A PROUD LEADER IN THE PAPER INDUSTRY
PIONEERING QUALITY FOR OVER 165 YEARS
At Exacompta Clairefontaine, our products are crafted and distributed globally – from the enchanting streets of Paris to the bustling cities of Milan, Tokyo, and New York. Over generations, our notebooks, account books, correspondence tools, filing solutions, and fine art products, meticulously manufactured in our factories, have become the preferred choice for students, business professionals, and home offices.
With centuries of experience in our sectors, our legacy brands, such as Jacques Herbin dating back to 1670, and Clairefontaine, renowned for producing the ‘world’s best paper’ for over 165 years, embody our commitment to excellence. We leverage this rich heritage and expertise to develop innovative products and ranges tailored for the modern era.
Exacompta Clairefontaine proudly stands as the only group in Western Europe that is both a producer and processor of papers. This unique position empowers us to control all stages of manufacturing, ensuring constant high quality while prioritising sustainability.
GLOBAL REACH
Exacompta Clairefontaine stands as a global force in the paper industry, boasting a formidable presence with 34 production sites strategically located across the world.
TOP BRANDS
Explore our extensive portfolio featuring 15 of the industry’s most sought-after brands, each contributing to our legacy of excellence in the world of paper and stationery.
DIVERSE MARKETS SUSTAINABLE COMMITMENT
Our influence extends across five core markets, each representing a facet of our commitment to excellence:
• Paper
• Filing & Office Environment
• Day-to-day Stationery
• Fine Arts & Crafts
• Innovative Digital Solutions
DEDICATED WORKFORCE
With a dedicated team of over 3,485 members, Exacompta Clairefontaine is at the forefront of driving innovation and ensuring uncompromising quality in every aspect of our operations.
At Exacompta Clairefontaine, sustainability is more than a commitment; it’s a guiding principle. We focus on sustainable practices in paper production and corporate responsibility, ensuring our impact on the environment aligns with our dedication to quality.
EUROPEAN
MANUFACTURING
Our unwavering commitment to quality is showcased through European manufacturing, with over 95% of our production occurring in France and across Europe.
OUR
Established in 1897
INTEGRATION INTO CLAIREFONTAINE
A pivota l momen t o ccurre d i n 200 8 whe n th e compa ny underwen t a subs tantia l t ransformation, being a c quired by th e E xa compt a Clairefontain e g roup an d subsequentl y re -brande d a s E xaClai r Limited.
ABOUT OUR EXACOMPTA CLAIREFONTAINE GROUP
FINE CRAFTSMANSHIP
CRAFTING EXCELLENCE SINCE 1928
Founded in 1928, Exacompta traces its roots to a small workshop dedicated to crafting account books and diaries along the idyllic Canal SaintMartin in Paris. This historic significance of this workshop is heightened by its architect, Paul Friesé, a medallist at the 1900 World Expo.
A HERITAGE OF CRAFTSMANSHIP
Today, this location has evolved into a historic monument, expanding into adjacent buildings to become the largest stationery, filing and diary factory in the heart of Paris. Notably, Exacompta proudly upholds the ‘Made in Europe’ ethos for the majority of its products and holds the unique label of ‘Made in Paris’ for various product ranges.
EUROPEAN EXPANSION
Exacompta’s growth extends beyond its iconic Parisian roots. With 12 specialised production sites, including those in France, England, Austria, Germany and Romania, coupled with an advanced automated shipping platform in the Paris region, the brand has significantly diversified over the last three decades. Today, Exacompta stands as a major European player in the office supplies and stationery domain, embodying a legacy of craftsmanship and innovation.
& INNOVATIVE DESIGN
A LEGACY OF PAPER EXCELLENCE
Clairefontaine’s legacy in paper production dates back to 1858 when their mills were first established. Originating as craftsmen of traditional stationery products in the late 19th century, the brand reached a significant milestone in 1950 by introducing their first high-quality notebooks for students, laying the foundation for an extraordinary paper legacy.
INSPIRING QUALITY ACROSS GENERATIONS
Today, Clairefontaine is celebrated for its premium paper notebooks, inspiring quality through a diverse product range including stapled and wire-bound notebooks, art papers, craft products, gift bags, and wrapping paper. The Clairefontaine name and logo have become synonymous with global quality, and their notebooks and paper products, available in various designs, seamlessly marry functionality with aesthetic appeal. Over the years, Clairefontaine has emerged as a major player in the European stationery market.
