Displaying items by tag: James Cropper

The 100% paper design of the charity's iconic poppy will be available from this year's Poppy Appeal onwards

James Cropper, specialist papermaker based in the English Lake District, has collaborated on the creation of the Royal British Legion’s new plastic-free poppy that’s now made entirely from paper.

Working with the Royal British Legion (RBL), and design consultancy Matter, James Cropper is proud to have co-created the poppy which will reduce carbon emissions by 40 per cent. It is free from single-use plastic and can be recycled in ordinary paper recycling collections.

The design is part of the charity’s commitment to reducing single-use plastic in all its activities in a drive to be economical, sustainable, and less impactful to the environment. The new poppy maintains the iconic poppy design and leaf shape and can be fastened with a pin, inserted into a buttonhole, or stick on versions are available.

Marking 45 years of partnership with the RBL, the paper provided for the new design is made from a blend of renewable fibres from responsible sources, 50 per cent of which has been recovered from paper coffee cup production via James Cropper’s CupCycling facility in Cumbria.

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Steve Adams, Chief Executive Officer at James Cropper, said: “Every year since 1978, red and green papers made at our paper mill are transformed into millions of poppies for the annual Poppy Appeal that continues to provide vital support to the Armed Forces community.

“Although we are involved each year, we never take for granted what this symbol means to so many families and the country as a whole. Everyone at James Cropper is very proud of our long-standing involvement in the production of the paper poppy, worn the world over as a symbol of respect and remembrance.”

The original paper poppy design was first produced in the 1970s. A request went out to paper mills for assistance in finding a bleed-free paper, and the partnership between James Cropper and the RBL began. James Cropper now delivers over three miles (5km) of narrow red and green paper rolls, which are made into millions of poppies, to the RBL and Poppyscotland’s poppy factories every year.

The Royal British Legion’s Executive Director of Marketing, Fundraising and Remembrance, Gary Ryan said, “We're proud to have designed a plastic-free poppy that will enable people to show their support for our Armed Forces community in a more sustainable way. We are thankful to our long-standing supplier James Cropper who developed the innovative paper used in the new poppy. The company’s industry-leading technology which reuses waste from the manufacture of coffee cups has ensured the iconic poppy is now made entirely from responsibly sourced materials. The Royal British Legion provides a lifeline for serving personnel, veterans and their families facing hardship, injury and bereavement. We hope our new plastic-free poppy, which will be available alongside existing poppy stocks, will encourage people to support the Poppy Appeal this year and help us continue our vital work.”

John MacDonald, Design Director at Matter said: “We didn’t want to simply reduce single use plastic, but to eliminate it completely. Paper offered a single-material solution that could be easily recycled, as well as offering a bold, elegant approach for the next generation of poppies. When applied well, paper is such a beautiful material. The new poppy uses papers entirely bespoke to the RBL, with print finish details that lift 3D form and deliver a quality that the remembrance occasion deserves.”

With sustainable solutions at the heart of the James Cropper mission, the new poppy contributes to its vision to drive growth of upcycled fibre within the company’s paper products to 50 per cent by 2025: pioneering materials to safeguard our future.

James Cropper’s FibreBlend Upcycled Technology model organises the plethora of fibre blend options available to customers into a clear offer, demonstrating the limitless expertise available to them. From the world’s first technology to upcycle used coffee cups to the industry leading incorporation of used jeans into fully recyclable paper for packaging - transforming waste into beautiful paper and packaging is at the core of the FibreBlend Upcycled Technology mission.

The plastic-free poppy will be available for the 2023 Poppy Appeal alongside remaining stocks of the current poppy, which can be returned to Sainsbury’s stores for recycling.

James Cropper   

James Cropper is a prestige paper innovator based in the English Lake District, supplying distinct, custom-made paper products to many of the world’s leading luxury brands, art galleries and designers.   

Throughout 176 years of high-quality paper production, the business has been carefully stewarded and nurtured by six generations of the Cropper family and is renowned globally for individual expertise in colour and fibre innovation.  

The Royal British Legion 

The Royal British Legion (RBL) is the UKs largest charity dedicated to supporting the needs of the Armed Forces community, past and present and their families. The RBL is the champion of Remembrance and safeguards the Armed Forces Covenant. It is well known for the annual Poppy Appeal and its emblem the red poppy. For further information, visit rbl.org.uk

Matter

We are a team of designers, committed to making a difference. A creative studio of thinkers and makers, inspired by what we can achieve for a positive future. For the people who experience our products, for the organisations we transform and for the world we live in.

User-experience and responsible design are at the centre of everything we do. Our services include product and packaging design, brand strategy, sustainable futures, concept visions and prototyping.

We are Matter. Difference, made.

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This month, James Cropper became one of 11 companies to support environmental non-profit Canopy, showing a love for forests by joining the Pack4Good initiative that is focused on transforming paper packaging supply chains and protecting Ancient and Endangered Forests. 

Providing truly sustainable and responsible papers and packaging for customers requires rigorous testing of the fibres used in James Cropper’s operations and tracking the provenance of the supply chain. With the help of the forest mapper from Canopy, James Cropper can ensure that none of its supplies are from at-risk forests and that environments and communities related to the origin of its paper products are safeguarded.  

