Award-winning stationery

Innovative and contemporary designs remain key to Clairefontaine’s success

Since 1858, Clairefontaine has created extraordinary premium stationery with exceptional paper quality. With strong aesthetics and innovative manufacturing processes, combined with the rich tradition of producing paper products, it is one of the few manufacturers across the world to still use its own paper mills.

With several industry events and new product launches taking place over the past few months, it’s been a busy start to the year for Norfolk-based ExaClair Limited, which is the UK subsidiary of Exacompta Clairefontaine group.

However, the team were left celebrating following a successful appearance at the 2023 Stationery Matters Awards, which were held at the Business Design Centre in Islington, as part of the recent London Stationery Show.

Licensed Product of the Year

After withstanding stiff competition within its category, Clairefontaine’s Inkebana notebook collection was named as Licensed Product of the Year. Created by Parisian designer Sophie Griotto, these notebooks are part of a wider selection of stationery accessories that combines the concepts of Ikebana, which is the traditional Japanese art of arranging floral compositions, with the artistic flair discovered through ink. Sophie brings her imagery to life by mixing shades of blue ink with aspects of yellow that are integrated as a contrast within these designs. As with all notebooks and journals from the collections range, these products feature the PEFC-certified 90gsm brushed vellum Clairefontaine paper that is loved by pen fans globally.

Diary, Organiser or Calendar of the Year

The new Mini Planner from the Evanescence collection was highlighted within the finalists for the popular Diary, Organiser or Calendar of the Year award. Featuring a handy ‘to do’ tick box list, a grid for bullet journalling and a separately shaded area for doodling and sketching, the item illustrates the designs of French artist Edith Duprez-Chenu, drawing inspiration from her experiences working with fashion designers John Galliano and Christian Dior.

Writing Instrument of the Year

Perfect for any aspiring calligraphy enthusiasts, the new Jacques Herbin Kenzo Takada gift set was shortlisted within the Writing Instrument of the Year category. Featuring the stylish designs of the Kenzo Takada license, the set features a Jacques Herbin glass pen, a 10ml Kenzo Takada Shogun ink bottle, and a calligraphy pad, which contains 52 sheets of varying paper weights and colour.

Expanding upon the previously launched Kenzo K3 range, which incorporates a bronze silkscreen printing with matt lamination effect, it combines beautifully with the luxurious twilight-coloured ink that merges with fine red and gold glitter elements. The resulting hue is evocative of certain armours from the Shogun era, for which Kenzo held a fine appreciation.

Notebook or Journal of the Year

Another bestselling premium brand that is part of the Clairefontaine family is Rhodia, which has grown a cult-like following across many continents for almost 90 years. Full of timeless character with a simple and distinctively refined style, Rhodia has been a proven favourite of writers, designers, and artists since its establishment by the river Rhône in southeastern France in 1934. More than just a flagship brand for stationers and boutique gift stores, it is an iconic brand that is sold worldwide.

The importance of mental health and wellbeing has been at the forefront of people’s minds during recent times and journalling is known to have great therapeutic qualities. The latest selection of Rhodia Goalbook journals encompasses numerous striking metallic colours that are aligned to in vogue colour trends. Incorporated within the Italian leatherette covers, the new colours include a stylish gold, bronze, copper and titanium, as well as a classic white, reflecting a luxurious sophistication.

Shortlisted within the Notebook or Journal of the Year category, these additions feature an orange elastic closure, expanding inner pocket, a pen loop and two ribbon bookmarks.

Social Stationery Product of the Year

With the uptake in people having the desire to send personalised communications to friends and loved ones gathering momentum, the newly released selection of Eucalyptus correspondence boxes from Clairefontine’s Pollen brand offers a natural choice for those seeking a touch of luxury. Featuring an attractive floral motif that depicts the calming colours of eucalyptus foliage, they were showcased for the Social Stationery Product of the Year award.

Following the award celebrations, Lawrence Savage, UK Marketing Manager for the group, said: “We are delighted to have had so many nominations, and to be announced as winners against some hotly contested categories is fabulous! The group’s focus on innovative product development has enabled us to continue launching sustainable items that transcend the requirements of the consumer.”

He added: “One of the benefits of having our own paper mills is that it enables us to offer fast lead-times compared to many Far Eastern based suppliers, as well as ensuring high quality standards across our portfolio of over 25,000 products. With a trade only policy, not only are we able to maintain low minimum orders to our customers, but an extensive range of in-store POS and online marketing collateral allows us to offer a comprehensive support package, which also includes assistance with organising special occasions and demonstration events.”

Looking ahead

With an eye on the second half of 2023, Rhodia is further expanding its range with the introduction of the stunning Orange Botanique collection, which features a mix of notebooks and desktop accessories with contemporary floral and fabric textured designs.

In addition, in the run-up to Christmas, Clairefontaine will be releasing a selection of new paper crafting and educational toys and puzzle products across its popular Décopatch and Avenue Mandarine brands.