SUPERIOR PAPER FOR PEN ENTHUSIASTS
A distinctive feature of Clairefontaine products is the use of super-smooth 90gsm brushed vellum paper, cherished by pen enthusiasts worldwide. This commitment to superior paper quality has been a cornerstone of their enduring success.
OUR COMPANY STRATEGY
Striving for innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction defines our company strategy
MISSION STATEMENT
To provide sustainable, premium stationery and arts & crafts products for the office, home, and educational markets, with the aim to improve a customer’s organisation, efficiency, and well-being without impacting the environment.
VALUES
At Exacompta Clairefontaine, our journey is shaped by a set of core values that define who we are. In the realms of office supplies and arts, these values serve as our compass, guiding us towards excellence, responsibility, and enduring relationships.
BOLD
We embrace change and fearlessly pursue innovation
CREATIVE
We foster a culture of imagination, originality, and ideation
AUTHENTIC
We maintain transparency and act with integrity
EFFICIENT
We ensure a focus on effectiveness and streamlined work flows
COMPANY PHILOSOPHY
CREATIVE INNOVATION
Our devoted workforce is the driving force behind our commitment to innovation and creativity. We continually push boundaries, ensuring our products stand out through a combination of cutting edge innovation and unwavering quality.
SUSTAINABILITY FOCUS
Dedicated to environmental responsibility, we are committed to developing eco-friendly alternatives. Sustainability is at the core of our practices, ensuring our impact on the planet is minimised while delivering top-notch products.
UNCOMPROMISING QUALITY
We instil confidence in end-users by upholding impeccable quality standards. From the selection of raw materials to the delivery of finished products, our commitment to uncompromising quality ensures customer satisfaction and trust.
INTEGRATED PRODUCTION & DEPENDABLE BRANDS
Our integrated production process guarantees quality assurance from the inception of raw materials to the completion of finished products. As a dependable European powerhouse, our three main brands— Exacompta, Clairefontaine and Rhodia —reflect our commitment to excellence.
STRATEGIC MARKETING & TRANSVERSAL SUB-BRANDS
We invest heavily in communication, promotion, and advertising, supporting our brands through reseller marketing tools. Our transversal sub-brands, such as Biella, Falken, Guildhall, Europa, and more, resonate with strong values across diverse markets.
CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT & SPECIALISED PRODUCTION
Our specialised production approach involves competitive and specialist plants for each product category, enabling us to offer competitive pricing on private label ranges. Continuous improvement is ingrained in our ethos, driving us to invest significantly in machinery, human resources, research, and development.
ECO-CONSCIOUS INITIATIVES
Since our establishment, the Exacompta Clairefontaine group has been unwavering in its dedication to sustainability. Over 90% of our products, created within the last five years, proudly bear environmental certifications, showcasing our ongoing commitment to responsible practices.
KEY PRINCIPLES OF OUR ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY
For over four decades, environmental protection has been at the heart of our corporate strategy. We strive to set industry benchmarks, and our commitment goes beyond words—our actions reflect our enduring dedication to the planet.
Leading-edge Waste Discharge Limitation: Our production sites stand at the forefront of waste discharge limitation, ensuring that our operations adhere to the highest environmental standards.
Sustainably Managed Forests: We source our pulp from sustainably managed forests, promoting responsible forestry practices and contributing to the conservation of our planet’s vital ecosystems.
Clean and Converted Energy: Our commitment to clean energy is not just a goal; it’s a reality. We actively pursue and invest in clean and converted energy sources, minimising our carbon footprint.
Promoting Recycled Alternatives: Our journey into sustainability is marked by a continuous push for recyclable alternatives. We actively promote and embrace materials that contribute to a circular economy, reducing environmental impact.
At Exacompta Clairefontaine, our eco-conscious initiatives aren’t just part of a policy—they are ingrained in our DNA. We are committed to fostering a sustainable future through responsible production practices and a relentless pursuit of innovation in environmental stewardship.
SOME ASSURANCES EXPLAINED
FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council®) is a non-government organisation whose goal is to promote the responsible management of the world’s forests to meet the needs of present and future generations.
