Cards and Stationery

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The cards and stationery sector exhibits moderately prompt payment behaviour, with an average payment time of 34.14 days. This suggests that, on average, companies in this sector take slightly longer than the standard 30-day payment term to settle invoices. A little over half of invoices (54.57%) are paid within the 30-day window. However, the late payment rate of 24.14% is a notable concern, indicating that approximately one in four invoices are paid beyond agreed-upon terms, potentially impacting supplier cash flow. This places them in a middling position when compared to other UK sectors, where average payment times can range from significantly shorter (e.g., some retail segments) to considerably longer (e.g., certain construction sub-sectors).

The data reveals a pattern where a significant proportion of invoices are paid within the expected timeframe, but a substantial minority experience delays. This could be due to various factors, including internal processing inefficiencies within customer organisations, disputes over invoices, or simply a deliberate strategy of extending payment terms. For suppliers operating in this sector, it is crucial to recognise that while a majority of payments arrive within 30 days, the risk of late payment is real and should be factored into financial planning. Suppliers should therefore diligently track payment dates and establish clear communication channels to address any payment delays promptly.

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