In a pivotal move that positions James Cropper Plc for future expansion in the advanced materials and paper sector, the company has announced David Stirling as its new Chief Executive Officer. He is set to take on the role in early 2025, succeeding Steve Adams, who has been at the company’s helm through a period of significant transition. Adams will officially step down early next year, paving the way for Stirling, a seasoned executive with a proven track record in the materials industry, to lead James Cropper into a new era.
This leadership shift comes as James Cropper, renowned for its sustainable and innovative paper and materials products, sets ambitious targets for growth across international markets and diverse industries. The decision, confirmed after an exhaustive search by the Nomination Committee, reflects the board's confidence in Stirling’s expertise and vision to accelerate the company’s trajectory.
A Look at David Stirling’s Journey: From Zotefoams to James Cropper
David Stirling is no stranger to steering complex organizations towards sustainable growth. He brings to James Cropper over two decades of executive experience as the former CEO of Zotefoams plc, a leading cellular materials company, where he guided the business through dynamic market changes and notable expansion. His career began as a chartered accountant with KPMG in the UK and PricewaterhouseCoopers across the US and Europe before he transitioned into industry-specific roles. His hands-on approach to scaling businesses has been defined by strategic exploration of new markets, diversification of product applications, and an unwavering focus on sustainability—qualities that align with James Cropper's mission to drive sustainable innovation in advanced materials and paper.
Building on Success: Acknowledging Steve Adams’ Legacy
Under Steve Adams’ leadership, James Cropper has bolstered its reputation as a pioneer in sustainable paper products and advanced materials. Adams joined the company in 2017, initially heading the Paper & Packaging division, before taking the CEO role in 2022. During his tenure, Adams played an instrumental role in guiding the company through the challenges posed by a shifting economic landscape and supply chain pressures, enabling it to emerge stronger and more agile. Reflecting on his contribution, Mark Cropper, the company’s Non-Executive Chair, expressed gratitude: “Steve has successfully guided the company through a challenging period and leaves James Cropper well-positioned for growth as an advanced materials enterprise.”
Vision for the Future: Innovation, Sustainability, and Market Expansion
The board’s decision to bring Stirling onboard underscores James Cropper’s commitment to scaling its capabilities in sustainable paper and materials solutions. Mark Cropper remarked, “David has a demonstrated history of driving growth in materials businesses through the development of new products and the exploration of new markets across various applications on a global scale. I am confident that his robust leadership and strategic vision will leverage the strength and value of our offerings across our international markets and diverse clientele.”
Stirling himself expressed excitement about the future, saying, “I am thrilled to join the team at James Cropper and eagerly anticipate collaborating with the board, executive team, and broader workforce to create value across the advanced materials and paper and packaging product portfolio.”
James Cropper: Pioneers in Sustainable Paper and Advanced Materials
Founded in 1845 in the heart of the Lake District, James Cropper Plc has grown from a traditional paper mill into an international leader in sustainable paper and advanced materials. With nearly two centuries of heritage, the company has earned a reputation for innovation, environmental stewardship, and quality craftsmanship, positioning it as a go-to provider for clients across industries, from luxury brands to tech giants.
Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation
James Cropper has long embraced sustainable practices, well before they became mainstream in manufacturing. Known for its signature Colorform™ molded-fiber packaging—a fully recyclable and biodegradable alternative to plastic—the company has been pivotal in reshaping packaging for a sustainable future. Their expertise extends beyond paper products to advanced materials, offering environmentally friendly solutions that are increasingly in demand by consumers and companies alike.
One of the company’s recent innovations is CupCycling™, a groundbreaking process that upcycles used coffee cups into high-quality paper. Through CupCycling™, James Cropper has diverted millions of coffee cups from landfills, converting waste into new, valuable material used in everything from packaging to premium stationery. This dedication to closed-loop processes and sustainable innovations has allowed James Cropper to stand out, particularly in the global drive towards zero waste.
The Global Reach of a British Brand
From its historic mill in Burneside, England, James Cropper serves customers across Europe, North America, and Asia. The company’s bespoke products are sought after by top-tier clients, including luxury brands, tech firms, and companies across sectors who prioritize sustainability in their supply chains. With a strong international footprint, James Cropper’s products have found a place in luxury packaging, eco-conscious retail, high-performance applications, and even in the art world, where color precision and quality are paramount.
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Looking Ahead: A New Era of Leadership and Expansion
As David Stirling prepares to assume the role of CEO, James Cropper’s legacy of sustainable innovation is set to continue, with ambitions to expand further into advanced materials and new markets. The company remains committed to exploring novel applications for its materials, responding to global trends, and serving industries that demand sustainable solutions at scale.
James Cropper’s journey from a traditional paper mill to a forward-thinking materials powerhouse is a testament to its adaptability and dedication to environmental stewardship. With Stirling’s leadership, the company’s vision to drive sustainability and innovation into its third century appears more promising than ever.
A Bright Horizon for James Cropper in Advanced Materials and Sustainability
As James Cropper continues to prioritize environmental responsibility, Stirling’s appointment signals a renewed commitment to innovation within the circular economy. The company has been at the forefront of sustainable papermaking, with several initiatives focused on recyclable, compostable, and biodegradable packaging options, tailored to meet the growing demand for eco-friendly solutions worldwide.
With Stirling’s leadership, James Cropper aims to deepen its impact in new markets, from luxury packaging and high-performance materials to technology-driven applications. His focus on driving growth through new product development and strategic market exploration will likely position James Cropper to expand its customer base, address emerging industry needs, and maintain a competitive edge in the sustainability space.
The Road Ahead
As David Stirling prepares to take the reins, industry observers and stakeholders alike will be watching closely. His extensive experience, coupled with the company’s strong foundation and commitment to innovation, suggests a promising future for James Cropper as it strives to be a global leader in sustainable materials and advanced paper solutions.