PEFC (Programme for the Recognition of Forest Certification) is also an internation non-governmental organisation and world leader in forest certification, which aims to preserve the forests. The PEFC label provides consumers with the guarantee that the proudct they are buying comes from responsible sources.
Blue Angel is the oldest eco-label. This is a reliable and extremely demanding German certification, awarded to products that meet very strict criteria in the areas of environmental protection and health. Blue Angel certifies that products are made from recycled materials from post-consumer paper or plastic waste.
Card Made from New Fibres manufactured in a single homogenous layer regardless of its thickness. It is therefore stronger and more resistant. On the surface, it is polished using an exclusive process without varnish. Genuine Premium Pressboard is natural and durable.
The European REACH directive regulates the use of hamrful chemical substances. PVCs used within Exacompta products are phthalate-free and comply with the REACH directive.
The Global Recycled Standard (GRS) is an international standard, originally initiated in the textile industry, which establishes third-party certification criteria for a minimum recycled content in products, a chain of custody, demanding social and environmental practices and restrictions on the chemical composition of these products. Items certified and labelled GRS contain at least 50% post-consumer recycled content.
The ISO 9706 standard measures and guarantees the resitance and guarantees the resistance of paper to ageing. Filing and archiving items made from ISO 9706 certified paper or card guarantee an archival life of 100 years.
The DIN 6738 standard also guarantees resistance to aging for recycled papers, the performance of which is less than paper made from new fibres. Filing and archiving items made from DIN 6738 certified paper or card guarantee an archival life of 50 years.
License No. TE-00247442
Certified by Ecocert Greenlife
ABOUT OUR UK BRANDS
Established in 1928, Exacompta stands as a resolute brand, renowned for its excellence in filing and office essentials. Over the past three decades, the brand has undergone remarkable growth, evolving into a central hub for a diverse array of filing solutions, desktop accessories, and office stationery products.
At the heart of our extensive product portfolio are iconic designs originating from the UK, including the distinguished Chartwell, Guildhall, and Europa press board creations. Each product within our repertoire is meticulously crafted with precision and purpose, tailored to meet the unique demands of offices, homes, and educational environments.
Notably, our commitment to quality is exemplified through our desk accessories, backed by a generous warranty ranging from 5 to 25 years. This warranty serves as a testament to Exacompta’s unwavering confidence, regardless of whether they are crafted from paper, card, metal, or plastics.
With a legacy dating back to 1858, Clairefontaine has transcended the realms of traditional paper production, evolving into a top achiever in the stationery world. Originating as distinguished paper mills, the journey took a transformative turn in the late 19th century when we seamlessly expanded into the domain of traditional stationery.
In 1950, Clairefontaine made an impact in the stationery landscape by introducing high-quality student notebooks. This innovation marked a turning point in our trajectory, solidifying our reputation for producing premium paper products with an unwavering dedication to quality.
Today, our product range continues to be a testament to our legacy, featuring staples like wire-bound notebooks, art papers, craft items, gift bags, and wrapping paper. Each creation emanates a steadfast commitment to unparalleled quality, a legacy meticulously cultivated over decades.
As a favoured choice during ‘Back to School’ seasons, Clairefontaine offers more than just notebooks; it provides an experience. Our extensive range includes meticulously crafted pencil cases and organisational tools designed for students of all ages, enhancing the academic journey with style and functionality.
Rhodia notepads and notebooks have become a global symbol of excellence, embodying the spirit of its founders.
Named after its origins by the Rhône River in France, where locals are proudly known as Rhodaniens, Rhodia has etched its presence in 90 countries, selling millions of products annually. The brand’s journey began in September 1934 with a simple orange head-stapled notepad adorned with two fir trees—a humble start that represented the vision of the two founding brothers, symbolizing the enduring bond and commitment to quality that Rhodia represents.
Over 90 years later, Rhodia has fostered a genuine connection with users and garnering a devoted following across the world. The brand’s commitment to quality, durability, and timeless design has solidified its position as an indispensable companion in the creative journey of individuals globally.
Established in 1954 as a division of Girault, COGIR has evolved into a leading provider of innovative catering products. Originally focused on rolls and pads for restaurants, the landscape for COGIR changed significantly in 1999 with its acquisition by Exacompta. While Exacompta retained the manufacturing of rolls and duplicate books, COGIR strategically shifted its focus to specialise in the restaurant business.
