Since 1950, one pen has defined what "reliable" means in stationery: the BIC Cristal. With over 100 billion sold worldwide, it remains the best-selling ballpoint pen in history, and that same commitment to dependable, no-fuss writing tools runs through every product in the BIC range.
BIC Pens and Markers are a staple across offices, schools, retail counters and homes throughout the UK, prized for consistent ink flow, durable construction and genuinely affordable pricing. The collection covers BIC Stationery essentials, including ballpoint pens and permanent markers, giving businesses and households a dependable everyday writing solution.
Browse the full Essentials range for everything else available alongside BIC.
At a glance:
- BIC Cristal has been in continuous production since 1950
- Over 100 billion sold worldwide, the best-selling ballpoint pen in history
- Collection covers ballpoint pens and permanent markers
- Permanent markers available in bullet tip and fine point formats
- Marker packs available in black, blue, green and red
- A staple across UK offices, schools, retail counters and homes
Why Choose BIC BIC Pens And Markers
A Genuine Stationery Icon
The BIC Cristal ballpoint pen has been in continuous production since 1950 and remains the best-selling pen of all time. That level of trust doesn't happen by accident; it comes from decades of consistent, dependable performance.
Reliable Ink Flow Every Time
BIC Pens are engineered for smooth, consistent writing from the first use to the last drop of ink, reducing the frustration of skipping or drying out that cheaper alternatives are often prone to.
Genuinely Durable Markers
BIC Markers, including the popular permanent marker range, are built to write cleanly on multiple surfaces with long-lasting, fade-resistant ink, a dependable choice for labelling, marking and general office use.
Affordable Without Compromising Quality
BIC has built its reputation on offering genuinely reliable writing tools at accessible price points, making it a natural choice for bulk buying across schools, offices and retail environments.
Trusted in Education, Retail and Office Settings
From classrooms to till counters to corporate offices, BIC Pens and Markers are a familiar, dependable presence, consistent enough that most people reach for BIC without a second thought.
A Full Stationery Ecosystem
Beyond pens and markers, BIC Stationery covers a wide range of everyday writing tools, giving buyers the option to stock a complete, trusted range from a single brand.
Explore The BIC Range
BIC Cristal Ballpoint Pens
The original and most iconic product in the BIC range, a simple, dependable ballpoint pen with smooth medium-point ink flow. A genuine stationery classic suited to everyday writing in offices, schools, and homes. Its hexagonal barrel and see-through design have remained virtually unchanged for over 70 years, a testament to a shape that simply works.
BIC Permanent Markers
Available in bullet tip and fine point formats, BIC Permanent Marker Pens deliver bold, long-lasting, fade-resistant ink suited to labelling, general marking and surfaces where a standard pen won't do the job. The 2000 and 2300 series are among the most widely recognised permanent markers in UK offices and warehouses.
BIC Marker Pen Pack
Available in multipacks across black, blue, green and red, a BIC Marker Pen Pack is a practical bulk-buying option for offices, retail environments and educational institutions that need a reliable supply on hand without constant reordering.
Wider BIC Stationery Range
Beyond the core pens and markers, BIC also produces mechanical pencils, highlighters and correction tools, extending the same reliability across a broader everyday stationery range that many businesses stock as a complete set.
BIC Pens Vs BIC Markers: Choosing The Right Tool
| Feature | BIC Pens | BIC Markers |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Everyday writing, note-taking, forms | Labelling, bold marking, multi-surface use |
| Ink Type | Ballpoint, smooth flow | Permanent, fade-resistant |
| Common Colours | Black, blue, red | Black, blue, green, red |
| Typical Setting | Offices, schools, retail counters | Warehouses, packaging, general labelling |
Where BIC Pens and Markers Are Used Most
| Setting | Typical Use Case |
|---|---|
| Offices | Everyday note-taking, form filling, signing documents |
| Schools | Classroom writing, homework, and exam use |
| Retail Counters | Signing receipts, quick notes, till-side use |
| Warehouses & Logistics | Labelling boxes, marking packaging, stock control |
| Healthcare Settings | Quick, reliable note-taking in busy environments |
| Homes | General everyday writing and household tasks |
Tips For Getting The Most from Your BIC Stationery
Store Pens and Markers Cap-Side Down
Storing ballpoint pens tip-down can help keep ink flowing evenly to the nib, reducing the chance of dry starts when picked up after a period of non-use.
Keep Markers Capped When Not in Use
Permanent markers can dry out if left uncapped for extended periods; always replace the cap fully after use to preserve ink for longer.
Buy in Bulk for Consistent Supply
For offices, schools and retail settings, buying BIC Pens and Markers in multipacks reduces the risk of running out mid-task and works out more cost-effective over time.
Match Marker Tip to the Task
Bullet tip markers suit general writing and labelling, while fine point markers are better suited to detailed work or smaller surfaces requiring precision.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the BIC Cristal so widely used?
Its consistent, smooth ink flow and genuine durability have made it the best-selling ballpoint pen in history since its 1950 launch.
Are BIC Markers permanent on most surfaces?
Yes, BIC Permanent Marker Pens are formulated with long-lasting, fade-resistant ink suited to a wide range of surfaces.
What colours do BIC markers come in?
Common options include black, blue, green, and red, often available as a BIC Marker Pen Pack for bulk buying.
Are BIC Pens suitable for schools and offices?
Yes, BIC Pens and Markers are a common staple across educational institutions, retail shops, and office environments due to their reliability and affordability.
How do I stop my BIC marker from drying out?
Always replace the cap fully and securely after each use, and store markers horizontally rather than upright where possible.
Does BIC make correction products too?
BIC's core range focuses on pens and markers; for correction fluid, Tipp-Ex is a natural complementary product available at Local Supplies.
Can BIC permanent markers write on plastic and cardboard?
Yes, BIC Permanent Marker Pens are designed to write cleanly across multiple surfaces, including plastic, cardboard, and most packaging materials.
Shop The Full Range
The complete BIC collection at Local Supplies covers ballpoint pens and permanent markers, dependable, affordable stationery trusted across offices, schools and retail settings.
For correction products to complement your BIC stationery, browse Tipp-Ex, including Tipp-Ex Correction Fluid 20ml 10 Pack.
The full Essentials range covers everything else available alongside BIC, and Best Sellers Essentials highlights what is currently most popular.