Celebrating 40 Years of Paperlink!
We’re turning 40 this year! Let’s take a look back over the past four decades of Paperlink…
2025 marks a huge milestone for Paperlink as the company is celebrating 40 years in the greeting card industry! Since its founding in 1985, this much-loved UK greeting card publisher has been dedicated to creating unique, trend-led greeting cards that bring joy to customers and retailers alike.
A Bold Beginning in Humour Cards
Founded in 1985 by Louise Tighe, Paperlink started with a small collection of art cards, however as the company grew, Louise saw a gap in the market for unique, humorous greeting cards that would really stand out on the shelves. Inspired by the alternative comedy that was just emerging in the comedy clubs at the time, Louise decided that this style of irreverent humour was just what the card industry needed.
Shortly after Paperlink’s launch, Louise teamed up with artist Jamie Charteris, whose unique cartoon designs captured the tone perfectly. Together they launched Bottom Line, a humour range that is still one of Paperlink’s best selling nearly four decades later.
From a Small Range to a National Name
What began with a distinctive range of humour cards quickly evolved. Today, Paperlink offers over 100 greeting card ranges, covering everything from funny birthday cards and contemporary designs to festive Christmas cards and special occasion collections. In 2016, the company expanded with the launch of Meraki, a sister brand that focuses on luxury greeting cards and statement designs.
A People-First Company Built on Passion
The creative spirit that drove Louise to set up Paperlink all those years ago is still just as strong today. Her daughter Frankie Ellis has been instrumental in driving the business forward and in 2020 took on more responsibility in a creative leadership role. Behind every Paperlink card is a team of passionate creatives, many of whom have been with the company for decades.
Still Creating What Customers Love
Over the years, Paperlink has earned and maintained a reputation for launching some of the industry’s best loved humour card collections. Despite huge changes in the world in the last four decades, Paperlink continues to keep its finger on the pulse. The company has stayed ahead of trends while preserving the charm and quality that have always defined its work. Iconic ranges like Bottom Line and Bestie have remained at the forefront of humour for nearly 40 years! This longevity is a testament to the brand’s deep understanding of what makes a greeting card resonate.
In 2025 alone, Paperlink and Meraki have already launched six brand-new card ranges, including an exciting debut set to be unveiled at PG Live.
Join the Celebration at PG Live 2025!
Paperlink will mark its 40th birthday with a big celebration at PG Live 2025. Visitors to stand 201 can expect exciting surprises, including an exclusive competition, goodie bags and a special display to showcase the best of Paperlink through the years.
This event is the perfect opportunity for retailers to explore Paperlink’s latest card ranges and discover how the brand continues to lead the way in UK greeting card publishing. You can book your free tickets to this year’s PG Live here.
🎉 Here's to 40 Years of Creativity - and Many More to Come 🎉
Whether you’re looking for funny birthday cards or exploring luxury greeting cards, Paperlink could be the perfect stockist for your shop.
👉 Explore our current collections and see what’s new for 2025 here.
👉 Meet the team at PG Live – stand 201 – and help us celebrate 40 years of Paperlink!