Antalis buys Ovenden Papers assets and trade to integrate customers and operations

# What happened

# What Antalis says it will do

Antalis intends to keep Ovenden trading under its family name while providing support through Antalis' UK and Ireland network. The company's stated immediate priority is to ensure continuity of supply and service for Ovenden's customers during the transition. Antalis will conduct a detailed operational review to determine how the business will be developed within its wider organisation.

Nick Thompson, regional managing director for Antalis UK&I, framed the acquisition as a route forward after Ovenden entered administration. He highlighted Ovenden's customer relationships, experienced employees and market knowledge, and said Antalis sees opportunity to combine those strengths with its own product portfolio, distribution network and technical expertise.

# Why this matters to customers, suppliers and employees

Customers: Antalis is prioritising uninterrupted supply and service. That suggests existing orders and supply lines are being maintained while Antalis reviews operations and integration steps.

Suppliers: The deal transfers the trading relationships to Antalis, which has a broader purchasing and distribution footprint that could affect supplier volumes and logistics arrangements.

Employees: Staff were part of the acquired assets. Antalis has said it will work with Ovenden's employees as it completes the operational review, indicating the potential for retention and redeployment within Antalis' network.

# How this fits into Antalis' network and capabilities

Antalis is part of KPP Group Holdings and operates in 32 countries. The company runs 105 logistics centres and serves around 100,000 customers. The acquisition strengthens Antalis' presence in the UK paper merchanting market by adding Ovenden's customer base and local market knowledge to Antalis' product range, distribution capacity and technical resources.

# Immediate next steps and what to expect

• Maintain trade under the Ovenden Papers name while supporting operational continuity.
• Carry out a detailed review of Ovenden's business and operations to determine integration and future development.
• Work with Ovenden's employees, customers and suppliers during the transition period.

Antalis has said it will provide further updates as the transition progresses and the initial operational review is completed.

# Bottom line