Our Story so far
Explore our rich history and where it all began for John Sands.
Take a look at the different opportunities to join our team.
We are John Sands
Here at John Sands we pride ourselves on offering innovative products designed to inspire, make you smile and help you better connect with the people that matter most. People are the most important part of our business, and we aim to provide positive and memorable experiences for everyone now and into the future.
As part of the American Greetings family, and together with UK Greetings we form the largest privately listed greeting card and social expression group in the world offering an extensive product line including greeting cards, gift wrapping, dressings and partyware.
John Sands offers the very best product sourced globally from around the world and available nationally at leading retailers and newsagents across Australia and New Zealand.
Sustainability
Underpinned by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, we are committed to taking care of our planet and the people who live on it. Fostering a culture to lead, learn and innovate, we are proud to partner with the World Land Trust, ensuring that the paper used for every single greeting card is carbon balanced and helps protect the world’s most biologically significant and threatened habitats.
The History of John Sands
Founded in Sydney in 1837 by a bold 19-year-old, John Sands changed how Australians celebrate. From introducing the nation’s first Christmas cards in 1881 to creating maps for WWII, we’ve always been part of life’s big moments. After 141 years of family ownership, we joined American Greetings in 1996—and today, we’re still helping people connect, celebrate, and share joy.
-
1837 Founding Vision
John Sands, age 19, founded his publishing and stationery business in Sydney, Australia
-
1881 Card Innovation
Introduced Australia’s first locally printed Christmas and New Year’s greeting cards. “Happy New Year” – M. Haselden, Lithgow, 1881.
-
1929 Product Expansion
In 1929 John Sands diversified as a company and entered the indoor games market. The very first board game produced was “Tripoley”.
-
1940 Wartime Support
John Sands produced maps and materials to support Australia’s defence efforts during World War II.
-
1978 Family Exit
In 1978 the Sands family finally relinquished control of the business to Valentine Holdings after 141 years of management. The company then became known as Valentine Sands.
-
1996 Global Merger
In 1996 John Sands became a fully owned subsidiary of American Greetings after they acquired the company in a successful takeover.
-
2017 Milestone Celebration
Celebrated 180 years of helping people connect through cards and special occasion products.