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The scientific community warns that at least 50% of the world’s forests need to be conserved and/or restored by 2030 to ensure global temperature increases stay below 1.5˚C and address the global climate and biodiversity crises. The time is now for companies to show forests some love by taking supply chain leadership. 

Tricia Hartmann, Global Packaging Lead from James Cropper said: “From the world’s first technology to upcycle used coffee cups, to the industry leading incorporation of used jeans into fully recyclable paper for packaging – transforming waste into beautiful paper is at the core of James Cropper’s FibreBlend Upcycled Technology mission. 

2023 03 06 102535“We are proud to be part of Canopy’s Pack4Good initiative alongside so many businesses also dedicated to addressing the growing forest footprint of paper packaging. Solutions exist today such as utilising alternative fibres to make strong, attractive, and versatile packaging, while taking pressure off of forests and developing new regenerative supply chains.”  

Through Pack4Good, James Cropper is among a growing list of brands and packaging suppliers helping to make sustainable paper packaging the norm.  

Innovations such as the Rydal Packaging Collection and eco-designed moulded packaging solution, Colourform, are examples of how James Cropper has been able to deliver game-changing packaging narratives for brands in the beauty, fashion and drinks sectors, and also significantly reduce material use through design innovation. 

There are now 371 companies with Pack4Good policies demonstrating the type of ‘out-of-the-box’ leadership and innovative thinking that will transform supply chains, scale-up sustainable solutions and protect and manage our forests responsibly. 

About James Cropper   

James Cropper is a prestige paper innovator based in the English Lake District, supplying distinct, custom-made paper products to many of the world’s leading luxury brands, art galleries and designers.     

Throughout 176 years of high-quality paper production, the business has been carefully stewarded and nurtured by six generations of the Cropper family and is renowned globally for individual expertise in colour and fibre innovation.       

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James Cropper, one of the world’s most innovative papermakers, has appointed Rob Tilsley as Fibre Operations Group Lead.     

Rob’s role will drive growth of upcycled fibre within the company’s paper products to 50% by 2025, both increasing the capacity and the quality of recovered fibre available to the James Cropper business. In addition, he is responsible for the day to day management of the on-site upcycled fibre facility, baler house and waste-water plant; as well as the introduction of new fibre streams and the standardisation of recovered fibre use.  

Rob TilsleyRob TilsleyThe appointment comes after the creation of James Cropper’s destination brand for its expertise in fibre. FibreBlend Upcycled Technology is at the heart of the business purpose: Pioneering materials to safeguard our future. The FibreBlend model organises the plethora of fibre blend options available to customers into a clear offer, demonstrating the limitless expertise available to them.  

Rob takes on the role after 18 years’ service at the James Cropper mill in the Lake District, bringing with him deep knowledge of the company’s speciality paper making processes, capabilities and products.  

Richard Burnett, Head of Technology and Innovation at James Cropper said: “Rob’s extensive knowledge of the industry and our business coupled with his commercial mindset and passion for innovation make him the perfect fit to drive our ambitions for FibreBlend Upcycled Technology. 

“At a time when consumer demand for paper and packaging which tirelessly pushes the boundaries of sustainable solutions continues to grow at pace, it is an exciting time to take on this role. FibreBlend Upcycled Technology offers a dedicated team committed to perpetual sustainable fibre innovation; we look forward to drawing on Rob’s experience to help to continue to deliver unrivalled expertise in this area.”

Speaking on his appointment Rob Tilsley said: “From the world’s first technology to upcycle used coffee cups to the industry leading incorporation of used jeans into fully recyclable paper for packaging - transforming waste into beautiful paper and packaging is at the core of the FibreBlend Upcycled Technology mission. Having honed my knowledge of papermaking within the James Cropper family, I am over the moon to be involved in continuing this mission and reaching our goal to have a balance of fresh and recovered fibre across our portfolio of paper products by 2025.” 

About James Cropper    

James Cropper is a prestige paper innovator based in the English Lake District, supplying distinct, custom-made paper products to many of the world’s leading luxury brands, art galleries and designers.    

Throughout 176 years of high-quality paper production, the business has been carefully stewarded and nurtured by six generations of the Cropper family and is renowned globally for individual expertise in colour and fibre innovation.       

CupCyclingTM  

CupCyclingTM is a technology innovated by James Cropper that extracts the polythene lining of disposable coffee cups, enabling them to be recycled and transformed into high-quality paper, packaging and stationery products. By working with retailers such as McDonald’s and Costa, James Cropper has implemented the infrastructure needed to collect single-use waste products and transform them into beautiful papers and packaging for the likes of Selfridges and Lush. Circular design is at the core of CupCyclingTM. To date, James Cropper has recycled over 100 million coffee cups and has capacity to upcycle 500 million cups per year.   

Read more about the CupCyclingTM story here.  

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Maison Perrier-Jouët, one of France’s most historic and distinctive champagne houses, has partnered with sustainable packaging brand, COLOURFORM by James Cropper, to challenge the norms of luxury. Together they have created an eco-designed gift box that marries beauty with environmental commitment seamlessly in the luxury market.

