16 Dec. 2025: James Cropper Paper & Packaging has announced the appointment of Mike Gibson as its new head of business development, as the company aims to accelerate its expansion into new markets and product opportunities.
Gibson, who initially joined the materials manufacturer as business development manager in May, brings more than 25 years of experience across the paper, packaging, and corrugate industries, with expertise spanning carrier bags, food, and merchant packaging.
Gibson’s previous positions include senior roles at Cepac, H-Pack, and ARC International in the US, where he collaborated with corrugators nationwide and contributed to products including Marks & Spencer’s paper bag for life.
Alongside Gibson’s appointment, Julia Lawrence has been named head of regional accounts, joining Mickael Minot, who was also appointed brand owner director earlier this year, to complete the restructuring of the company’s sales team.
All three will now report directly to managing director Paul Barber, who was hired in May himself, aiming to reinforce a strong leadership framework to drive growth and innovation.
Barber says: “James Cropper is entering a new phase of growth. Following a period of realignment, the business is well-positioned to capitalise on emerging market opportunities, deliver innovative products, and expand across both premium and everyday packaging segments.”
Speaking following his appointment, Gibson says: “James Cropper is an exceptional name in the industry, with a heritage that spans centuries. Its reputation precedes it, and being part of this prestigious company really appealed to me.
“It’s an exciting time at James Cropper. The business has a rich heritage, and now it’s evolving for the modern era. I’m thrilled to be part of that transformation.”
In his new role, Gibson will look to build upon the recent launch of James Cropper’s Coloursource brand of paper materials.
Earlier this year, James Cropper vowed to “own the future of colour in paper” while announcing its new Coloursource paper range. Among its stated goals, the company said that it would be “doubling down on its UK roots”, with the entire Coloursource range being produced entirely on-site at James Cropper’s 180-year-old Burneside mill in Cumbria.
Gibson adds: “The senior leadership team is developing strategies and products that many in the industry may not yet realise we offer. Our goal is to ensure customers fully understand our capabilities, providing everyday essentials while maintaining the premium, made-in-the-UK standards James Cropper is known for.”
Other announcements from James Cropper in 2025 included a new board solution, Rydal Eco, made entirely from recycled paper fibres.
The aim of Rydal Eco is to provide sharper print, more vivid colours, cleaner die-cutting, and better registration when using finishing techniques such as varnishing and debossing, without the need to fell new trees.
By Jonathan Pert, PrintMonthly