Founder of the London Stationery Show, National Stationery Week and a Liveryman of The Stationers’ Company, Chris Leonard-Morgan shares his story of how he found his way into the wonderful world of stationery.
How did you get involved in the stationery industry?
I found my way into the stationery market fortuitously nearly 20 years ago after selling my previous exhibition business, and was wondering what to do next. A friend suggested there might be an opportunity for an office products show, but I quickly decided that stationery was the way to go.
What is the best part of being involved?
The energetic and inspiring people, and the wonderfully uplifting products.
What is your favourite industry memory?
Seeing National Stationery Week branded black taxis driving round London for the first time during the London Stationery Show in 2013 with the message that ‘Writing matters’.
What does 2024 hold for you?
I am loving being unexpectedly involved in the London Stationery Show again following its acquisition by Max Publishing and helping raise awareness of the amazing Stationers’ Company, and am looking forward to spending more time working on a book; about stationery, naturally.
Three interesting facts about me…
- I played tennis at Wimbledon in the Public School Championships with soon to be Formula 1 World Champion James Hunt
- I spent five years in the wine trade after leaving school, during which I spent most of the 1967 Le Mans 24 hour race in the Moet et Chandon champagne pavilion.
- I once spoke about the UK DIY market to 500 delegates in Chicago, believing there would only be 50. My family thought this was hilarious, given my aversion to tackling such tasks around the house!
Favourite stationery products…
I couldn’t survive without highlighters and Post-it notes, and wouldn’t be without my Parker 51, Kaweco pens and Smythson notebook.
