Buhrmann is forecasting that paper consumption will grow faster than GDP, and that paper prices will remain stable in 2001.


This comes on the back of results for the fourth quarter and 2000. Turnover for the paper merchanting division rose 26% to 1.89bn.


Net profit for merchanting rose 53% to 132m, while net profit for the fourth quarter rose 50% to 47m.


Buhrmann is also forecasting that its Office Products division in North America and Europe will show higher organic growth than in 2000.


This follows the full integration of the Corporate Express business, which has resulted in improved synergies and developed stronger market positions for the division.


Buhrmann said the integration of the recently acquired Samas Office Supplies division would improve the results of the European Office Products division.


Group turnover for the year increased by 65% to 6bn, with Q4 turnover up 37% to 1.6bn.


The companys divisions are generating annual B2B internet sales of 452m, an 80% increase on last year.


E-commerce sales currently represent 7.5% of total sales, a figure that Buhrmann is expecting to grow significantly faster than the total business.


This follows last Octobers announcement that Buhrmann would invest 62.8m over the next three years to grow its e-business capabilities.


Story by Andy Scott