Crafted from paper pulp and vine shoots, the Belle Epoque Cocoon has been designed for the champagne house’s vintage cuvees Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque and Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque Rosé.

The vine shoots are recovered after pruning at the end of winter, ensuring that this naturally derived agrifibre is given a second life and that the packaging is both recyclable with other paper products and circular in design. The upcycled vine shoots also provide a beautiful coloured speckled aesthetic to the finished gift box.

The box perfectly envelops the Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque bottle, enhancing its shape. Offering a unique design profile with a pleasing sweep producing an organic and natural feel, only the golden cap crowning the champagne is revealed which is showcased by a small petal-like collar. With an enchanting minimalist elegance, the emblematic Art Nouveau inspired anemone of the Perrier-Jouët house is subtly conveyed through the intricately sculpted floral decoration which beautifully fades out at the packaging edge with a double-deboss.

In addition to its featherweight of 49 grams, which is 93% lighter than the previous gift box, the Belle Epoque Cocoon wrap doesn’t include any varnish or glue. It is designed with only two natural materials, paper pulp prepared from FSC® approved sustainably managed forests and vine shoots from France. The vine shoots evoke the Champagne region and nod to the house’s passion for nature and art which has been passed down through the generations since the house formed in 1811. James Cropper’s Colourform production uses 100% renewable energy, with the majority of power being generated on site by their own solar and hydro plants.

Richard Dancy, COLOURFORM brand manager, comments: “A beautiful and sustainable solution that delivers the essence of the Belle Epoque brand through this luxury packaging. The high attention to detail behind this unique box design has been born from Maison Perrier-Jouët’s close relationship with nature and love of art and natural materials. The wash cut crafted finish is both simple and elegant, and offers up a fine example of circularity and recyclability, adding to the other initiatives that the house of Perrier-Jouët has pioneered.

“By reducing the impact on the environment as much as possible with Belle Epoque Cocoon, Maison Perrier-Jouët is giving meaning to all moments of celebration and has reinvented the codes of luxury.”

The box is varnish free, with a long sleek hinge and fastened with a double locking clasp mechanism it does not require any glue.  The clasp closes with a crisp audible click, lies flat and also features a debossed logo. The presentation is finished with a paper label.

With its rich botanical heritage, Maison Perrier-Jouët has evolved in symbiosis with nature since 1811. In 2020, it began a new model of viticulture, inspired by the cycle of nature, which is in line with the evolution of the brand’s practices over the last decade.  Regenerative viticulture allows Maison Perrier-Jouët to act on the life of the soil, local species and people at the pace dictated by nature. The aim is to pass on to future generations a terroir, capable of adapting to climate change by limiting the influence of human activities on the ecosystem to which we all belong. 

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Audrey Guerin, Packaging Development Manager at Perrier-Jouët, says: “This work represents a fantastic collaboration between the James Cropper and Maison Perrier-Jouët development teams.

“Maison Perrier-Jouët has always been guided by a love of nature. The new sustainable wrap reflects the evolution of this passion, with the house taking sincere, ethical and lasting action to reduce its impact on nature and sustain the environment. 

“The ultra-light creation represents a huge moment for the brand since it marks the goal we set out to achieve of having our entire gift offer eco-designed by 2023. We’re delighted to mark the achievement with such a beautiful design that seamlessly showcases how beauty and sustainability can work together, in the luxury market.”

The house’s vintage cuvees Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque and Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque Rosé will initially launch in the US, France and Italy in the Belle Epoque Cocoon wrap.  More than ever, Maison Perrier-Jouët re-enchants the world we share.

About James Cropper

James Cropper is a world-class advanced materials and paper products group, with an operational reach in over 50 countries. Using materials from cotton and wood to carbon fibre the business supports industries from packaging to digital imaging and aerospace with products that are at the cutting edge of performance.

James Cropper is a specialist; providing niche solutions such as materials essential for a hydrogen fuel cell, a bespoke colour and texture for a luxury brand’s packaging or moulded fibre alternatives to single use plastics. 

James Cropper has a rich heritage at the Burneside mill, the company was established in 1845, and respectfully manufactures on this site, in the foothills of the English Lake District. The business is renowned globally for its dedicated responses to custom projects and its award-winning commitment to the highest standards of sustainability.

The Burneside mill location is the official Head Quarters for James Cropper PLC and all associated businesses.

www.jamescropper.com

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James Cropper, one of the world’s most innovative papermakers, has partnered with French, family-owned Champagne maker, Rogge-Cereser and French packaging producer, L’Agence Le Sanglier, to create an industry leading example of eco-design in the luxury drinks market.

Using paper from the Rydal Packaging Collection, which unites beauty and sustainability, the minimalist design of the Rogge-Cereser champagne box infuses the art of gifting with environmental responsibility.

Chosen for its excellent credentials in lamination, embossing and creasing, the champagne box marks the first time Rydal paper, respectfully produced in the English Lake District, has been used for Champagne packaging.

