End of an era for iconic stationery firm.

 

William (Will) Frederick Penfold AM (pictured inset), a prominent businessman and community leader who served as the longtime chairman of the iconic Sydney printing and stationery firm WC Penfold has passed away at the age of 90. 

 

His death last month (11 March), marks the end of a long chapter in the Australian stationery industry. 

 

WC Penfold was a historic stationery, printing, and office supplies company established in 1886 by William Clark Penfold in Sydney. 

 

Known for its retail stores and commercial printing, it was a prominent brand for over a century before facing financial difficulties, entering administration in 2004, and later ceasing operations. 

 

In 1990, the company had sales in excess of $65 million and operated more than 40 stores.

 

The brand name and retail parts of the company were later linked to several office products dealers, including United Office Choice (Penfold by Choice) in Adelaide, Hillary Lee in Sydney, and printing group Kwik.

 

The company was famous for its horse-and-cart deliveries, which operated in Sydney between 1947 and 2005.

 

Will’s son Andrew is well-known to the stationery and office products industry through his market research business.