Abstract: Apparatus for gripping pliable sheet materials including at least first and second elongated substantially linear jaw members, the first jaw member being complementary to second jaw member, and a mounting device for mounting the first jaw member to allow it to conform longitudinally to the second jaw member to enable the material to be clamped fully along the length of the jaw members. Typically the gripping apparatus is incorporated in a dispenser and the gripping apparatus includes a pair of upper jaw members and a pair of complementary lower jaw members between which the material may be gripped for severing by a severing blade.