Australian Paper - manufacturer of the leading Reflex brand - has signed a deal to acquire BJ Ball's office products division ED Office Products (EDOP) for an undisclosed sum - subject for regulatory approval.
In a statement, Australian Paper said the deal was based on the synergies between the two businesses. This opportunity is good news for Australian manufacturing and the thousands of local jobs that Australian Paper proudly supports.
EDOP has been a leading supplier of office paper and stationery products to the Australian market for many years.
Australian Paper has been manufacturing paper in Victoria’s Latrobe Valley since 1937 and the acquisition is the most recent step in a turnaround plan announced in 2015, aimed at growing consumer demand for local recycled paper and manufacturing premium office paper for the Australian and New Zealand markets.
The company promised customers a smooth changeover.
Australian Paper and EDOP are committed to creating the smoothest transition possible for customers. Australian Paper will continue to honour EDOP’s current commercial arrangements and is fortunate to already have successful trading relationships with many of EDOP’s customers around Australia.
Australian Paper is committed to demonstrating the value of its local manufacturing offer to all new customers, and will work hard to maintain broad customer support as it continues to strengthen its domestic office paper business. Over time, Australian Paper will be replacing products that are currently imported, with locally manufactured, competitively priced office paper.