Global stationery brand Collins Debden is celebrating its 200th anniversary this year with a greater emphasis on design and applications that meet the needs of consumers in the digital age.

 

A leader in the printed diaries, planners and organisers space, Collins Debden has had a “challenging” time in recent years combatting the influx of electronic devices, particularly smart phones, that have captured the attention of both business and personal users.

 

Exploring new and creative ways to meeting consumer needs is now a priority for Connie Chan (pictured), Collins Debden’s global CEO, based in Singapore.

 

Speaking from Singapore, Chan told Office Products News that after some “challenging times” in the retail sector, the company was focussed on “refreshing the brand after 200 years” and would be working with its retail partners to create more impactful visual merchandising across the board.

 

“There’s a been a blurring of the lines between business and personal use with diaries but the trend is moving towards more lifestyle designs that reflect the popularity of journaling and notetaking,” she said.

 

“Mobile phones have taken care of the appointments function but there has been a trend in markets like Australia where the use of printed diaries has become a lifestyle thing,” she added.

 

Founded in 1819 by Scotsman William Collins, the Collins stationery company has grown into a global brand with Collins Debden listed on the Singapore Stock Exchange.

 

Chan, who is also the company’s “executive chairlady”, joined the company four years ago having previously worked for GE.