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To bring the concept to life, the team of packaging professionals at Le Sanglier used their innovative 'Texturflex' technology to add an overall bubbly textured finish to the case, creating a beautiful back-drop to the signature marque of the Champagne house.

The Rogge-Cereser eco-case is fully recyclable, made with 100% natural fibres from a mix of FSC certified sources.  The minimalist design, using a single material, invites the consumer to celebrate those key moments while caring for the environment - and can simply be recycled after use.  

While aligning closely to Le Sanglier’s commitment to sustainability, the producer chose Rydal paper because it embossed and folded beautifully. Designed specifically for packaging, the paper's inherent surface and tensile strength characteristics ensured that it converted without any cracked edging: a key point for Champagne boxes.

Philippe Aertgeets, CEO, Le Sanglier says: “Merging beauty with functionality is something which consumers shopping for luxury products have come to expect. But, as the world continues to have its eyes on sustainability, consumers are insisting that the products they buy are environmentally and socially responsible.  

“This partnership is a fantastic demonstration of how sustainability can play a part in the Champagne market. With its outstanding print performance and converting characteristics, the Rydal collection is the perfect choice for sustainable wine-maker Rogge-Cereser.”

From the world’s first technology to upcycle used coffee cups, to the industry leading incorporation of used jeans into fully recyclable paper for packaging - transforming waste into beautiful paper is at the core of James Cropper’s FibreBlend Upcycled Technology mission.

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Tricia Hartmann, Luxury Packaging Lead at James Cropper comments: “Our Rydal collection is a blend of recovered fibre and fresh fibre from sustainable forestry sources. Delivering beautiful papers and giving a second life to post-consumer waste is a vital step in the life cycle for paper, today and for future generations.

“We’re thrilled to showcase the extraordinary possibilities of fibre, particularly in a luxury market where there has always been debate over whether sustainability means a compromise on aesthetics. As this design shows, it doesn’t. There are innovations and materials out there which can help brands do better and meet the growing consumer demand for better.”

The experts at James Cropper believe that the perfect balance of paper performance, a sustainable story and visual appeal lives in the unique blend of virgin and recovered fibre.

Each and every brief is unique, which is why FibreBlend Upcycled Technology gives every customer the freedom to choose from our range of papers or create something bespoke; either of which talks specifically to its end use and individual storytelling needs.

About James Cropper

James Cropper is a world-class advanced materials and paper products group, with an operational reach in over 50 countries. Using materials from cotton and wood to carbon fibre the business supports industries from packaging to digital imaging and aerospace with products that are at the cutting edge of performance.

James Cropper is a specialist; providing niche solutions such as materials essential for a hydrogen fuel cell, a bespoke colour and texture for a luxury brand’s packaging or moulded fibre alternatives to single use plastics.

James Cropper has a rich heritage at the Burneside mill, the company was established in 1845, and respectfully manufactures on this site, in the foothills of the English Lake District. The business is renowned globally for its dedicated responses to custom projects and its award-winning commitment to the highest standards of sustainability.

The Burneside mill location is the official Head Quarters for James Cropper PLC and all associated businesses.

www.jamescropper.com

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James Cropper, one of the world’s most innovative papermakers, has announced that Isabelle Maddock, who sits on the company board, has been appointed as a Standing Committee Chair for the Confederation of British Industry (CBI).

The CBI speaks on behalf of every sector in the economy and works with government to help businesses embrace and lead change, providing a voice for firms at a regional, national and international level to policymakers. 

Isabelle MaddockIsabelle MaddockIsabelle will chair the influential CBI Economic Growth Board (EGB), one of the CBI’s main member forums that works to drive its economic focus, intelligence and systemic change for the long-term benefit of UK business and society.

One of the focuses for the CBI is to drive collaboration between government and business to achieving a Net-Zero economy – a movement that is of particular relevance for the paper and packaging sector as manufacturers look to use resources more efficiently and keep waste to a minimum.

Speaking about her appointment, Isabelle says: “The drive towards a circular economy presents an opportunity for industry to lead the charge in sustainability. By 2030, the UK will see an acceleration in economic growth, with prosperity spread across every region. We will champion green growth, creating new technologies and jobs that accelerate the race to net-zero. Achieving this ambition requires all UK businesses to play a part.

“It is a privilege to be appointed as Chair of the Economic Growth Board and be in a position to shape the future of business. My experience in UK manufacturing will help me create beneficial change and prosperity for industry and society.”

Isabelle joined James Cropper in 2006 as Group Financial Controller and has served as Chief Financial Officer since August 2014.

Phil Wild, James Cropper CEO, says: “We are incredibly proud that Isabelle has been elected chair of the Economic Growth Board. Her contribution to James Cropper as a member of the leadership team has been instrumental in helping us to drive circular innovation.

“We look forward to supporting her role at the CBI as she helps the organisation to shape and embrace change.”

Isabelle will be speaking at the CBI’s ‘Achieving Net Zero’ conference series taking place in June 2022 at the Science Museum in London. Isabelle will take part in a session entitled ‘Too hard to decarb? Net zero for heavy industry’, on the 7th June at 12:30pm. For more information visit https://www.cbi.org.uk/events/conference-series-achieving-net-zero-2022/.

