised for another successful chapter.
CLIVE TOWNSEND cvtownsend@denmaur.com
I’m proud to say that Denmaur’s carton board tonnage is up by 21% year-to-date compared with the same period last year — an excellent achievement, even though the market remains difficult.
This growth isn’t down to one single factor. From logistics and sales to purchasing, finance and production, every department has played its part in our continued success. We continue to work to ensure that we have the right stocks in place to support demand and maintain the high service levels our customers expect. Bringing in new products such as Formakote White Grease Resistant (GR), demonstrates our growing commitment and strength to the market.
Look out for the Denmaur Doughnut Box, made with White GR, coming soon so we can deliver treats to customers and advertise our product at the same time! We’ve also strengthened the team with the appointment of Kris Freer, who brings a wealth of industry experience from Qualvis, Kingston Carton, and Elliott Baxter.
A big thank you to all. Together, we’re building sustainable growth and reinforcing Denmaur’s position as a trusted partner in the carton board market.
Chris is what you might call a “lifer” at Denmaur.
The company is the only employer Chris has ever had. Chris started out doing odd jobs during the summers in 2009 and worked his way up to his current role.
What is a day in your life at Denmaur like? What is the favourite part of your job?
If you hadn’t gone into the paper industry, what might you have done?
What would your family and friends say Chris Green is really like?
With what four people would you spend a fishing and shooting weekend?
As former Transport Manager, how is Denmaur’s delivery fleet?
Why should customers buy from Denmaur?
How is new fatherhood?
Best subject(s) in a pub quiz?
Best use of paper or packaging?
What will Chris Green be doing ten years from now?
When not working, Chris enjoys time with wife, Susannah, and 18-month old daughter, Georgia, (with another family addition on the way).
He is also a talented darts player, an avid sports shooter and an enthusiastic fisherman.
Audits, scope 3, sustainability, Health and Safety, the occasional bit of transport, Bardon, Bescot...... No day is ever the same, which keeps me on my toes.
I have no idea! I kind of fell into the paper industry and it stuck.
I think they would say I am a kind, caring guy who looks after his family, works and plays equally hard and does his best at everything and for everyone.
Jeremy Clarkson-he’s funny, Claudio Ranieri of Leicester FC fame, Carl Fogarty, World Superbike legend, and my late grandfather who taught my father who then taught me how to shoot and fish.
We recently added an extra articulated and 4 rigids across our two distribution sites which increased our carrying capacity while giving us better control of deliveries.
We are leaders in sustainability, carbon balancing and Scope 3 reporting with a full range of paper products and a friendly sales team prioritising customer service. Why wouldn’t you buy from Denmaur?
You certainly have less time for yourself, that’s for sure, but I love being a dad.
I drank my way through a geography degree so I would say geography and beer!
Since becoming a parent, I find that the creativity in some of the ‘pop-up’ books for kids is fantastic. “There’s a Hippo in my Toilet” is probably the best of the lot!!
Who can say? I probably will still be here, although in what capacity nobody knows.
Born in the Southwest, Sam joined Howard Smith Paper at 16 as an Accounts Clerk and Invoice Typist (remember typewriters?) eventually becoming Customer Service Manager for the Western Region.
She joined Denmaur in 2015 to run our then new Bristol branch.
How did you get into the paper industry?
If you hadn’t gone into the paper industry, what might you have done?
What is a day in your life at Denmaur Bristol like? What is the favourite part of your job?
Who would play you in “Denmaur: The Movie” and why?
If you could spend a whole weekend camping and kayaking with four other people, dead or alive, who would they be?
What is the future for paper as you see it?
Why horse riding? What makes for a good human-horse relationship?
What would be your best subject in a pub quiz (other than horses)?
Why should customers buy from Denmaur?
What will Sam Mills be doing ten years from now?
When not at work she enjoys camping and the outdoors with her partner, Gabe, but often you will find her riding her 14.3hh mare, Prin.
