ABOUT US
Our story so far
Carte Blanche is a wholesale distributor specialising in European stationery, fine writing and gift packaging brands.
We supply a portfolio of iconic brands to national retailers, independent bookstores, art shops, newsagencies, and lifestyle boutiques across Australia and New Zealand.
Carte Blanche launched on 1 July 2025, built on a foundation of deep industry experience and a commitment to exceptional wholesale service.
Our Expertise
Carte Blanche was founded by Grant Richardson, who brings over a decade of experience in premium stationery and giftware distribution.
From 2017 to 2021, Grant served as Head of Wholesale at Telegram Co., overseeing national wholesale operations and working closely with major retailers, independent stores, and international brand partners. Following this, he consulted to several brands and smaller wholesalers, supporting them with range development, channel strategy, sales growth and operational improvement.
This combination of senior leadership and multi-brand consulting experience underpins Carte Blanche’s rigorous, reliable, and commercially focused approach to wholesale distribution.
Grant’s expertise includes:
- Category management for notebooks, journals, writing instruments and giftware
- Merchandising and range curation tailored to retail environments
- Wholesale operations, 3PL logistics, EDI and inventory planning
- Supplier management and global brand onboarding
- B2B and B2C e-commerce, data management and digital ordering systems
What's in a name?
After years of working for other people, I reached a point where I wanted the freedom to do things my way and to build something of my own.
That’s why the name Carte Blanche resonated immediately. In French it means 'the complete freedom to do what one wants', and it’s also used to describe a blank page — a fresh start.
For me, Carte Blanche represents a conscious decision to build the kind of wholesale partner I know retailers love working with — one that keeps things clear, reliable and genuinely supportive.
A partner with:
- systems that make sense — not cause confusion
- dispatch that’s fast and accurate — not delayed
- merchandising and marketing support that’s proactive — not “set and forget”
- and a commitment to making business easier, not harder
The name isn’t just symbolic of my personal fresh start — it shapes how we operate every day.
When retailers work with Carte Blanche, I want them to feel the same freedom I felt when I started this business: confidence, clarity, and support to grow.
And if you’re ever unsure, it’s pronounced “cart blonsh” — but we’re not precious. Some friends and family have even started calling the business “Carty B” (a playful nod to the famous Cardi B). It stuck because it captures who we are: professional and polished, but never dull; bold enough to stand out, and always honest.
I’m genuinely delighted you’ve found us.
My team and I look forward to supporting you and your business.
Grant
Our Mission
To bring the very best stationery, fine writing and gift packaging brands to the Australian and New Zealand markets, while delivering a wholesale experience built on trust, reliability, exceptional service and long term partnerships.
We believe in timeless products, thoughtful design, and distribution that retailers can depend on.
Our Values
Integrity
Doing the right thing by our customers, our suppliers and our team
Collaboration
Forging and maintaining long-term partnerships with our brands, retailers and team
Excellence
Giving our best in everything we do and always providing our customers with the best experience
Quality
Providing retailers and consumers with high quality stationery, fine writing and gift brands
Let's Work Together
Whether you’re a retailer looking to elevate your stationery offering or a global brand seeking a trusted distribution partner in Australia & New Zealand, Carte Blanche is here to support your growth.
We invite you to discover our range, explore our brands, and experience a modern, reliable approach to premium wholesale distribution.