Recognising the evolving needs of the market, COGIR expanded its product portfolio in 2002, introducing the COGIR hospitality brand. This strategic move marked the inception of a diverse range of catering products, with a particular emphasis on restaurant table accessories.
As an integral part of the Exacompta Clairefontaine group, COGIR continues to deliver excellence in the catering industry. Beyond its foundational offerings, COGIR provides a comprehensive and contemporary range of products, including tablecloths, place mats, napkins, and various other complimentary items.
Guildhall, a venerable name in the stationery industry, traces its origins back to when Tollit & Harvey was established in the late 19th century. Guildhall’s journey began as a response to the growing demand for reliable and meticulously designed business essentials.
The company’s early focus centred on manufacturing Guildhall account books, a product that swiftly gained recognition for its reliability and precision. As the company thrived, it continued to evolve, expanding its product offerings to meet the diverse needs of business, legal professionals, and financial institutions. Guildhall’s commitment to quality and innovation positioned as a trusted companion to the organisational journey of countless individuals and businesses.
Over the years, Guildhall has grown to encompass a comprehenesive range of stationery solutions, including filing products, notebooks, ledgers, and specialty items tailored to the specific requirements of professionals and organisations. With an enduring legacy, Guildhall remains deeply rooted in its commitment to providing stationery that seamlessly blends functionality and quality, embodying the essense of timeless craftsmanship.
Décopatch, an enchanting papercraft that captivates both children and adults, offers an enjoyable indoor activity suitable for anyone aged 3 and above. The magic of Décopatch lies in its simplicity and versatility, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a creative and immersive experience.
Décopatch originated in 1993, starting in a small garage in Lyon, France. A creative revolution began when an old-style wardrobe covered in dust was transformed using a sheet of incredibly fine and resistant Décopatch paper, a little glue, and a brush.
Décopatch extends beyond its collection of mini kits, boasting a vast range of over 200 paper designs and numerous creatures and shapes in various sizes, some towering up to an impressive 6 feet. This expansive variety allows crafters to explore boundless possibilities, transforming ordinary objects into extraordinary works of art
Engaging with Décopatch is easy and fun. Simply tear or cut the paper sheets into small pieces, apply the glue onto the shape, and arrange the paper fragments as desired. The result? Your very own unique masterpiece, crafted with love and imagination.
Avenue Mandarine is dedicated to enriching the lives of boys and girls aged 2 to 10. At the heart of our product lines lie the principles of safety, discovery, sensory awakening, and the joy of family sharing, forming an educational product.
Our curated collections span a wide spectrum of engaging activities, including colouring items, puzzles, educational games, creative kits, and haberdashery. Each product is meticulously crafted to ignite curiosity, foster learning, and provide hours of wholesome entertainment. We take pride in ensuring that all our offerings meet the stringent CE standard, with a commitment to sustainability evident in many items being printed on FSC® and PEFC certified paper.
In our pursuit of offering comprehensive creative solutions, Avenue Mandarine collaborates seamlessly with Maildor and Décopatch products. This collaboration enhances our range, providing a myriad of options for imaginative hobbies that captivate the young and the young at heart. Whether it’s the joy of discovering vibrant colours, solving puzzles, or engaging in educational games, Avenue Mandarine invites families to embark on a journey of creativity, learning, and shared moments.
Since its establishment in 1932, Maildor has been a pioneer in the realm of creative stickers and adhesives crafted specifically for children. Our tailored packaging solutions, including convenient hanging pouches for retailers and robust packs for school and community suppliers, are designed to meet the unique needs of diverse environments.
Boasting an extensive array of designs, available at wholesale prices, Maildor ensures that users can immerse themselves in the joy of collecting. The vibrant and imaginative stickers cater to every taste, making them a delightful addition to any creative endeavour.
To amplify the creative experience, we recommend pairing Maildor products with Avenue Mandarine offerings, such as creative boxes and games. This dynamic combination not only enhances the creative potential of younger users but also encourages a holistic and engaging approach to play.
At the heart of Maildor’s product development lie three core values: quality, design, and certification. Our commitment to these values ensures that each product meets the highest standards, providing both reliability and visual appeal. Maildor stands as a beacon for creative expression, offering an exciting and colourful journey for children and enthusiasts alike.
