Lewes-based Fair Trade gift company Paper High has been shortlisted for the Partner of the Year Award at the Not On The High Street Small Brand Awards 2026, making it one of the top three businesses recognised in the category.
The awards formed part of Not On The High Street’s 20th anniversary celebrations, recognising outstanding independent businesses from across the UK. Just 33 brands from more than 5,000 businesses selling on the platform were nominated across the 10 categories.
Founded in 2002, Paper High works closely with thousands of artisans across Sri Lanka, Nepal and India to bring you unique handcrafted gifts. Based in Lewes, they’re passionate about preserving traditional skills, supporting fair wages and helping artisan communities thrive through ethical, long-term partnerships.
(Pictured above, from left to right: Paul Schuster, Claire Gibson, Mark Woolley, and Sara Davies MBE)
Paper High has been a partner of Not On The High Street for the past 18 years, building a strong relationship with the marketplace as it has grown. Since the appointment of Pascal Schuster as CEO in January 2026, Paper High has further strengthened its relationship with the team at Not On The High Street. Through regular collaboration with senior leadership and the wider team, Paper High has contributed to discussions shaping the future direction of the platform while actively supporting the broader community of independent businesses and makers.Â
Directors Mark and Claire travelled to Birmingham to attend the awards alongside other incredible independent brands. The event was attended by Pascal Schuster and Non-Executive Director and Brand Ambassador Sara Davies MBE, star of BBC’s Dragons’ Den.
Speaking after the event, Mark and Claire said:
“Being shortlisted for Partner of the Year is a real honour, especially after 18 years with Not On The High Street. We’ve built fantastic relationships with the team over the years and have really enjoyed working more closely with Pascal, Davesh Thakkar (Vice President of Commercial) and the team recently.
The day was a wonderful celebration of small businesses and the incredible people behind them. It was inspiring to meet so many talented makers and entrepreneurs who continue to champion quality craftsmanship and handmade products. We’re incredibly proud to have represented Lewes and Paper High at such a special event.”
The shortlist recognition highlights Paper High’s commitment to ethical trade, artisan craftsmanship and its long-standing partnership with one of the UK’s leading marketplaces for independent businesses. Judges particularly praised the company’s garden collection and impressive customer service. The recognition also demonstrates the value of choosing independent brands that offer unique, high-quality products as an alternative to mass-produced goods.
Paper High hopes the recognition will inspire people across Lewes and Sussex to continue supporting local and independent businesses whenever they can. Behind every small business is a team of passionate people who care deeply about what they do, and every purchase makes a genuine difference.
Readers can find out more about Paper High and shop its range of ethically sourced, handmade products at:
