French Paper - Trusted Specialty Paper Manufacturer Since 1871

Our Story

In 1871, Louis French built a paper mill on the banks of the St. Joseph River in Niles, Michigan. That decision marked the beginning of what would become one of America's most respected specialty paper manufacturers.

For over 150 years and six generations, the French family has maintained our commitment to quality craftsmanship, innovation, and environmental stewardship. While the paper industry has changed dramatically, we have remained true to our founding principles.

Today, French Paper continues to operate from our original location, powered by the same river that Louis French harnessed in 1871. We combine time-tested papermaking traditions with modern sustainable practices to create premium specialty papers that inspire creativity and support our customers' success.

Our Heritage

Key milestones in our 150+ year journey

1871

The Beginning

Louis French establishes French Paper Company on the St. Joseph River in Niles, Michigan, producing wrapping paper and paper bags.

1922

Hydroelectric Power

Installation of our hydroelectric plant, making French Paper one of the first mills to generate its own clean, renewable energy.

1965

Specialty Paper Focus

Strategic pivot to specialty papers, launching our first colored paper collections that would become industry favorites.

1992

Pop-Tone Launch

Introduction of the iconic Pop-Tone collection, featuring 20 vibrant colors that revolutionized creative printing and packaging.

2005

FSC Certification

Achievement of Forest Stewardship Council certification, formalizing our commitment to responsible sourcing.

2018

100% Renewable Energy

All manufacturing operations now powered entirely by renewable hydroelectric energy, achieving Green-e certification.

2024

Sixth Generation Leadership

The sixth generation of the French family takes leadership, continuing the tradition of innovation and environmental stewardship.

150+

Years in Business

6

Generations of Family

100+

Paper Varieties

85

Dedicated Employees

Our Core Values

The principles that guide everything we do

Quality

We never compromise on quality. Every sheet of paper that leaves our mill meets the highest standards of excellence.

Family

As a family business, we treat our employees, customers, and community as extended family, building lasting relationships.

Sustainability

Environmental stewardship is in our DNA. We have operated sustainably since before sustainability was a buzzword.

Innovation

We continuously innovate to create new papers that inspire creativity and meet evolving market needs.

Manufacturing Excellence

Our facility in Niles, Michigan combines heritage craftsmanship with modern manufacturing technology. While we honor traditional papermaking techniques, we continuously invest in equipment and processes that improve quality and efficiency.

Our Capabilities:

Paper weights from 60 lb text to 130 lb cover
Custom color matching and formulation
Specialty textures and finishes
Small batch production flexibility
Rapid prototyping and sampling

Every batch of paper undergoes rigorous quality testing to ensure consistency in color, weight, caliper, and print performance. Our quality team maintains the standards that have made French Paper a trusted name in the industry.

Certifications & Recognition

Third-party verification of our commitment to quality and sustainability

FSC Certified

ISO 14001

Green-e Energy

Made in USA

Supplier Diversity