Established in 1989, Plastiline has been a steadfast in the realm of modelling clay, bringing precision and innovation to artistic and industrial endeavors. In 2021, Plastiline joined the Exacompta Clairefontaine group, reinforcing its commitment to excellence while exclusively manufacturing its products in France.
Plastiline is renowned for its non-toxic, sulphur-free composition, setting a standard for safety in the creative process. Crafted with a precision-ready formula, it offers unparalleled accuracy of reproduction within 1/10th of a millimetre, providing artists and creators with a tool that ensures the faithful realisation of their visions.
One of Plastiline’s distinctive features is its exceptional hold and volume retention, allowing for multiple remodellings without air drying. This characteristic ensures that your artwork remains unchanged and allows for continuous exploration and refinement of your creative ideas.
This versatile modelling clay is designed for a diverse range of users, including the industrial sector for prototyping and moulding, sculptors for creating models and mouldings, and the artistic field for film set creation. Plastiline also finds application in restoration work for antique objects and jewellery. Whether you are a professional in need of precision or a creative enthusiast exploring the world of modelling, Plastiline stands as a reliable companion, delivering accuracy and flexibility to your artistic endeavours.
Founded in 1670 in the heart of Paris by Mr. Jacques Herbin, the Jacques Herbin brand has been a beacon of excellence in the realms of ink and sealing wax. Initially established as a manufacturer of sealing wax, Herbin’s journey took an adventurous turn with travels to India, where he imported the first formula of shellac. This pivotal move not only enhanced the quality of his seals but also solidified his professional reputation, earning him international acclaim.
In 1798, Jacques Herbin took a bold step into the world of writing with the creation of his renowned line of writing inks. These inks, designed with precision and care, became a hallmark of the brand’s commitment to quality. Over the years, Jacques Herbin has expanded its offerings to include a spectrum of writing, drawing, and calligraphy inks, along with decorative wax, catering to the diverse needs of artists, writers, and creatives alike.
The curated Jacques Herbin Prestige collection pays homage to the brand’s enduring legacy, showcasing a rich heritage of craftsmanship and an unwavering commitment to excellence. As you explore the world of Jacques Herbin, you not only engage with premium products but also become part of a narrative that has shaped the art of writing and sealing for centuries.
Brause stands as the quintessential brand for calligraphers and letterers, offering a diverse range of products tailored to cater to all expertise levels and ages. Founded in the picturesque town of Iserlohn in 1830, nestled in the Westphalia region of Germany, Brause has been a trailblazer in crafting handcrafted steel calligraphy nibs that are revered by calligraphers globally.
Whether you’re engaged in writing, drawing, calligraphy, or decorative art, Brause products are meticulously designed to meet the demands of every style or experience.
Brause items seamlessly compliment other prestigious brands within the Exacompta Clairefontaine group, such as Jacques Herbin and G. Lalo. The synergy of these brands creates an unparalleled artistic experience, allowing creators to explore new dimensions in the world of calligraphy.
Steeped in history and Parisian charm, G. Lalo emerged as a symbol of fine correspondence products since its establishment in 1920. Founded by the visionary Georges Lalo, the brand’s roots trace back to a small printing and stamping workshop before blossoming into a luxury letter and envelope manufacturing company on the picturesque banks of the River Richer in Paris.
Driven by ambition and creativity, Georges Lalo realised his dream of crafting premium envelopes that embodied handmade artistry and superior quality. Today, G. Lalo stands tall as the French benchmark in social stationery, a testament to its enduring commitment to elegance and excellence.
As part of the illustrious trio alongside Jacques Herbin and Brause, G. Lalo ensures a seamless synergy of quality and craftsmanship. Elevate your correspondence with the unmistakable touch of elegance that defines G. Lalo—a brand that transforms every letter into a work of art.
Founded in 1865 in Belgium by Jacques Blockx I, the BLOCKX brand carries a rich heritage that continues to resonate with artists worldwide, particularly for the exceptional quality of its oil colours. The brand’s origins were rooted in a time when traditional colours crafted in artists’ studios were disappearing, being replaced by industrial methods. This shift led Jacques Blockx I, a chemist with a profound passion for colours and pigments, to embark on a mission to revive the beauty of these traditional hues.
