Press Release from Paper Plus
Merchandise Department Announcement - Book Category

As you are aware, two years ago the Paper Plus Group began the implementation of a comprehensive strategic plan designed to increase our focus on the Book Category. For the publishers/suppliers and the industry as a whole, we have provided significantly to increasing the profile of books in the New Zealand market.

The commitment from the Paper Plus Group Board, Management and Membership to both the category and the industry is very high. Over the past three years there has been a significant increase in promotions and marketing activity as one example and it is our intention to continue to drive this category even harder with the plans we now have in place. Our long term commitment to the Book category in the Group and to the industry as a whole in New Zealand is unquestionable. Our continued growth in market share as reported by BNZ Marketshare recently is testament to this.

As part of our strategy for future category growth, it is our intention to further strengthen our relationship with key suppliers. This is key to our future success in achieving not only continued growth today but more importantly future sustainability. With this in mind it is timely I announce the following to you.

On behalf of the Board of Directors and Management I have great pleasure in announcing the appointment of Joan Mackenzie to the position of Group Book Manager, effective from 16th February 2009.

Joan will work with Kiri Woolston and the Book team on the introduction of a number of key merchandise and promotions strategies within the Paper Plus Group along with developing plans to maximise these initiatives.

Joan brings to Paper Plus a wealth of skills, experience and industry knowledge having worked for both Collins and Macmillan Publishers in sales rep and management positions. In 1998 she moved to join the Whitcoulls Group, initially to open the Bennetts Booksellers chain, and subsequently as Book Manager for the Group. In 2006 she became Group Book Manager for the Angus and Robertson/Whitcoulls Group, with responsibility for both Australia and New Zealand.

We are extremely pleased with the appointment of Joan to the Paper Plus team and believe she will assists us greatly to substantially improve our position in the New Zealand book market

I take this opportunity to welcome Joan to the Group and know that she will add significant value to both brands within the Group and to all the suppliers who will form partnerships with us going forward.

Kind regards

John Moore
Group Merchandise & Marketing Manager