Red Paper picks up New Zealand mill agency business

It will join with the Group’s three other paper distribution businesses; Raleigh and Edwards Dunlop in Australia and BJ Ball in New Zealand.

Michael Kirby, the principal of Kirby Paper, will continue to manage the business and will report to the Group’s NZ CEO, Andrew Bull.

Kirby Paper represents a number of well established paper suppliers to the NZ market. At this stage it is not anticipated there will be a move into the Australian web market as a result of the purchase, although industry analysts consider it a likely future strategy for the ambitious group. The Australian market, however, is well-served with a number of mills having direct representation.

According to Tony Dragicevich, managing director, Michael Kirby’s expertise in the paper industry, developed over 25 years, will be a great asset to the Group.

“This is a positive move for Red Paper Group, broadening the product offer, and expanding the markets in which we operate,” he said.