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Thermal vs Bond Paper – What Irish Businesses Need to Know

February 11, 2024

If you’re running a business in Ireland that prints receipts, you’ve likely come across both thermal paper and bond paper. Understanding the difference between the two is essential when selecting the right paper for your point-of-sale system.


Thermal paper is coated with a heat-sensitive layer that darkens when it comes into contact with the print head. It requires no ink or ribbon, making it ideal for businesses looking for a low-maintenance, cost-effective solution. It’s widely used in cafés, restaurants, retail shops, and supermarkets throughout Ireland.


Bond paper, by contrast, is a more traditional option. It requires ink or a ribbon to produce prints and is generally used in dot matrix or impact printers. It’s thicker and more durable, often preferred in industries where document longevity is crucial—such as in legal or financial institutions.


For most Irish businesses, especially in retail and hospitality sectors, thermal paper is the clear winner. It’s fast, quiet, and affordable. It also produces sharp, smudge-free prints that are easy to read.


Your choice will depend largely on the type of printer you’re using. If your printer does not use ribbons or ink, it’s a thermal printer and will require thermal rolls. Most modern POS systems across Ireland fall into this category.


Thermal paper offers faster print speeds and cleaner operation. However, it is sensitive to light and heat. Storing it in a cool, dry place will help prevent fading or discolouration—important for businesses that need to retain receipts for accounting or customer service.


Bond paper, although more durable, tends to be slower and noisier. It is more expensive in the long run due to the need for ink and ribbon replacements. Most high-volume Irish businesses are shifting towards thermal solutions for convenience and efficiency.

  • Can I use thermal paper in a bond paper printer?

    No. Thermal paper requires a thermal printer. Bond paper is for impact printers that use ink or ribbons.

  • Which paper is more cost-effective for Irish businesses?

    Thermal paper is generally more affordable. It does not require ink or ribbons and prints faster, saving time and money.

  • Is thermal paper safe for customer use?

    Yes. Our thermal paper is BPA-free and safe for daily handling, including customer receipts.

  • Which Irish industries use thermal paper the most?

    Retail, food service, hospitality, and fuel stations are among the biggest users of thermal paper in Ireland.

Why Buy from Paper2Paper


At Paper2Paper, we specialise in thermal receipt rolls that are ideal for busy businesses across Ireland. We provide BPA-free thermal paper that is fully tested for safety and quality. Whether you are in Dublin, Cork, Limerick, or anywhere else in Ireland, you can count on fast delivery and unbeatable value.


Our customers include supermarkets, cafés, restaurants, pharmacies, and more. With bulk options available and nationwide service, we make sure you never run out of the supplies you need.


With Paper2Paper, you get professional service, premium products, and a trusted partner for all your receipt paper needs.


Need thermal paper rolls for your POS in Ireland?

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March 5, 2025
Running multiple business locations—whether cafés, shops, or petrol stations—requires consistency. That includes making sure your receipt printers produce the same quality output across every site. Use the same roll size at each location Standardising on a specific thermal roll size (like 80x80mm or 57x40mm) simplifies ordering and training for staff. It also ensures each printer produces the same format receipt. Buy from one trusted supplier Using one supplier across all your locations guarantees consistent paper quality. Paper2Paper delivers nationwide, meaning all your branches—from Dublin to Donegal—get the same reliable products. Bulk ordering saves time and money Instead of ordering separately for each location, consolidate purchases into one bulk order. This reduces admin time and gives you access to lower prices. Train staff on proper handling Staff in every branch should be trained to load till rolls correctly, store paper properly, and spot issues like fading or jams. Consistency in training leads to consistency in customer experience.
February 4, 2025
Petrol stations and forecourts across Ireland rely on thermal paper for printing fuel receipts, card payments, and till transactions. With constant footfall and high-speed service, having the right receipt paper is essential. High-volume printing Petrol stations issue hundreds of receipts daily. Choose 80x80mm thermal rolls for long-lasting use and fewer roll changes. Weather-resistant printing Customers often handle fuel receipts outdoors. High-quality thermal paper resists smudging and remains legible, even in rain or humidity. Durability for payment records Receipts often serve as proof of purchase or tax documentation. Clear, long-lasting print is essential for customers and accountants alike. Compatibility with fuel station POS systems We supply rolls compatible with leading receipt printers used in Irish petrol stations—including brands like Epson, Bixolon, and Star.
December 10, 2024
Small businesses in Ireland rely on mobile card machines to take payments at markets, pop-ups, salons, and cafés. These machines require a specific type of thermal paper—usually 57x40mm rolls—that must be compact, reliable, and long-lasting. Choose the correct size Mobile card readers like SumUp, Ingenico, and iZettle use 57x40mm thermal rolls. Using the wrong size may cause paper jams or print misalignment. Crisp and clear print quality Receipts should be legible for customers and accounting records. High-quality thermal paper prints sharp details without smudging, even on the move. Durable for mobile use Mobile devices face more handling and travel. Your receipt paper should be tightly wound and neatly cut for smooth feeding and fewer jams. BPA-free for safe handling In customer-facing environments, BPA-free paper is a must. Our thermal rolls are safe, durable, and approved for use throughout Ireland.
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