About James Cropper   

James Cropper is a prestige paper innovator based in the English Lake District, supplying distinct, custom-made paper products to many of the world’s leading luxury brands, art galleries and designers.    

Throughout 176 years of high-quality paper production, the business has been carefully stewarded and nurtured by six generations of the Cropper family and is renowned globally for individual expertise in colour and fibre innovation.       

https://www.jamescropper.com/tailor-made 

About James Cropper COLOURFORM™    

Blending technological solutions and innovative design with a growing eco-conscious consumer mind-set, COLOURFORM is a thermoformed, moulded fibre packaging solution, offering a full service direct to brands. 

COLOURFORM is no stranger to innovation. The moulded-fibre packaging company has been born from a group with tremendous heritage, who continually looks to the future with its innovation and progressive thinking. Coupled with the creative capability to go head-to-head in the design stakes with undesirable plastics, COLOURFORM is meeting the needs of complex and high-end design, while blazing a trail for sustainable luxury packaging in the future.  

https://www.jamescropper.com/Colourform   

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With contributions from the likes of Paul Weller and Noel Gallagher, specialist papermaker, James Cropper, has collaborated with Teenage Cancer Trust in the creation of a fundraising song book.  

Produced with artist Pete McKee, the book features 19 songs which have been performed on stage at Teenage Cancer Trust events over the past 20 years. 

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The handwritten lyric contributions come from an all-star line-up of artists including Amy Macdonald, Kasabian, Suede, Blossoms, The Cure and many more. Each song is accompanied by an interpretative design produced by Pete McKee, forming an exclusive collection of McKee artworks not available elsewhere. 

The song book also features lyrics from cancer survivor, and singer of Ishmael Ensemble, Holly Wellington, who was helped by Teenage Cancer Trust. Her song ‘Empty Hands’ was written about her cancer experience and Wellington also wrote the foreword to the book. 

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Available now, the song book launched as Teenage Cancer Trust’s iconic Royal Albert Hall fundraising concert returned to the venue to celebrate its 20th event, after three years away. 

James Cropper CEO, Phil Wild is on the Advisory Board for the charity and is a strong advocate of Teenage Cancer Trust. To support the song book’s fundraising ambitions, the Cumbrian based papermaker contributed all the premium upcycled paper used in the production of the book.   

Phil Wild, Chief Executive Officer at James Cropper plc says: “Every day, seven young people aged 13-24 hear the words “you have cancer”. They will each need specialised nursing care and support to get them through it. The Teenage Cancer Trust is the only UK charity dedicated to meeting this vital need – so no young person faces cancer alone. 

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“We’re extremely proud to support this project. Produced with James Cropper paper, the song book brings together some incredible celebrity and music ambassadors, all helping in raising funds for this important charity.” 

The song book, whose pages are made with innovative CupCycling technology that gives disposable cups a valuable second life, is available now via www.petemckee.com and will retail at £25, with all profits going to support Teenage Cancer Trust. 

About James Cropper   

James Cropper is a prestige paper innovator based in the English Lake District, supplying distinct, custom-made paper products to many of the world’s leading luxury brands, art galleries and designers.    

Throughout 176 years of high-quality paper production, the business has been carefully stewarded and nurtured by six generations of the Cropper family and is renowned globally for individual expertise in colour and fibre innovation.       

https://www.jamescropper.com/tailor-made 

About James Cropper COLOURFORM™    

Blending technological solutions and innovative design with a growing eco-conscious consumer mind-set, COLOURFORM is a thermoformed, moulded fibre packaging solution, offering a full service direct to brands. 

COLOURFORM is no stranger to innovation. The moulded-fibre packaging company has been born from a group with tremendous heritage, who continually looks to the future with its innovation and progressive thinking. Coupled with the creative capability to go head-to-head in the design stakes with undesirable plastics, COLOURFORM is meeting the needs of complex and high-end design, while blazing a trail for sustainable luxury packaging in the future.  

https://www.jamescropper.com/Colourform   

About Teenage Cancer Trust  

Every day, seven young people in the UK aged 13 to 24 hear the words "you have cancer" Teenage Cancer Trust puts young people in the best possible place, physically, mentally and emotionally, for their cancer treatment and beyond 

We do it through our expert nurses, support teams, and hospital units. And we're the only UK charity dedicated to providing this specialised nursing care and support

Teenage Cancer Trust is a registered charity: 1062559 (England & Wales), SC039757 (Scotland).

About Teenage Cancer Trust at The Royal Albert Hall 

2020 would have marked the 20th year of Teenage Cancer Trust’s phenomenally successful series of music and comedy events at The Royal Albert Hall, which were started by Roger Daltrey CBE. The gigs were to also help celebrate the 30th anniversary of Teenage Cancer Trust. 

Some of the biggest names in entertainment have now raised more than £30 million for Teenage Cancer Trust’s specialist nurses, hospital wards and support teams that help young people through the toughest times of their lives. 

