
PAPER specialist James Cropper is celebrating after being shortlisted in six categories at the Women in Packaging Excellence Awards.
Five of the finalists were in categories recognising individual excellence, while one highlights successful teams and businesses.

In addition to James Cropper being named as a finalist for the Packaging Services or Team Excellence Award, the company saw five women receive recognition in the following categories:
- Zoe Lovell, marketing & key account coordinator – Packaging Marketing & Brand Impact Award
- Jordan Scott, head of marketing – Packaging Marketing & Brand Impact Award
- Charlotte Knowles, customer experience & planning lead – Packaging Operations Excellence – Manufacturers, Suppliers & Technology Specialists
- Julia Lawrence, regional head of sales – Sales & Business Development Leader – Manufacturers, Converters & Producers
- Stephanie Walker, head of technical – Woman of the Year – Recycling & Circular Innovation
Paul Barber, MD, paper & packaging at James Cropper, said, “We are proud to be part of a team that is so committed to providing women with the opportunity to succeed. All of the finalists can be especially proud of themselves for all they bring to James Cropper day in, day out – overcoming challenges, inspiring others, and truly leading by example in our industry.

“It’s particularly pleasing to see women from across the business receiving well-deserved recognition. From sales to marketing to technical and production-focused roles, we’re incredibly fortunate to have incredible women working in every area of our business. There is always more we can do to break glass ceilings for female talent, but it’s important to take a moment and celebrate the trailblazers of today so that others can follow in the future.”

The Women in Packaging Excellence Awards 2026 will shine a spotlight on women from the entire packaging value chain. The winners will be revealed at a ceremony at the Hilton Bankside, London, on 18 June.














