Diversity Supplier Highlight: South Coast Paper

Throughout all levels of the institution, LSU is committed to utilizing diverse suppliers in its purchase, use and exchange of goods. LSU is pleased to work with South Coast Paper, a company that goes above and beyond in satisfying the university’s needs through supplying Destiny paper.

About South Coast Paper

Based in Colombia, South Carolina, South Coast Paper defines itself as a paper and packaging management company that offers high quality, personalized solutions for its customers. Serving clients worldwide, South Coast Paper continues to use its leverage and buying power to reduce costs and enhance clients’ goals. The company is also committed to sustainable forestry in terms of its sourcing. Their commitment to high standards is evidenced by maintaining national certifications that are verified as top accreditations in the industry. As with other minority owned businesses the LSU Athletics has engaged with, South Coast Paper is an active member of both the Southern Region Minority Supplier Developmental Council (SRMSDC) and the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC).

Shelly Mullenix, Senior Associate Athletic Director: Health & Wellness has devoted some of her volunteer work efforts engaging in LSU Athletics’ Diversity Supplier Council and met with the president of South Coast Paper, Kenny Loyd. “It was clear from the beginning of the meeting that he understood the fast paced world of Athletics. Utilizing South Coast Paper as our primary source of paper was a easy way for us to diversify our spending with minority owned companies…everyone needs paper!”

About Destiny Paper

Destiny paper is best used for high volume printing and copying, while maintaining a 99.9% jam-free rate in printers, copiers and fax machines. This success rate is in part due to the paper’s smooth surface, precise edges and acid-free composition. The brand also has a program called the Destiny Program, which partners with Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUBs), and with Office Depot as a vendor.

Both LSU’s academic and athletic programs take advantage of South Coast Paper’s service. As of June 2021, the majority of the various operations departments within LSU order strictly from South Coast Paper, citing complete engagement in diversity supplier efforts. Assistant AD and Chief Financial Officer Matthew LaBorde mentioned, ““Our decision to use Destin Paper initiated from an email solicitation asking us to learn about a company. A different paper company was honestly not something we had thought much about. However, it provided us a great opportunity to address our LSU Athletic Department’s Diversity Supplier initiatives.” LaBorde went on to point out the willingness of other department units within Athletics, “ to try something new so that Destiny Paper could prove their quality and service.” It is great to see the simple purchase of paper become an avenue to expand our supplier diversity!

Visit www.southcoastpaper.com for more information.