Over the past 20 years, audiences at Teenage Cancer Trust’s annual gigs have witnessed some extraordinary, once in a lifetime shows, from Noel Gallagher and Damon Albarn performing together for the first time ever in 2013, Sir Paul McCartney in 2012, plus the likes of Oasis, Muse, Ed Sheeran, Florence + The Machine and many more. 

There have been many legendary moments.  Sir Paul McCartney was joined on stage in 2012 for the Beatles’ ‘Get Back’ by Roger Daltrey, Ronnie Wood and Paul Weller – marking a Beatle, Rolling Stone and The Who joining forces. 

Muse played in 2008, their only show in the UK that year apart from two sold out Wembley Stadiums. They called it, “one of the best gigs of our lives.” The Cure played a three-hour set on two consecutive nights in 2014, bringing the house down with 45 songs. 

Published in European News
Friday, 18 February 2022 09:01

James Cropper colours second life for plant waste

In an industry first, James Cropper has launched a coloured paper range using dye derived from plant extract which would have otherwise been wasted. The new Wainwright Colours from Nature range, which launches this month, is the papermaker’s latest in a list of innovations which create value from waste streams.  

With plant-based dyes more commonly used in the textile industry, the new collection marks the first application to paper; promising market leading environmental credentials without compromise on technical performance.  

The first two shades, Limestone and Herdwick Brown, are both derived from rosemary residue, a waste stream in some food production. The rosemary is grown as an annual agricultural crop before the non-edible waste from the plant is extracted and upcycled into the dye, which is added to James Cropper’s 100% FSC® recycled paper. 

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Designed primarily for the packaging and publishing sectors, extensive research and development work has ensured no compromise on the technical performance of the range.  The Wainwright Colours from Nature collection offers a bleed-free, rub resistant dye which has lightfastness similar to that achieved using industry standard synthetic dyes. 

The latest innovation from the Kendal-based papermaker heralds the first step in developing more sustainable colour options sourced from renewable origins that can be replenished responsibly, including food waste and inedible plant sources.  

The colours were created to celebrate James Cropper’s partnership with The Wainwright Prize, an annual literary award for the best UK-based nature and global conservation writing. The colours are inspired by author Alfred Wainwright’s love for the Lake District landscape and James Cropper’s desire to protect it. 

Joanne Storey, R&D Programme Lead at James Cropper comments: “Whether it’s used coffee cups, food waste or other pre and post-consumer waste, by repurposing these valuable streams, we continue to support transition to a more circular economy. 

“From the use of renewable materials and low impact manufacturing processes, to producing high quality products that are easy to recycle, we are committed to sustainability at every turn, and our expertise in colour is part of that.  

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“It’s the first-time plant-based dyes have been used in modern papermaking; a breakthrough which marks the first step into the development of more natural colour options. We are investigating botanical dyes extracted from a wide variety of origins including plants, shells and fungi; and expect the range to expand significantly.” 

The Wainwright Colours from Nature range is available from stock in 350gsm, ideal for presentation packaging, business stationery and invitations.  The natural dye technology can also be applied to bespoke projects through James Cropper’s Tailor Made service.  

For more information visit www.jamescropper.com/wainwright-coloursfromnature

About James Cropper   

James Cropper is a prestige paper innovator based in the English Lake District, supplying distinct, custom-made paper products to many of the world’s leading luxury brands, art galleries and designers.   

Throughout 175 years of high-quality paper production, the business has been carefully stewarded and nurtured by six generations of the Cropper family and is renowned globally for individual expertise in colour and fibre innovation.       

Published in European News

James Cropper’s Richard Burnett explains why expert blending of upcycled and virgin fibre is the key to connecting the three cornerstones of modern papermaking.

The feverish focus on sustainability in the paper and packaging world is no secret. Neither is it exclusive to this industry. But as we all work on ways to leave little to no trace on the planet, over our shoulder, the need for performance and beautiful design is still very much present. There is no compromising on aesthetics and functionality while we work on circularity. If anything, demand for premium papers which deliver functionality for the converter or printer, and brand experience to the end user is only growing.

How do we deliver on the three cornerstones of modern papermaking…performance, appeal and circularity? It begins and ends with fibre.

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With increasing legislative and consumer pressure on brands to do more for the environment when it comes to paper and packaging; giving waste fibre a second life is a great story to tell. However, we know through our own research and leading industry data that if you consider the carbon footprint, energy usage and water usage environmental indicators, there is no clear advantage or disadvantage to using wastepaper fibre feedstock over virgin wood.[1]

In fact, the majority of the impact for both recycled and virgin paper is attributable to the combustion of fuels for pulp and paper production. However, assuming best in class technology is used, the impacts from virgin and recycled paper are broadly similar.

But what if the reclaimed fibre comes from difficult to recycle, high-volume waste streams which would otherwise end up in landfill or incineration. This was the fate of 2.5 billion single use coffee cups every year until 2013, when James Cropper pioneered the world’s first technology to extract the good quality paper fibre used in coffee cups, and upcycle it into beautiful, premium paper. This is a rich, UK based fibre source, and the responsible thing is it to give it a second, third and fourth life; something our CupCyclingTM facility can do.

