James Cropper plc is a UK-based advanced materials and paper group with a proud heritage of innovation and responsible manufacturing. For over 25 years, our Advanced Materials division has supplied highly specialised nonwoven materials into the global defence and aerospace sectors, including applications that support the UK’s national security and allied defence programmes.
We are aware of recent public interest regarding our historical and current involvement in supply chains for military aircraft, specifically in relation to Israel. We wish to clarify the following:
- James Cropper does not manufacture or supply weapons, weapon systems, or aircraft parts. Our contribution is limited to advanced nonwoven materials, which are used in a wide range of industrial and aerospace applications. These materials are not classified as “parts” and are not specific to any one aircraft variant.
- We operate in full compliance with all applicable UK export control laws and international regulations, including the United States International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).
- James Cropper supports UK government policy on defence procurement and industrial capability, including recent restrictions on export licences for those supplying the Israeli military and we can confirm that no materials are being supplied from James Cropper in violation of these or other regulations. The UK remains a committed partner to existing programmes, and our continued participation helps sustain high-value manufacturing jobs in Cumbria and across the UK.
- We recognise the complexity and sensitivity of global conflicts. As a responsible employer and corporate citizen, we are committed to legal compliance and ethical business practices. We acknowledge the concerns that have been raised in relation to defence activities and welcome constructive dialogue on these matters. Specifically, we recognise concerns over high-profile conflict zones, and we stand with those seeking an end to this and other global conflicts, and to preventing further such conflict. However, for the avoidance of any doubt, James Cropper has no ability to influence this through the supply, or cessation of supply, of any products.
We remain focused on delivering world-class materials science and supporting our customers across aerospace, defence, energy transition, and other critical sectors.
David Stirling
Chief Executive Officer
01 September 2025