Kayaking on the Norfolk Broads, theatre and stand-up comedy are also favourite pastimes.
Completely by luck via the local Job Centre. I applied, had an interview and subsequent job offer, all within 3 hours.
Definitely something medical, ideally in A&E.
You need to be a juggler! It’s a mixture of proactive and reactive, with constant reprioritisation of the workload to accommodate urgent matters. I’ve known many customers for over 30 years, the favourite part is the trust that they put in my ability to get the job done.
Olivia Coleman. Down to earth, a great sense of humour, and very nearly a national treasure!
My friends and family are everything to me. I’d not swap them out for anyone. Don’t take it for granted that they will always be around.
I can’t see a world without it that’s for sure. If my ever-increasing book collection is any gauge, no one needs to worry!
Horses make my heart sing. Trust is the key, if you have mutual trust then they will take you to the ends of the earth, no questions asked.
An audible round for sure – I’m spookily good at recognising voices.
Every person here is passionate about the role they play and genuinely wants to make a customer’s life easier. I felt it on the day I joined and still feel it today.
Exactly 10 years from the date you read this I will be hitting retirement age. So crying probably!!
Robert Gould, Denmaur’s Executive Director, trained as a lawyer in the US and acts as the company’s de facto in-house counsel. He provides the occasional article on matters of corporate legal importance for UK companies.
As some readers may be aware, from Tuesday 18 November 2025, Companies House opened the 12-month long window in which company directors and people with significant control (PSCs) must verify their identities. The purpose is to enhance transparency and combat fraud by ensuring that individuals behind businesses are properly identified and vetted.
I won’t go into great detail in this short article but for UK citizens, the verification process involves submitting an official form along with identification documents, such as a passport or driving license, and proof of address, like a utility bill. This can be done online for free via an individual’s GOV.UK Login or through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), typically a solicitor or accountant if they have registered as such.
For non-UK citizens, the process is slightly more complex. In addition to the same identification documents required from UK residents, non-UK directors and PSCs must provide a copy of their passport and a secondary form of identification, which may include a utility bill or bank statement from their country of residence. Additional checks may be performed to validate foreign addresses.
For either UK citizens/UK residents or non-UK citizens/non-UK residents, identity verification can also be done by post or at certain UK post offices.
Compliance is crucial, as failure to provide accurate information can result in penalties for the company and individuals involved.
For more information go to https://www.gov.uk/guidance/verifying-your-identity-for-companies-house
In September, Andy Faithful, Denmaur’s Director, Commercial Print, organised a Knowledge Share Day for some of our younger employees with one of our major printing customers at Pureprint’s HQ plant in Uckfield.
Anna Berrisford and Cameron Faithful from Commercial Print and Ben Lee from our Samples operation got an in-depth tour of Pureprint’s Litho, Digital, Finishing, Mail and Packaging departments guided by Neil Young, Pureprint’s Client Services Director, while Pureprint personnel got a deep dive into all things paper from Andy and the team.
This is all part of Denmaur’s effort with its customers to bring fresh, young talent into the paper and print industry.
Welcome to the Denmaur family
Kris Freer
External Sales Development, Carton Board
Kathryn Ryall
Business Development Manager
Tom Grainger Agent
Anne Bussey
Transport Manager, Bardon and Bescot
Brad Goldsmith
Senior Marketing Manager
Charlie Dunsmuir
Head of Development
Doug Jessop
After 25 years at the company, Doug Jessop retired at the end of July. Doug joined Denmaur from Capitol Paper in 2000 bringing with him a small team to enhance Denmaur’s publishing division which he led as MD. To say that a good part of Denmaur retired with him would be an understatement even though he leaves the publishing division in the very capable hands of those he worked with for the better part of his career at Denmaur. Doug will take some well deserved time off before deciding his next move in life but his first job post-retirement was being father of the bride to see his daughter, Hannah, happily married in September.