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The upside is not only environmental. This is a powerful story for brands to tell their consumers. The concept of circular design is ever present in the consumer mindset; but being able to say that your packaging was once a coffee cup takes it from the conceptual to the tangible. In turn, it garners brand loyalty.

Paper is sustainable by design. With the product cycle for paper encompassing renewable resources and recycling after use, paper truly embraces the principles of the circular economy.  However, it’s also worth noting that a paper cycle based on waste fibre alone is not a viable option, as the fibres degrade in the recycling process and become unusable in papermaking after multiple uses. Fresh fibre from responsible sources is a key element of a healthy eco system, and a balanced stream of fresh and waste fibre is always required to keep the paper cycle working. 

So while the right thing to do is to reclaim waste fibre, virgin fibre is also essential. Perhaps the solution is in variety and fibre blending? And the stats stack up.  A recent independent Life Cycle Analysis report on our Rydal Collection showed the environmental impact of each of the fibre options available in the range. These include 100% post-consumer waste recycled, 40% post-consumer waste (PCW) recycled and 100% fresh fibre from responsible forestry sources (FSC).

What became apparent was that the 40% recycled quality demonstrated more of a balance across the key measures;   

  • 100% PCW option showed least impact in terms of primary energy demand
  • The 100% virgin option showed least impact on freshwater consumption
  • There was no significant difference between the options on carbon footprint

The blended fresh and upcycled quality offers the best balance from an environmental perspective.

But what about appearance? What about the look and feel; the experience of paper which is also crucial to the consumer brand experience? Many believe that aesthetics and performance are best delivered through fresh fibre, since the paper fibres are cleaner and more consistent in quality; they have an affinity to colour and impart attributes such as stiffness and strength. Does the inclusion of reclaimed fibre sacrifice too much?

For us, there can be no compromise. With 175 years of premium papermaking knowledge behind us, we know that expertise in fibre selection and colour application, alongside a bespoke approach to each product, allow us to create paper products which give valuable waste streams a second life while maximising performance and aesthetics.

The fibre mix must be totally aligned to the end use, to ensure the paper quality performs well in subsequent print and conversion processes. For example, choosing only the very highest quality recycled fibre streams (such as CupCycling fibre) minimises issues with cleanliness to the point where we can confidently say that our reclaimed fibre is not just recycled, but upcycled. It is then blended to create something even more beautiful and premium than before.

It is true that some strength properties can be affected with the use of reclaimed fibre; however with 40% inclusion of some carefully selected pre and post-consumer, high strength fibre streams, we have seen excellent performance; further evidence that a blend is best. A great case study for this is our work with Burberry, which uses includes 40% CupCycling fibre for their packaging and retail shopping bags. Not only has this partnership seen 58 million coffee cups upcycled, but the end product is luxurious and robust.

Fibre selection, whether virgin or recycled is crucial in creating premium products which is why James Cropper develops and invests in world-leading technology to develop our own local source of very high quality pre and post-consumer upcycled fibre streams.

With all the evidence which we have to hand, it’s refreshing to conclude, that aesthetics and performance need not be sacrificed at the altar of circularity. It’s just in the blend.

[1] DEFRA - LCA of Paper Supply Systems

Published in European News

James Cropper has announced a three-year headline sponsorship of The Wainwright Prize, a prestigious nature writing prize, named after much-loved writer Alfred Wainwright, a Kendal local famous for his Pictorial Guides to the Lakeland Fells.

Having made fine papers for publishing, premium print, art and luxury packaging since 1845 in the very town where Alfred Wainwright lived and worked, the partnership underpins the shared history and purpose of the two organisations.   

In 2005, James Cropper produced a custom-made paper, matching the paper from the first editions, for the 50th Anniversary Wainwright pictorial guides that were once again printed in Kendal. 

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Publishers Frances Lincoln, in association with the National Trust, launched The Wainwright Prize for UK Nature and Travel Writing in November 2013. The prize aims to reward outstanding literary titles inspired by the general outdoors, UK nature, travel and conservation. 

Previous winners include The Seabird’s Cry by Adam Nicholson; Underland by Robert Macfarlane and Diary of A Young Naturalist by Dara McAnulty.  

For the second year, the prize includes an additional category for books on global conservation and climate change. In the midst of a pandemic, coupled with the ongoing climate crisis, the prize feels timelier than ever before, as recognition of the restorative role that nature plays, and the urgency with which it needs to be protected grows.  

Being located amongst the Lake District fells, stewardship of the natural environment is integral to the James Cropper business, and it is that mutual respect and celebration of nature and conservation that sit at the heart of the business’ sponsorship of the Wainwright Prize. 

As specialists in upcycling fibre, James Cropper created the world’s first recycling process dedicated to upcycling take-away cups. By harnessing the valuable natural fibres in the billions of coffee cups which are thrown away every year in the UK, the CupCycling® facility has closed the loop for what was once an enormous waste stream, giving it new life.  

