Antalis UK management changes

Antalis announces Simon Fisher as the newly appointed commercial director for its print, publishing, office and visual communications businesses following confirmation that Bruce Munro will retire after almost 29 years with the business

Munro, who will remain in the business to support the change until October 2021 commented: “Simon has worked for Antalis for over 18 years (having formerly spent 10 years with James McNaughton) and has a wealth of experience and industry knowledge to bring to the role having previously advanced through the business in various sales positions, including regional business director and national sales director. Simon has broad experience across the paper and visual communication markets in which we operate and has demonstrated unquestionable dedication and passion for both the business and industry.”

Fisher commented: “I am delighted to be following in Bruce’s footsteps and am fully committed to building on the great initiatives, products and services we have in place for our customers. The new KPP (Kokusai Pulp & Paper) Group’s ownership, announced last year, brings both stability and future opportunities to Antalis providing new levels of support from both existing and new suppliers. We are already benefitting from new investments as we continue to strengthen our position in various markets and plan for the future. It supports our strategy for innovation and future development, whilst opening up exciting new opportunities for our customers.

“The industry is continuing to evolve as customers learn to adapt and diversify to the challenging market conditions. We will remain innovative and adaptable, whilst providing leading products and services to meet these challenges and will continue to provide value and support to our customers.

“Like most, COVID-19 has been our most significant challenge, but we have been able to introduce new products such as the innovative Coala Coversafe™, an antimicrobial transparent film that eliminates up to 99.9% of viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for Covid-19.”

Manufactured by Gergonne, Coala Coversafe™ contains a patented technology developed by Pylote with mineral ceramic microspheres that act as a barrier to viruses and microbial activity. Suitable for a range of applications including light switches, door handles, handrails, desks, tables and counters, this revolutionary film allows for enhanced safety in public areas, workplaces and educational facilities.

Fisher continued: “One of our key areas of focus is our leading portfolio of sustainable products and services, to help customers and end clients reach their sustainability goals. This is an area where we will see more innovation and new products”.

Antalis recently launched its global initiative for more sustainable visual communications to meet the growing market demand for alternative solutions and recyclable materials. The transition to eco-responsible sign and display materials includes the creation of a Green Star System™, a framework that considers key factors such as the type of raw material used and the recyclability at end-of-life for each product and attributes a grade from zero to five stars. This measurement system allows Antalis’ clients to navigate through its product portfolio and make the right product choice from its expanding range of sustainable visual communication materials.

Finally, Munro added: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Antalis; it’s been a great experience with significant achievements and change throughout my tenure. The strength of the business is its people and that is clearly demonstrated by Simon’s appointment and the commercial team that he is inheriting.”