A History of Anchor Paper Company
To know where you’re going, must know where you’ve been. Anchor Paper Company has had some notable moments through our near 100-year history. These moments, along with our fantastic team of employee owners, have shaped our company while defining and reflecting our industry.
May 15, 1923 The Birth of Anchor Paper Co.
Anchor Paper Co. was formed through the collective investments of J. Mark Dadglish, the first President of the company, David Sym, who served as the company's Secretary & Treasurer, George Gibson, general sales manager of Mosinee Paper, and Harry Matthewson, President of Paper Supply.
The company's foundation was laid throu the buyout of the Industrial wrapping paper division of Leslie-Donahower Paper Co. The purchase agreement gave Anchor Paper Co. the rights to sell Industrial papers and packaging supplies to include: tape, tissue, paper bags, wrapping paper, and similar products. As Anchor Paper Co. grew in size, reputation and geographical reach, so did our product distribution offering to include printing paper grades, design papers, and packaging machines, to name a few.
We are proud of our past, and since our inception in 1923, we have grown to serve new markets and to represent a vast number of products and services. Our experience has led to growth and innovation for our customers and our suppliers.
1928
J. Mark Daglish sold his interest to Howard Allan (“Dick”) Hartinger who succeeded him as President. Dave Syme continued to operate as Secretary & Treasurer, devoting most of his time to selling.
1932
The company expanded into a specialty paper segment: seed germination paper testing, one of many innovations that contributed to the company's success over the years.
1938
Anchor Paper Co. became franchised to sell printing paper grades.
1945
For efficient distribution to all parts of the Twin Cities, Anchor Paper Co. strategically moved its Headquarters to their current location in downtown St. Paul.
1978
Anchor Paper Co. was franchised to sell large packaging machines. Additionally, the third generation of Hartingers started to work in the business. Both Linda and Elizabeth Hartinger began their careers in sales support positions, with the goal of learning about all aspects of the industry.
1980
Ham Hartinger became CEO and 2nd generation owner
1982
Anchor Paper Co. expanded operations into Hudson, Wisconsin by opening Packaging Converters to ehance the productivity and capabilities of the company’s industrial division.
1990
Anchor Paper Express opened in Plymouth, Minnesota marking the company's first retail store.
2001
Linda Hartinger took over as President & CEO, representing the 3rd generation of family ownership.
2013
Anchor Paper Co. acquired ViXX Converting in Hudson, WI, augmenting the capabilities of the company’s Fine Paper division.
2014
Brooke Lee took over as CEO of Anchor Paper Company, representing the 4th generation of family ownership.
2015
Anchor Paper Co. acquired Rue Plastics, enhancing distribution of void fill packaging solutions.
2019
To expand converting capabilities and offer customizable solutions to their customers, Anchor Paper Co. opened a new converting facility in River Falls, WI.
