Antalis Acquired Papyrus Distribution Assets
The deal expands Antalis' European reach, potentially shifting procurement options for over 13,000 customers.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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Antalis has signed a binding agreement to acquire Papyrus paper distribution operations across Germany, Switzerland, and eight Eastern European markets. The transaction aims to consolidate the distributor's B2B network and reach across the region.
Why it matters
This move strengthens the competitive footprint of Antalis as a major distributor by absorbing a network that currently manages 21,000 SKUs and 12 warehouses. For operators relying on these supply chains, the consolidation may lead to adjustments in vendor terms or available product ranges.
The acquired Papyrus assets generated €215 million in net sales during FY2025 and currently employ 255 people. The network includes 12 warehouses and services more than 13,000 customers with an inventory of 21,000 SKUs.
The players
Antalis
A European B2B distributor of paper, packaging, and visual communication materials.
Papyrus
A distributor of paper and packaging products with significant warehouse and customer operations in Central and Eastern Europe.
The details
The transaction includes distribution activities across Germany, Switzerland, Czechia, Slovakia, Hungary, Poland, Romania, and the Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. Operations for both companies remain independent until the deal receives the necessary competition authority approvals. Once finalized, the integration will combine these physical distribution assets into the broader Antalis B2B network.
Timeline
FY2025 marked the period in which the acquired businesses generated €215 million in net sales.
October 13, 2026, marks the date the acquisition agreement was officially signed.
Market Landscape
This acquisition follows a wider pattern of consolidation among large-scale European distributors seeking to capture economies of scale in regional logistics networks. The move mirrors industry-wide efforts to deepen regional market penetration through the absorption of established distribution footprints.
Operators currently sourcing through Papyrus should monitor account management transitions as regulatory approvals proceed. During this interim period, verify that existing supply agreements and service levels remain protected under current terms until the closing occurs.
The takeaway
Large-scale distribution mergers often signal shifts in regional product availability and logistics costs for B2B buyers. Businesses should audit their current supplier contracts and ensure they have a clear point of contact for service support as these entities finalize their integration.
Further reading
For more on industry consolidation, see Openings & Closings.
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