On Tuesday 21st May 2024 representatives from across the UK’s Paper-based Industries gathered in Stationers’ Hall, London, to celebrate the achievements of the industry.
The event was hosted by Andrew Large, Director General of the Confederation of Paper Industries. Two-time Paralympic Gold medallist, Richard Whitehead MBE, presented the awards and delivered an inspiring speech emphasising the importance of diversity and inclusion from a disability perspective. He highlighted how fostering an inclusive environment not only benefits individuals with disabilities but also enriches the industry as a whole. By embracing diverse perspectives and creating accessible workplaces, the paper industry can drive innovation, improve employee wellbeing, and enhance overall performance. Richard’s message underscored the need for continued efforts to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their abilities, have equal opportunities to contribute and succeed.
The awards recognised success across seven categories: Recycling, Net Zero, Community Engagement, Health & Safety, Sustainable Innovation, Skills, and Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). The seven winners, with two winners in the Sustainable Innovation Category, listed below were presented with a trophy. The Paper Gold Medal, given to an individual who has demonstrated excellence and achievement, beyond their normal duties, and who has made a unique contribution to the wider UK’s Paper-based Industries, was also presented.
RECYCLING AWARD
WEPA UK Ltd
NET ZERO AWARD
Kimberly-Clark
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AWARD
Smurfit Kappa Leeds
HEALTH & SAFETY AWARD
(WINNER) – Sonoco: Stainland Board Mills
(HIGHLY COMMENDED) – Board24
SUSTAINABLE INNOVATION AWARD
James Cropper PLC
Sonoco Europe with Kellanova
SKILLS AWARD
DS Smith plc
EDI AWARD
Northwood Hygiene Products Ltd
THE PAPER GOLD MEDAL
Tim Gray
The awards drew submissions from a diverse spectrum of participants, showcasing the abundant talent within the industry. The calibre of entries not only highlighted the industry’s accomplishments but also underscored their broader significance.
These achievements spanned various areas, including advancements in sustainability and heightened recycling rates, investments in workforce development and apprenticeships, enhancements in health and safety protocols, and fostering positive community engagements.
Andrew Large said: “This year’s winners of the Paper Industry Gold Awards stand as testament to the remarkable development and transition of our industry over time. From all sectors of our dynamic and innovative industry, the recipients embody the evolution that propels our industry forward. Their unwavering dedication to innovation, sustainability, and excellence has set a new standard for the future of paper and its products. As we celebrate their achievements, we are reminded of the rich history and bright future of the Paper Industry.”
At the ceremony the Paper Gold Medal was presented to Tim Gray. Andrew Large said: “Tim has been awarded the Paper Gold Medal in recognition of his tireless, voluntary leadership of the Sheet Plant Association (SPA). UK Sheet Plants are an integral part of the packaging supply chain, yet are too often neglected. Tim’s drive and enthusiasm for the SPA has professionalised and revolutionised that sector. He leads in sharing expertise from the UK and around the world and in developing initiatives such as the Corrugated Trade Show that provide a forum for the industry to showcase itself to customers and suppliers.
In his acceptance speech, Tim said: “I would like to thank industry colleagues for the nomination and the CPI, the Paper Industry Gold Medal Association, and the judging panel for this award, that I will treasure and be very proud to hold. … As part of this award I have been asked to write a paper on a subject of my choice for publication – I have accepted the challenge – I assure I am no poet laureate, and my paper will not win academic acclaim. It will however be written from the heart and will strike a chord with many who read it.”
