Leading Australasian paper, packaging and print media distributors, BJ Ball and K.W. Doggett Fine Paper have announced the two businesses will combine. This new entity will become the largest, most diversified paper, packaging and print media distribution business across both Australia and New Zealand.The transaction remains subject to conditions, including ACCC approval.
In addition, global industry player and leading Japanese pulp and paper company JP will also acquire a 51% stake in the new entity. JP is a global paper distributor with operations across 22 countries and a heritage that began in 1845.
According to Craig Brown, BJ Ball CEO, “BJ Ball has always strived to be a diversified and progressive supply partner to the graphic communications market. Joining forces with K.W. Doggett Fine Paper and JP has been carefully considered and we have no doubt this next step will future-proof our position while also being supportive of the industry long-term.”
“Through pooling our resources and accessing JP’s global network, we will create a more robust and resourced business. We believe this will add value for customers on both sides of the Tasman.”
“With the print market changing globally, this new entity is structured to meet the future head-on. Through combining two strong businesses and adding a heavyweight global partner, our business will have enhanced buying power, better access to new product categories, continuity of supply and a business model which is sustainable long term (both for suppliers and staff).”
K.W. Doggett Fine Paper is a family-owned business that strongly values culture and service, according to Simon Doggett, Managing Director. “We are extremely proud of our achievements as a family owned and operated business. Ken Doggett started the Company in 1975 as a one-man operator and since then we have grown to be one of Australia’s largest suppliers to the paper and packaging industry.”
The merger will see the Doggett family remain actively involved in growing and shaping the new business but will allow Ken and John [Doggett] to retire from day to day activity. Simon says “The coming together of three industry aligned stakeholders means we can fast track diversification, improve customer value and bring our ‘way of doing business’ to a much bigger platform. High levels of customer service and providing staff with a great place to work are a key focus for the new entity”.
Akihiko Watanabe, President, JP says “the Australasian market has long been attractive to JP. The opportunity to enter this market with such a strongly-aligned partner enables us to leverage significant existing relationships and introduce more diverse products here. We look forward to the ongoing benefit this will bring to the market and customers and becoming a long term partner to the ANZ market.
Who is BJ Ball?
BJ Ball is market leader across a wide range of industry sectors in Australia and New Zealand. It consists of a number of specialised business units servicing the print and packaging industries. The business was established 90 years ago and has successfully innovated and evolved to remain a highly effective player in the fast-moving paper industry.
Who is K.W. Doggett Fine Paper?
K.W. Doggett Fine Paper is a long-standing player in the Australian print and packaging industries. The business was founded 42 years ago by Ken and John Doggett and until now, has been family owned and operated. Doggett’s have a strong national footprint and a reputation for quality and reliability.
Who is JP (Japanese Pulp & Paper)
JP was founded in 1845 and has the largest paper and paperboard distribution business in Japan. It has a global network spanning 22 countries and 50 cities with strengths in procuring from domestic and overseas pulp and paper manufacturers.
The JP business has a long-standing passion for paper and today, is focused on the evolving and changing role of paper in the lives of people and society.
BJ Ball Group
www.bjball.com.au
K.W. Doggett Fine Paper
www.kwdoggett.com.au
