Visual Print’s MD moves To Solopress
Graham Hunstone, managing director of recently acquired print provider, Visual Print & Design, has been hired as head of partnerships by fellow UK printer, Solopress
Andrew Cockerill has been hired as business development manager by James Cropper Paper and Packaging, signalling its aims to expand within the corrugated and speciality paper markets
British papermaker, James Cropper Paper and Packaging, has announced the appointment of Andrew Cockerill as its new business development manager, as part of the company’s aims to expand its reach across the UK and European corrugated and speciality paper markets.
Cockerill arrives at the role with 27 years of experience across technical engineering, sales, and business development within the paper and packaging industries, having began his career as an engineering apprentice at packaging manufacturer, RPC Group.
Cockerill later specialised in polymer chemistry and material science before moving into technical sales and commercial roles. Over the course of his career, he has also held positions at DS Smith, Corrboard UK, Cartonerries Gondardennes, and Winfibre UK.
Speaking about his new role, Cockerill says: “James Cropper has a reputation that genuinely stands apart – not just for the quality of its paper, but for the depth of expertise behind it.
“Joining at a time when the business is investing, evolving, and sharpening its focus across different markets made it a very easy decision. It’s a great opportunity to be part of a business that can operate at both ends of the spectrum – delivering premium, highly specialised solutions while also supporting more scalable high-volume applications.”
In his new role, Cockerill will focus on developing the company’s corrugated and speciality paper offering, supporting volume growth while working closely with sales and technical teams to ensure customers benefit from both performance and consistency.
Paul Barber, managing director of James Cropper Paper and Packaging, adds: “We are delighted to welcome Andrew to James Cropper. He brings a rare combination of technical depth and commercial instinct, underpinned by decades of experience across the corrugated and wider packaging sectors.
“As we continue to balance premium innovation with scalable production, Andrew’s perspective will be instrumental in helping us grow in a way that is both sustainable and commercially robust, while continuing to deliver the quality and service our customers expect.”
Barber was himself hired as managing director almost exactly one year ago in March 2025, as part of the company’s ongoing transformation programme.
In recent years, James Cropper has unified its speciality paper, colourform, and technical fibre products under the core James Cropper brand name, as well as streamlining its portfolio and making several strategic key hires including Barber as managing director and David Stirling as its new chief executive officer.
Last year, the papermaker also announced the unification of more than 50 premium coloured paper shades under the single ‘Coloursource’ brand, announcing plans to “own the future of colour in paper.”
In recent weeks, international materials supplier Winter & Company announced the global expansion of Coloursource, with James Cropper’s range of premium coloured paper now available worldwide through an exclusive partnership.
