Bootle's Richmond Paper Supply Company, a family-run business that has been described as "one of the biggest businesses you've never heard of," is celebrating 90 years of operations. The company, which turns over millions of pounds, supplies sustainable food packaging, catering disposables, cooking essentials, and soft drinks to around 1,000 hospitality businesses across Liverpool, Merseyside, and the wider North West. The number of end users who have used their products is in the millions.
Founded in 1936 by Francis Gavin Senior
The company was founded in 1936 by Francis Gavin Senior, known as Frank, who started the business with a horse and cart for deliveries. Today, it is led by siblings Chris, Mike, and Suzie, the third generation of the Gavin family. Frank Junior, the second generation, remains actively involved despite suffering strokes and heart problems in recent years, approaching his 80th birthday.
Chris Gavin said: "We've always been about family, relationships and looking after our customers. Frank started the business with a simple philosophy of providing quality products and service and those values still guide everything we do today."
Surviving Wars, Recessions, and Covid
Frank Junior added: "It’s a great achievement to be still trading after 90 years. I have been involved in the family business for 65 years and I’ve seen so many changes. My father started the company with a horse and cart for deliveries but grew to become one of the largest hospitality suppliers in the North of England. Over the years the company has survived wars, recessions, Covid and all sorts, but we’re still going strong."
While many consumers may not recognise the Richmond Paper Supply name, they are likely to have encountered its products. The company supplies packaging to popular takeaways, cafés, restaurants, and hospitality venues including brands like Bean and Cose Buone.
Small Team, Competitive Pricing
Mike Gavin said: "We own our warehouses and have a small team, which comes with many benefits. We have few overheads so can remain extremely competitive and people love that they get a very personal service. Customers get a great price but at the same time can speak directly with the team and don’t have to get passed to different departments."
Richmond Paper Supply has a small yet strong team of loyal staff with an average of around 25 years of service. For Chris and the wider Gavin family, the anniversary is not only an opportunity to celebrate the past but also to look ahead. He added: "Hospitality businesses are evolving quickly, and sustainability is more important than ever. We’re continuing to invest in innovative products and build strong relationships with our customers so that Richmond Paper Supply remains a trusted partner for generations to come."
