Top 10 Best Paper Goods Manufacturers in Forest of Dean

Paper Manufacturing and the Forest of Dean

A district famous for its forests has a natural connection to paper. The Forest of Dean's town of Lydney has long been associated with specialty paper and fibre manufacturing, and the riverside location has supported industrial production for generations. Today, paper goods manufacturing across the region includes specialty fibre materials, corrugated packaging, protective packaging and fine papers used in art and printing.

Paper products are enjoying renewed demand as businesses replace plastic packaging with recyclable alternatives. E-commerce growth has also increased demand for boxes and protective materials. This guide highlights ten paper goods manufacturers that operate in or serve the Forest of Dean.

Why Paper Goods Matter to Local Businesses

Forest of Dean businesses, from food producers and manufacturers to retailers and tourism operators, rely on paper goods for packaging, labelling, printing and hygiene. Paper-based packaging is recyclable, renewable and widely accepted by consumers. Working with reliable suppliers ensures consistent quality and availability, while choosing certified sustainable fibre supports responsible forest management, a value close to the hearts of Forest residents.

The Top 10 Paper Goods Manufacturers Serving the Forest of Dean

1. Glatfelter Lydney (now part of Magnera)

The specialty fibre mill in Lydney has been one of the Forest of Dean's most significant industrial sites. Operated for many years by Glatfelter, which combined with another nonwovens business to form Magnera, the site produces specialty fibre-based materials used in applications such as tea and coffee filtration and composite laminates. It is a major local employer with deep roots in the community.

2. Leeways Packaging Services

Leeways Packaging Services in Cinderford provides packaging solutions to businesses across the region. It supplies boxes, protective packaging and transit materials, helping Forest manufacturers and retailers ship products securely. Its local presence allows responsive service and tailored packaging advice.

3. Hollingsworth & Vose

Hollingsworth & Vose is a global manufacturer of advanced filtration media and specialty papers, with operations in Gloucestershire. Its engineered fibre materials are used in air and liquid filtration, energy storage and industrial applications. It reflects the region's long tradition of innovative fibre manufacturing.

4. Smurfit Westrock

Smurfit Westrock is one of the world's leading paper-based packaging companies, operating corrugated packaging plants and paper mills across the UK. It produces boxes, displays and sustainable packaging solutions for food, retail and industrial customers throughout the South West and Wales.

5. DS Smith

DS Smith is a major manufacturer of corrugated and fibre-based packaging, now part of International Paper. It operates numerous UK sites and has been a leader in replacing plastic packaging with recyclable fibre alternatives. Its scale and design expertise make it a key supplier to manufacturers and retailers.

6. Saica Pack

Saica Pack produces corrugated packaging across the UK and Europe. It focuses on sustainable, recyclable packaging solutions and works closely with customers to develop efficient packaging designs. Its regional plants serve food, drink and manufacturing businesses.

7. St Cuthberts Mill

St Cuthberts Mill in Somerset produces fine art papers, including mould-made watercolour and printmaking papers used by artists worldwide. The Forest of Dean's thriving community of artists, printmakers and galleries makes high-quality art papers like these especially relevant.

8. James Cropper

James Cropper is a historic British paper manufacturer known for coloured specialty papers, luxury packaging materials and innovative fibre products. Its papers are used in premium packaging for luxury brands, publishing and design. It is also a pioneer in recycling coffee cups into new paper.

9. Antalis UK

Antalis is a leading distributor of papers, packaging and visual communication materials. It supplies printers, designers and businesses with a vast range of paper products from manufacturers worldwide. Forest of Dean printers and marketing businesses often rely on such distributors for consistent supply.

10. Essity

Essity is a global hygiene and health company producing tissue and paper hygiene products used in homes, offices, hospitality and healthcare. Its professional hygiene products are found in many Forest of Dean hotels, restaurants and workplaces.

How to Choose a Paper Goods Supplier

Consider sustainability certifications such as FSC and PEFC, which confirm fibre comes from responsibly managed forests. Ask about recycled content, recyclability and design support to optimise packaging size and strength. Compare lead times, minimum order quantities and stock-holding options. Local suppliers can offer faster delivery and flexible service, while large manufacturers provide scale and innovation.

Paper Industry Trends

The shift from plastic to paper-based packaging continues across food, retail and e-commerce. Lightweight, high-strength corrugated grades are reducing material use. Paper-based barrier coatings are enabling recyclable alternatives for food packaging. Mills are investing in energy efficiency and lower-carbon fuels, and extended producer responsibility rules are encouraging recyclable packaging design.

Final Thoughts

The Forest of Dean's connection to paper goes beyond its trees. With specialty fibre production in Lydney, packaging specialists in Cinderford and access to some of the UK's leading paper manufacturers, local businesses are well served. Choosing sustainable paper goods supports both business needs and the woodland heritage that defines the Forest.