Denmaur Independent Papers has confirmed that it has reached an agreement to acquire the business and assets of the Fine Paper and Conversion division (incorporating Vision Paper and Board) from Middleton Paper Co Ltd, with completion scheduled for mid-July. Middleton’s staff will continue to operate from their location in Walsall and the Middleton brands will also remain under the new ownership.
This will represent Denmaur’s first acquisition since Harry Gould Jr took a majority shareholding in the company in 2019.
Gould, who is Denmaur’s Chairman, commented, “We are acquiring an on-going and profitable operation in Middleton and although a slightly different business model, the combined strengths and differences of the two companies will generate added value and an opportunity for the UK paper and board market going forward.”
Denmaur have steadily grown since opening their doors in 1983 to become one of the UK’s leading paper merchants specialising, in the supply for the publishing, commercial print and carton board sectors. Also known for their sustainability services, Denmaur recently announced the landmark 100,000 tonnes of Carbon Balanced Paper sales. Middleton have made their name largely through their conversion services in the graphic paper and board market, with the introduction of a merchanting arm, Vision, in more recent years.
Jason Middleton, Managing Director, Middleton Paper, adds, “Having led the team of dedicated people who have grown our Fine Paper and Conversion Division for over 35 years, I am excited to see the progress we will make during the next phase of this operation’s development. We will all continue to enjoy secure, independent ownership that fully supports the proactive and progressive management team that I will be joining. Both customers and suppliers alike will benefit from the synergies created by bringing our companies together, as well as broadening the range of opportunities available to us in a challenging market throughout the years ahead.”
With Denmaur’s warehouse in Bardon, the combined storage capacity following the acquisition will cover 235,000 sq ft. The combined turnover of both companies is in excess of £140m and the head count will be 128 once the purchase has been finalised.