Mark Cropper, James Cropper Plc, Chairman said: “Throughout society, people are increasingly rediscovering a love of books and spending more time connecting with nature and green spaces. We are delighted to support the authors involved in this year’s Wainwright  

Prize who are telling their story with paper; writing such wonderful books, and inspiring book lovers of all generations, to connect with the natural world and share an intrinsic attitude towards global conservation.” 

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The shortlisted authors will be announced on the 4th August with the longlist including authors such as David Attenborough, Helen Macdonald, James Rebanks and Dieter Helm.  

This year’s Nature Writing judging panel is chaired by TV presenter Julia Bradbury, and her fellow judges are: Geoff Duffield, Wildlife Trust volunteer and former publisher; Jessica J Lee, Editor WillowHerb Review; Mark Funnell, Communications and Campaigns Director, National Trust; Patrick Neale, Bookseller Jaffe & Neale and Andrew Willan, Wealden Festival Director. They are joined this year by TV presenter and author; Ray Mears. 

The Chair of Judges for the new Global Conservation Prize is BBC Countryfile presenter, Charlotte Smith. She is joined by Adrian Phillips, Environmental Professional; Dr. Craig Bennett, CEO UK Wildlife Trust; Rachel Woolliscroft, sustainability expert; Anita Longely, Chair, Institute of Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability and Nigel Roby, Community Energy Enthusiast and Strategic Advisor. 

Jane King, Step-Daughter of Alfred Wainwright said: “I am thrilled that James Cropper is sponsoring the Wainwright literary prizes this year. Growing up near the paper mill, I have always known the company, and their local knowledge and reputation for sustainability make them an ideal sponsor. I’m sure that Wainwright himself and my mother would have been delighted with the partnership.” 

This is the eighth year of this special prize, and the restorative effects of natural capital are reflected keenly in this year’s entries. The Wainwright Prize is about celebrating the wonder and awe of green spaces and natures creatures through the prism of our authors lives. 

About James Cropper: 

James Cropper is a prestige paper innovator based in the English Lake District, supplying distinct, custom-made paper products and packaging to many of the world’s leading luxury brands, designers, printers and publishers.    

Throughout 176 years of high-quality paper production, the business has been carefully stewarded and nurtured by six generations of the Cropper family and is renowned globally for individual expertise in colour and fibre innovation, including the award-winning CupCycling® process – taking used coffee cups and giving them a second life as beautiful papers.        

About the prize: 

Publishers Frances Lincoln, in association with the National Trust, launched The Wainwright Prize for UK Nature and Travel Writing in November 2013. The Prize aims to reward outstanding literary titles inspired by the general outdoors, UK nature, travel and conservation. Further details can be found at wainwrightprize.com   

Previous winners: Nature Prize 

  • 2014 - The Green Road into Trees: A Walk Through England by Hugh Thomson   
  • 2015 – Meadowland: The Private Life of an English Field by John Lewis-Stempel   
  • 2016 – The Outrun by Amy Liptrot   
  • 2017 - Where Poppies Blow: The British Soldier, Nature, The Great War by John Lewis-Stempel  
  • 2018- The Seabird’s Cry by Adam Nicholson   
  • 2019 – Underland by Robert Macfarlane  
  • 2020 – Diary of A Young Naturalist by Dara McAnulty 
  • Previous winners: Conservation Prize 
  • 2020 – Rebirding by Benedict Macdonald 

The 2021 Wainwright Prize for UK Nature Writing longlist is: 

Vesper Flights, Helen Macdonald, Vintage 

The Stubborn Lights of Things: A Nature Diary, Melissa Harrison, Faber 

Seed to Dust, Marc Hamer, Vintage 

The Screaming Sky, Charles Foster, Little Toller Books 

English Pastoral: An Inheritance, James Rebanks, Penguin Press 

Into The Tangled Bank, Lev Parikian, Elliot & Thompson 

Thin Places, Kerri ni Dochartaigh, Canongate Books 

Birdsong in A Time of Silence, Steven Lovatt, Penguin Press 

I Belong Here, Anita Sethi, Bloomsbury 

Featherhood, Charlie Gilmour, Orion Publishing Group 

The Circling Sky, Neil Ansell, Headline 

The Wild Silence, Raynor Winn, Michael Joseph 

Skylarks with Roise, Stephen Moss, Saraband 

The 2021 Wainwright Prize for Writing on Global Conservation longlist is: 

Entangled Life, Merlin Sheldrake, Vintage 

A Life on Our Planet, David Attenborough, Penguin Random House 

Islands of Abandonment, Cal Flyn, HarperCollins 

What If We Stopped Pretending, Jonathan Franzen, Fourth Estate 

Net Zero: How we Stop Causing Climate Change, Dieter Helm, HarperCollins 

Under A White Sky, Elizabeth Kolbert, Vintage 

A World on the Wing, Scott Weidensaul, Pan Macmillan 

Riders on the Storm, Alastair McIntosh, Birlinn Ltd 

Fathoms, Rebecca Giggs, Scribe 

The Reindeer Chronicles, Judith D. Schwarts, Chelsea Green Publishing 

Ice Rivers, Jemma Wadham, Penguin Press 

The New Climate War, Michael E. Mann, Scribe 

Published in European News
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