MEMORANDUM
To: Valued Customers
From: Randy Durbin, President
GBP Direct
Date: July 17, 2026
Subject: Understanding the Recent Increase in Copy Paper Prices
Over the past several months, many of our customers have asked why the cost of copy paper has increased so dramatically. We believe it is important to provide a clear explanation of what is happening throughout the paper industry and why these price increases are affecting virtually every supplier.
The increase in copy paper prices is not the result of a shortage of trees or an unexpected surge in demand. Instead, it is being driven by several industry-wide factors that have significantly reduced supply while increasing manufacturing costs.
The primary reasons include:
- Fewer paper mills producing copy paper. Over the past several years, many paper manufacturers have permanently closed mills or converted their production facilities to manufacture packaging materials and corrugated products, which have become more profitable than office paper. As a result, there are fewer mills producing copy paper today than in previous years.
- Higher manufacturing costs. Paper production requires significant amounts of energy, labor, chemicals, and transportation. Increases in these operating costs have made it substantially more expensive to manufacture paper.
- Reduced imports and trade challenges. Tariffs and ongoing trade uncertainties have reduced the amount of imported copy paper entering the United States. This has increased reliance on domestic manufacturers and placed additional pressure on available supply.
- Transportation and freight expenses. Although shipping costs have improved from pandemic highs, freight and logistics expenses remain well above historical averages, contributing to higher delivered costs.
These factors have created an industry where supply is tighter, manufacturing costs are higher, and paper manufacturers have less incentive to compete aggressively on price because there are simply fewer producers serving the market.
At GBP Direct, we continue to work diligently to minimize the impact of these increases. Through our strong relationships with leading manufacturers, our buying power, and careful inventory management, we strive to secure the best possible pricing while maintaining the high level of service our customers have come to expect.
We remain committed to providing:
- Competitive pricing
- Reliable product availability
- Local inventory and fast delivery
- Outstanding customer service from a Louisiana-owned and operated company
We sincerely appreciate your continued trust and loyalty. Thank you for allowing GBP Direct to be your partner for office products, furniture, workplace solutions, print services, and promotional products.
Should you have any questions regarding current paper pricing or would like assistance identifying the best value for your organization, please don’t hesitate to contact your GBP Direct sales representative.
Thank you for your continued business and support.
Randy Durbin
President
GBP Direct
