Interview with S.Venkatasubramanian | Packaging Development | Paras Pharmaceuticals Ltd

I have graduated from the 1st batch the of the PG program from the Indian institute of Packaging, Mumbai in the year 1987. Since then I have been in various FMCG companies (MNC and Indian companies) all through in the Packaging Development department. The journey all along has been - capturing what is in the minds of Brand Manager and converting it to a reality in the retail shelf.

The key challenge, of late, is the tremendous pressure put on Packaging Development to innovate yet be cost effective, be robust yet have faster turnaround time, be distinct yet be sustainable. I, of course, view these as very constructive challenges and try to fulfill them as best as possible.

To accomplish this, I require best support from packaging vendors. I would want them to be more professional, more proactive and adopt latest techniques and most importantly, stay committed to timelines.

Since my organization is in a transition phase, I am unable to comment on this. However, I see all FMCG companies try to use Packaging as a strategic tool to innovate, achieve better cost, be more environ conscious and expand Markets by offering target specific packs (sachets, single use blister packs, etc)

Could you share with us your plans for the future

Work for another 2-3 years and maybe on my own later on

• What innovation / differentiation I can bring in the project
• How can I bring robustness in the design stage itself
• How can I make it happen as per time commitment

The Packaging vendors must focus on consistent quality, innovation and for God’s sake adhere to timelines. I have not included price here as I am sure if the above factors are taken care of, the packaging users will be willing to pay a little premium to the supplier.

Less professional approach, inadequate infrastructure (mainly in the mould making industry) and general nonchalance on the timelines, are the biggest areas of improvement I would expect from the packaging Industry. At the same time, I would give credit to them for their flexibility, extreme hard work and sincerity.

Consumers expectations on convenience in packaging, Statutory requirements with respect to Eco friendliness, Loss of sale due to spurious / duplicate packs, are some of the trends that is making a big impact in the way packaging needs to be looked for future.

I feel that the Indian packaging industry is already at world class level in flexible and paper board packaging. I feel there will be more investments in Rigid packaging, Mould making and Packaging machines in the years to come. From the user’s perspective, I foresee further more of automation in Packaging Lin offering extremely high speeds.

This website has almost become the “Google” of packaging and made such an impact in packaging industry through concepts like daily innovation newsletter, p-exchange, etc. I also see huge effort from you increase the awareness of packaging. Great job going, Keep it up!