James Cropper, a global leader in advanced materials and paper products, will showcase the immense opportunities that paper cups present at the Independent Paper Show in London this June.
The legendary paper product innovator, celebrating its 180th anniversary this year, will feature its sustainable, recycled paper cups at its exhibition stand. These cups, adorned in James Cropper’s signature electric green in partnership with Huhtamäki, leverage the innovative CupCycling© technology, a revolutionary process that diverts up to 700 million used coffee cups each year into high-quality paper products.
Alongside the cups, attendees will find a variety of colored swatches of Vanguard paper, an uncoated premium product consisting of 40% recycled material sourced through the same CupCycling© technology. Notably, each sheet of Vanguard incorporates approximately half a coffee cup.
“To transition to a circular economy, we need to maximize collaboration at every step of the material loop,” says Gareth Fisher, Sales Director at James Cropper. “CupCycling© demonstrates what is achievable when consumers, brands, and manufacturers unite with a shared purpose.”
“Events like the Independent Paper Show are crucial as they embody that collaborative spirit, connecting experts and innovators from diverse industries to inspire a brighter future. It’s an ideal platform to showcase what can be accomplished by enhancing access to recycled materials.”
James Cropper will unveil a creative application of recycled material from paper cups by featuring a new children’s book, titled Little Coffee Cup’s Big Surprise. The author, Hayley Slack, will join the event to share insights into her creative journey during the project.
Additionally, these materials were utilized in collaboration with Sheffield Hallam University, where design students conceived innovative lighting solutions utilizing advanced paper materials and Moulded Fibre. The winning design, Jonathan Bairnes’s Eclipsa table lamp, will also be presented at the stand. This elegant, cylindrical lamp, inspired by East Asian culture, uses two distinct paper materials to provide both hard and soft light.
“It’s a privilege for us to be joined by Jonathan and Hayley,” Gareth continued. “This show is all about collaboration, and we look forward to inspiring attendees while being inspired by our industry peers. Partnering with these talented creatives, who are making an impact in their fields with our materials, represents the future of our industry. We aim to encourage as many young professionals as possible to embark on their own journeys within food and drink sustainable packaging.”
The Independent Paper Show will be held on June 11-12 at Crypt on the Green in Clerkenwell, London, drawing industry professionals to the core of the UK’s creative scene. To learn more about James Cropper and its pioneering advancements in food and drink packaging, visit www.jamescropper.com.