The brand’s prestige is particularly evident in its oil colours and watercolours, which have become synonymous with excellence in the artistic community. In 2022, BLOCKX entered a new chapter by joining the Exacompta Clairefontaine group, a strategic move that not only fortified its legacy but also expanded its reach within the broader artistic landscape.
BLOCKX’s dedication to traditional craftsmanship is a hallmark of its identity. The brand’s commitment to sourcing high-quality pigments and crafting a palette that sparks creativity sets it apart as a preferred choice among artists. Whether catering to seasoned professionals or nurturing emerging talents, BLOCKX paints enrich the creative journey with a touch of historical legacy and a commitment to the highest standards of artistic expression.
In the vibrant city of Prague, Czech Republic, the polymer clay phenomenon known as Cernit was born in the tumultuous sixties. Conceived by a pair of scientists, the clay derived its name from one of its creators, Cerna. Forced to emigrate to Germany in 1963, the duo sought an investor through a newspaper ad to propel the development of their innovative product.
Cernit quickly gained recognition as a distinguished brand specialising in polymer clay. Its journey from Prague to Germany was marked by resilience and determination, capturing the imagination of artists and crafters alike. The year 2023 ushered in a significant milestone for Cernit as it became an integral part of the Exacompta Clairefontaine group, solidifying its position as a valuable commodity in the realm of arts and crafts.
Cernit polymer clay stands out for its specialisation in vibrant colour palettes and innovative offerings. A top choice for crafting intricate jewellery, detailed sculptures, and various artistic creations, Cernit’s exceptional pliability and precision in capturing fine details make it a favoured medium among artists of all skill levels. As it continues to inspire creative endeavours, Cernit remains a symbol of crafting excellence, bridging the past with a future enriched by boundless artistic possibilities.
Originally renowned for its varnish, Darwi has expanded its product portfolio to become a comprehensive crafting brand, offering a diverse array of products tailored to meet the demands of various artistic pursuits. In addition to its varnishes, Darwi now presents a range of self-hardening clays, acrylic drawing inks, and various types of paints designed for all your crafting needs.
The evolution of Darwi’s varnish range is noteworthy, now encompassing Darwi alcohol varnish, glossy acrylic varnish, cutting glue, and several cracking varnishes. Among the standout products is a super strong acrylic glue, a source of pride for Darwi due to its remarkable efficiency.
Since its inception, Darwi has consistently adapted and expanded its offerings, showcasing a commitment to innovation and quality. This dedication to crafting versatility and the development of high-quality products positions Darwi as a dynamic force in the crafting industry, catering to the diverse needs of artists and creators.
Founded in 1890 by Henri Dupont, H Dupont has stood as a beacon of colour excellence in the realm of fabric dyeing. From its inception, the brand’s mission has been to infuse fabrics with a magnificent glow through a diverse range of delicate colours. Today, H Dupont proudly continues its legacy in Belgium, where it manufactures renowned ranges like classique and the heat-fixed Arasilk selection.
The brand’s commitment to quality extends beyond its core offerings. H Dupont provides a suite of auxiliaries to support various techniques, making it a steadfast companion for artists exploring batik, double dyeing, fading, and more. The brand’s comprehensive range of products empowers artists to unleash their creativity and bring vibrant visions to life.
In a significant development, 2023 marked H Dupont’s integration into the Exacompta Clairefontaine group. As part of the group, H Dupont remains a trusted name, upholding its commitment to quality and innovation. The brand continues to support artists from their initial silkpainting ventures to their most ambitious creations, ensuring that every artistic journey is infused with the brilliance and excellence synonymous with H Dupont.
We value your inquiries and feedback. Our dedicated team is here to assist you and provide the information you need. Feel free to reach out.
We have a variety of retail display systems to meet your in-store needs, offering an excellent way to showcase our products. We provide several strategies to boost sales for our UK dealers, such as social media support, point-of-sale materials, and in-store promotions.
ExaClair Limited
Oldmedow Rd
King’s Lynn
Norfolk
PE30 4LW
United Kingdom
Our skilled crafting demonstrators can also attend promotional events and new store openings. Feel free to enquire for more information
www.exaclairlimited.com
www.exaclairshop.co.eu
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