Independent Paper has celebrated its launch by announcing that parent company Denmaur Papers recorded a rise in turnover of nearly 20% to over 62m for the year to 30 April.

Denmaur made a gross profit of just over 6m. Independent Paper and Independent Paper (Northern) recorded sales of just over 9m and nearly 3m respectively.

Independent Paper was formed following the decision last year by Denmaurs board to combine Independent Paper and Independent Paper (Northern) into one company.

Chairman Mike Gee said the strategy was to develop strong regional centres in all parts of the country. It currently operates from Kent and Leeds.

"We can only be successful by building strong relationships with customers and suppliers," added Gee, who said the move would maximise the groups marketing, purchasing and logistical opportunities.

Jill Mannix, previously managing director of Independent Paper (Northern), heads the new operation as managing director.

Independent, which has adopted the tag line "making paper fly", will add two new stock ranges to its offering Fab from Smurfit Townsend Hook, and Burgos Larius, used for the 2001 Pirelli calendar.

"We hope that Independent Paper will be the most talked about merchant this millennium through our ongoing developments," said Gee.

Denmaur Papers mainly deals with the book publishing sector, but has added magazine publishers and large printers to its client base.

Story by Andy Scott