Needless to say, we wish Doug a very happy and healthy retirement (and many future grandchildren?).
Look who’s having a birthday cake
November
December
January
February
Andrew Buxton / Danny Doogan / Michael Keating / Sam Mills / Nigel Poole / Andrzej Plawski / Ian Williams / David Richards / David Perry / Holly McMullen
Ricky Hirshfield / Robert Thraves / Staci Terry / Miriam Larkins / Henryk Dlugosz / Mathew Tobin / Daniel Thompson / Steven Evans / George Tarta / Kris Freer
Anna Berrisford /Andrew Faithful / Mike Gee / Piotr Klimczak / Andrew Briars
Malcolm Costelow / Zach Gargan / Christopher Green / Mark Harsent / Stephen Hampson / Graeme Richardson / Ashok Tandel
44 YEARS
Stephen Rathbone
42 YEARS
Mike Gee
35 YEARS
Kevin Walls
34 YEARS
Ricky Hirshfield
28 YEARS
Julian Townsend
27 YEARS
Martin Travis
26 YEARS
Julie Crayford
25 YEARS
Paul Cooper
Adrian Beckett
24 YEARS
Martin Best
Stephen Hampson
23 YEARS
Nigel Somerfield
Danny Doogan
Anne Attwater
Sarah Marshall
22 YEARS
Mark Ashcroft
Andy Faithful
Glynn Bunce
21 YEARS
Warren Jones
Sarah Reed
20 YEARS
David Richards
19 YEARS
Steven Evans
Andy Moore
John Russell
18 YEARS
Henryk Dlugosz
17 YEARS
Andrew Livesey
16 YEARS
Simon Cartwright
Lee McSweeny
Mathew Tobin
15 YEARS
Ian Fry
Mark Harsent
Joshua Kilby
14 YEARS
Sean Jackson
Sarah Erswell
Parmjit Singh
Christopher Green
Brian Lawes
Andrew Farmer
Graeme Richardson
13 YEARS
Daryl Bird
12 YEARS Garreth Donnelly
11 YEARS
Jeanette Gray-Mitchell
Ben Lee
Andrew Buxton
Zach Gargan
10 YEARS
Duane Percival
Sam Mills
Jake Watson
Andrew Briars
Daniel Thompson
Neil Cobley
Gary Dacey
Alex Bradburn
Andrzej Plawski
Anna Berrisford
9 YEARS
Jonathan Thompson
David Hensman
Malcolm Costelow
8 YEARS
Jordan Richardson
Inderjit Malhi
Michael Keating
7 YEARS
Andrew Evans
Robert Thraves
Ruth Moore
Alistair Nash
Ian Williams
Jason Darby
Nimesh Amrat
Daniel Butler
6 YEARS
Piotr Klimczak
Leon Griffiths
Harry Gould
Robert Gould
Stephen Bedworth
Vitalijs Vitkovskis
Alan Wilkins
5 YEARS
Matt Groom
Jon Cooper
4 YEARS
Ben Ingall
Staci Terry
Abdulhamid Aghe
Karlene Rolls
3 YEARS
Anthony Hardy
Miriam Larkins
Joe Barker
Nigel Poole
Helena Prusakevica
David Plummer
Bradley Taylor
Keith Hedges
Phillip Ferguson
Molly Martin
Anthony Bennett
2 YEARS
Warren Curtis
Simon Bishop
Holly McMullen
Ross Hampson
Gregory Topliss
1 YEAR
George Tarta
Ashok Tandel
Ram Tamang
Clive Townsend
Michael Townsend
Craig Bentham
Derrick Danquah
Terry Brookes
Gabriel Harbuz
RECENT JOINERS
Jamie Roberts
Mark Lees
Cameron Faithful
Kris Freer
Garry Keen
Javd Abrar
Anne Bussey
Kathryn Ryall
Charlie Dunsmuir
At a time when politics seems to be dominating every conversation on both sides of the Atlantic, it is the job of the mag to make sure that we all can maintain some perspective.
