Ariadne Perraki, leading Perrakis Papers since 1999, has guided the company to new heights through strategic partnerships with leading global paper suppliers. Her commitment to sourcing sophisticated papers that embody culture, inspire passion and express ideas has greatly enriched Perrakis Papers’ product offerings. We sat down with her to discuss the company’s success and its impact on the paper industry.
Perrakis Papers has a history spanning over one and a half centuries. Can you share what it means to be a part of such a long-standing legacy?
One family, one material – 150 years of joys and sorrows. It’s not just about the surface; it’s about a distinctive blend of heritage and tradition that is evident in small human gestures. I carry forward some pearls of wisdom from my late father: ‘Generosity of spirit’ is one, and ‘Don’t work with assholes’ is the other. Generosity involves sharing and caring, embodying grace and nobility daily. As my father said, “When you give, you always receive, one way or another.” The second piece of advice was to surround yourself with trustworthy people because, without trust, you cannot build any meaningful relationship. He always said it isn’t personal, it’s business—the quality of your life depends on the quality of your relationships.
We focus on projects that have meaning and adhere to the principles of Ethos, Logos, and Pathos, as Aristotle described. Ethos is about being true and ethical to the core, Logos involves logical thinking and analysis, and Pathos is about inspiring others with passion. We apply these principles to our business and life. We even displayed this ethos at the Graphica 2023 commercial exhibition, and our corporate identity, designed by DpS Athens, won an award at the EBGE Awards 2024.
In a digital age, what do you believe is the continuing power and relevance of paper and print?
Vint Cerf, Google’s Vice President and often called the father of the internet, once said something surprising: “If you have photos you want to keep, print them!” It’s intriguing advice coming from a leading figure in technology. In ancient times, people used clay and papyrus for writing. For instance, under a 13th-century Byzantine prayer book, a palimpsest revealed Archimedes’ ‘Theory of Infinity’ from the 3rd century BC, demonstrating the enduring value of physical records.
Life is both digital and analog. While our generation benefits from the immediacy of digital connections, there’s always a risk of losing digital files. Putting something on paper goes beyond passing trends. It embodies our desire for permanence. At Perrakis Papers, we value timelessness and despise obsolescence. For us, paper is a universal memory material.
Additionally, our environments often lack sensory experiences and real human connections. Without these, we risk feeling disposable and commodified. An information detox can help combat social and cultural alienation. The connection of hand, head, and heart that paper facilitates has lasting and soothing value. Albert Camus said that paper expresses a nostalgia for innocence and appeals to the essence of being.
Sustainability is a significant concern today. How do you incorporate eco-friendly practices into your operations and product offerings?
Discussions about climate change and environmental impacts are crucial today. At Perrakis Papers, we’ve always acted ethically, considering both people and the planet, long before sustainability became a trend. Our approach is straightforward and human-centric. We only purchase from trusted paper mills with international certifications.
As an FSC-certified company, we contribute to protecting healthy and resilient forests. For every tree cut to make paper, six more are planted. We’re also working towards B Corp certification, which focuses on social and environmental performance with transparency. This movement in the global economy uses business as a force for good.
We follow ecological and social criteria as a way of life, not just as a commitment enforced by others. Greek writer Nikos Kazantzakis said, “Dignity is not to be honored by others but to deserve honor.” This philosophy goes beyond paper and packaging solutions; it’s about our basic responsibility as individuals to live responsibly for the collective whole. This worldview encompasses everything: ethics, business, processes, products, and the world we live in. It’s about how we take, what we make, and what we waste.
One of our favorite projects is giving old papers a second life through our Pre-Loved Notebooks for friends. These notebooks are made from random leftover papers in our warehouse, creating unique paper blocks in various colors and textures. They reflect the changing styles and tastes over decades, while Perrakis Papers remains steadfast and classic. Our papers, like a personal diary, carry experiences and history. By repurposing these papers, we give them a new life in your hands, allowing you to write your own story.
Paper has been a medium for cultural expression for centuries. How does Perrakis Papers contribute to cultural preservation and innovation? Can you share examples of your papers being used in notable projects?
Paper has always been a canvas for both letters and the arts, serving as fertile ground for inspiration. In an age dominated by globalization, reconnecting with our origins through the timeless quality of paper is more important than ever. Paper gracefully withstands the passage of time and embraces recycling, embodying sustainability.
Nowadays, because we print less, we are more deliberate and thoughtful when we do print. Like the old tailor’s rule—measure twice, cut once—we consider carefully before putting anything on paper. This is why the most important aspects of human activity continue to be documented on paper.
“It’s not just about paper as an object; it’s about giving material form to ideas.”
What is the enduring appeal of printed books in a digital era, and how do the tangible nature and tactile quality of paper enhance the reading experience and information processing?
The legacy of printed books transcends the digital era because paper provides a sensory experience that digital formats cannot match. The smell, texture, weight, and even sound of paper engage our senses deeply. Each aspect of paper selection—its thickness, color, weight, and texture—creates a rich, multi-sensory experience, much like how space is used in architecture.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, we initiated the Collective Footprint project by inviting our community to share their experiences. We compiled these contributions into a book, celebrating co-creation and the value of making things together, even when physically apart. This project underscores the lasting value of tangible media and the importance of preserving memories in a physical form, even in a digital age.
On a personal level, what do you enjoy most about seeing people interact with paper as a blank canvas for communication and ideas?
A blank sheet of paper represents freedom and unlimited potential. It provides a space where ideas can take shape and new territories can be explored. The simplicity of paper allows for creativity to flow freely.
“In typography, for example, the contrast of black ink on a white page makes the text come alive, turning the act of writing into a form of art.”
What has been the most rewarding experience from your work in this field?
One of the most rewarding experiences was giving a book to a blind friend, who is also a printer and a customer. He had lost his sight, and the book, Villa Cavrois, was made with special Japanese paper known for its exceptional embossing capabilities. As he ran his fingers over the textured pages, the Braille writing came alive for him. He started crying, telling me it was the most meaningful gift he had ever received. This moment highlighted the deep emotional connection that well-crafted, tactile materials can create.
If you could send a message to the next generation of the Perrakis family who might lead the company in the future, what would it be?
Whatever you do, do it with passion. Passion colors everything it touches. Keep trying, learning, reading, and listening. Never stop learning (NSL). Don’t just follow in the footsteps of your parents; embrace your chosen field with joy and enthusiasm. When you find pleasure in your work, it transcends obligation and becomes a source of deep fulfillment.
Remember the importance of balance to avoid burnout. Cultivate curiosity and stay fully present and engaged. By maintaining an open mind and a willingness to explore, you remain receptive to the wonders around you. Keep this sense of youth and wonder alive in your work and life.
