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Discusses the options for catalog companies when sourcing paper for their catalogs. Opinion of paper industry professionals on buying paper directly from a paper mill; Differences among small, midsize and large catalogers; Factors that catalogers should consider in selecting a paper source; List of paper mills, paper brokers and printers in the U.S. INSETS: PAPER RESOURCE GUIDE;PAPER GLOSSARY;Selling paper online.

The article discusses the challenges facing print catalogers trying to purchase paper in the U.S. in 2008. Mill shutdowns continue to affect catalog paper supply. According to Miles Kimball marketing manager Ryan Hennig, the company had to change its paper stock when its text paper was discontinued in February. Ross-Simons jewelry and decor merchant tries to stay ahead of potential paper supply problems by using a dual vendor strategy.

The article offers a look at the steady paper prices in the U.S. in 2006. For commonly used catalog papers, demand usually rises during the fourth quarter while supply usually declines. But as more consumer catalogers delay their mailings until later in the holiday season, the likelihood of end-of-year paper price hikes may increase. It was noted that most mills are currently running paper for specific needs and not for increasing inventory at the mill or printer levels.

The article reports on trends and development in the paper industry that concern the catalog business in 2006. Prices of paper are reported. Trends in the demand and supply of paper are noted. Factors that affected paper prices are reported.