“Those who are too smart to engage in politics are punished by being governed by those who are dumber.”
PLATO, GREEK PHILOSOPHER
“Politicians are people who, when they see light at the end of the tunnel, go out and buy some more tunnel.”
JOHN QUINTON, AMERICAN ACTOR/WRITER
“Politicians are the same all over. They promise to build a bridge even where there is no river.”
NIKITA KHRUSHCHEV, FORMER HEAD OF THE USSR
“A politician is a fellow who will lay down your life for his country.”
TEXAS GUINAN, US PROHIBITION ERA SALOON KEEPER
“I offered my opponents a deal: if they stop telling lies about me, I will stop telling the truth about them“
ADLAI STEVENSON, US PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE (1952)
“I have come to the conclusion that politics is too serious a matter to be left to the politicians.”
CHARLES DE GAULLE, FRENCH GENERAL & POLITICIAN
“Politics is getting promisingcampaignvotesfunds to protect other.”
OSCAR AMERINGER,
“A government robs Peter to can always depend the support
“Politicians should wear sponsor jackets like NASCAR drivers. Then we would know who owns them.”
ROBIN WILLIAMS, COMEDIAN AND ACTOR
BERNARD SHAW, PLAYWRIGHT
Therefore, we are providing some words of wisdom from the ages to allow a bit of clear thinking on the topic.
“I don’t make jokes. I just watch the government and report the facts”.
WILL ROGERS
“Politics is the gentle art of votes from the poor and funds from the rich, by to protect each from the other.”
AMERINGER, POLITICAL COLUMNIST
“I don’t like political jokes, but a lot of them get elected!”
WILL ROGERS, 20TH CENTURY AMERICAN HUMOURIST
“In my many years I have come to a conclusion that one useless man is a shame, two is a law firm, and three or more is a congress.”
JOHN ADAMS, USA FOUNDING FATHER AND 2ND PRESIDENT government which to pay Paul always depend on support of Paul.”
BERNARD SHAW, ENGLISH PLAYWRIGHT
“Instead of giving a politician the keys to the city, it might be better to change the locks.”
DOUG LARSON, ENGLISH OLYMPIC ATHLETE
“If power Powerpointcorrupts, absolutely.”corrupts
“The
only difference between a tax man and a taxidermist is that the taxidermist leaves the skin.”
MARK TWAIN, AMERICAN AUTHOR
“When I was a boy I was told that anybody could become President; I’m beginning to believe it.”
IRVING STONE, AUTHOR
We’re pleased to announce that we have recently introduced HubSpot CRM across the business — a major step forward in enhancing how we serve our customers.
The system provides a uniform platform for managing enquiries, quotations and customer interactions, ensuring a consistent and efficient approach company wide. With HubSpot, we can now track and resolve customer queries more quickly, while also monitoring quotation turnaround times and product availability, giving our teams the insight they need to act promptly.
The new platform, being rolled out throughout the calendar fourth quarter, gives our teams clearer visibility across all areas of customer service, helping us to anticipate needs, reduce delays, and continually improve our customers’ experience with us.
Denmaur CEO, Andy Buxton, took time to pose with Bardon distribution centre workers celebrating the Hindu festival of light.
A simple and natural way to balance the carbon emissions of your paper, printed marketing communications and fibre-based packaging.
Like a mis-addressed envelope, the mag will return in February with more must read articles:
• Department News
• Up Close and Personal
• Meet the Mill
• Sustainability Centre
• Humour... and much, much more.
BARDON OFFICE: 01530 275500
BESCOT OFFICE: 01922 633333
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This is your magazine and can only be as good as the newsworthy items we know about. So please don’t be shy. All, and we mean all, news items, comments and suggestions are welcome. Just drop a line to themag@denmaur.com.
