Hit the street and ask anyone to tell you the name of a famous stationery retailer in the UK and I would put a fair bet on the first suggestion that they would make. Indeed Ryman's 115 years history and proven track record for quality, value and reliability has consistently built the company into the finest commercial stationery retailer of the present days. Let's take a step back in time to discover exactly why Ryman has been so successful in climbing the ladder to place itself on the top podium.

   It was all the way back in 1893 that Henry J Ryman cut the ribbon and unlocked the doors to his first store located on Great Portland Street in London. With innovative new products and an audience keen to acquire items with a new edge and a bit of flare, the store generated 50 pounds worth of revenue within its first week of operation which was quite an achievement at that time. The success story continued throughout the early 1900's, as Henry Ryman kept his focus on the important aspects of the business - its staff, its customers and products quality. Another factor that lead to the store's success was that Mr. Ryman genuinely believed in his products and customers took solace in his confidence. Amazingly, even today, the first store still exists in the very same place as it was originally launched.

   Throughout the next few years until 1970, the company was owned and operated by the Ryman family itself. Between 1970 and 1995, the company passed through a number of hands, until it was finally acquired by Chancerealm Ltd. Many of you will know the major shareholder of this company from the hit BBC TV series Dragon's Den - his name is Theo Paphitis. The company name was later changed to Ryman Group Ltd.

   In the year 2001, the company began acquiring competitors, including 86 stores worth of the Partners chain and then in 2007 a further 61 Stationery Box stores. In 2008 these stores were all rebranded to reflect the new ownership and are now fully identifiable with Ryman brand. The growth of Ryman continues today with more acquisition propositions on the horizon. Whilst the company expands, one thing stay the same. That is the commitment that Henry Ryman put into his staff and customers right from the very beginning. By continously improving technology, the working environment and the interactions between it and itsshoppers, Ryman has built a trusting relationship with the people by proving that it can change with the times keeping its long held values.

   One thing it's for sure. There will be plenty more to see from Ryman in the future. Keep an eye out in the media for more updates on the company's future as well as on our website and this new blog. We will continue to keep you on the loop on inside developments, product launches and new innovations that we bring on the market. We hope you return again soon and become part of our large Ryman family where everyone works hard to achieve a dream - Henry Ryman's dream.