NPTA, the National Paper Trade Association, traces its roots back to a historic dinner at Delmonico’s in New York City in December 1903. A group of 17 paper merchants from across the nation gathered, including the Cincinnati Cordage & Paper Co., Bradner Smith, and W.F. McQuillen, Storrs & Bement Co. This meeting laid the foundation for what would become a cornerstone of the paper distribution industry.
Orlando A. Miller of The Central Ohio Paper Co. became the first president, leading the inaugural annual meeting at the Waldorf-Astoria in New York on February 9, 1904. In the ensuing decade, NPTA grew rapidly, incorporating existing regional associations and mirroring the ascendance of paper manufacturing and merchant ventures in the United States. Today, NPTA boasts 74 esteemed member firms.
Throughout its history, NPTA has shown resilience and adaptability. From the trials of World War I, where stalwarts like George Olmsted, Sr., and William C. Ridgway navigated the complexities of government control, to the tumult of World War II, where figures like Stan Styles served as beacons of industry expertise and advocacy, NPTA has stood at the forefront of progress.
The post-war era witnessed the rise of influential figures and the consolidation of small, family-held businesses into formidable regional and national entities. Yet, amidst the flux, NPTA remained steadfast, guided by a commitment to industry excellence and leadership.