A balanced fusion: Samir Pansare's journey in print

Samir Pansare’s career is a testament to the fusion of tradition and innovation within the printing industry. As he aptly puts it, “My journey reflects a blend of creativity, tradition, and modern entrepreneurship.”

As the CEO of Samir Scantech, Pansare adeptly navigates the complexities of a constantly evolving sector, drawing upon his deep roots in Mumbai, with influences from both his Maharashtrian and Bohri backgrounds. Growing up in Mumbai, Pansare was shaped by a rich cultural tapestry. His father, Kiran Pansare, is a respected figure in the printing world, while his mother, Salma Pansare, hails from the Bohri community, known for its strong social connections and culinary heritage. This dual heritage has given him a broad perspective, enriching his approach to life and work.

Pansare’s educational path began at St Stanislaus High School in Bandra West (Mumbai), followed by a bachelor’s degree in commerce from MMK College. His thirst for knowledge led him to pursue a postgraduate diploma in management studies alongside a part-time diploma in commercial arts. In his youth, he dreamt of becoming a pilot, captivated by the allure of flight and the sight of pilots in uniform; a helicopter ride remains a goal on his bucket list. “We did not have cell phones back then, so we spent hours playing games like chor- police, lagori, and dodgeball,” he reflects, reminiscing about simpler times.

Despite his aviation aspirations, Pansare found his calling in the family business, guided by his father’s advice to gain work experience first. He worked with noted graphic designer Alka Kairmode, who instilled in him a keen understanding of colour theory and design. The significance of her gift, the book What is Graphic Design, continues to resonate with him as a valuable resource in his craft.

His journey took another step forward at TechNova Imaging Systems, where he gained practical experience in the digital print media division. There, he learned about the technical intricacies of large- format media, including ink limits, colour management, media profiling, and printer compatibility. Reflecting on this phase, Pansare notes, “These experiences served as the groundwork for my role in the family business.” This blend of education and experience has equipped him to lead Samir Scantech with a unique perspective, honouring his heritage while embracing modern advancements.

Transitioning the business to digital
In 2006, Pansare formally joined Samir Scantech, a company founded by his father in 1992, which he says was a ‘decisive time’ for the business. Reflecting on his initial involvement, Pansare remarks, “When I started, the business was all about film processing, cameras, and darkrooms.” This period marked the company’s transition from analogue to digital printing, a transformation Pansare played a significant role in steering. A notable milestone in this evolution was acquiring the first HP DesignJet 5000 large-format inkjet printer, fundamentally altering the company’s operational landscape.

Today, Samir Scantech has established itself in the realm of digital wide- and super wide-format printing, addressing the diverse needs of sectors such as interior design, fashion, events, and retail. Operating with a compact yet efficient team of four, the company has executed high-profile projects for brands including BMW, Lexus, Porsche, and Nike, along- side collaborations with various real estate firms like Rustomjee and Prestige.

“Our portfolio includes a variety of outputs, from expansive wall prints to bespoke installations, each project underscored by a commitment to quality,” explains Pansare.

A critical aspect of Samir Scantech’s operations is their careful selection of print media. The team prioritises sourcing materials, opting for quality canvas from TechNova and vinyl from renowned suppliers such as 3M and Avery. Pansare emphasised the approach, stating, “We focus on choosing the right material for each job, ensuring that it delivers the desired outcome in terms of quality and durability.” This meticulous attention to detail is evidenced in their output, which has garnered a reputation built on collaborative efforts with visual artists and designers.

Artistic and entrepreneurial influences
Pansare notes that much of their business development stems from referrals, stating, “Most of our new projects come from word-of-mouth recommendations.” He attributes this to the consistent quality of their service and the depth of relationships they cultivate with clients and designers, reinforcing their strategy of fostering long-term partnerships rather than attracting transient, walk-in customers.

The influence of family has profoundly shaped Pansare’s professional journey. “My father has been my biggest influence,” he reflects, highlighting his father’s emphasis on making informed decisions in business. “He encouraged me to use my head, not my heart, and that advice has served me well.” Furthermore, his mother, Salma, who integrated into a Maharashtrian family after marrying in 1975, has contributed significantly to his life and work. Pansare acknowledges her influence. He says, “Although primarily a housewife, she plays a vital role in the family business, managing accounts with notable precision.”

Pansare and his sister Shama Mehra were fortunate to be raised within a milieu rich in cultural diversity. Reflecting on their experiences, he notes, “When we visited my mother’s side of the family, we learned about Gujarati and Bohri traditions. The food was always a highlight,” with a particular emphasis on biryani—a dish that illustrates the culinary heritage influencing his upbringing. This confluence of cultural experiences has significantly shaped his identity and his creative outlook.

A pivotal figure in Pansare’s artistic journey was his grandfather, the late Narayan Pansare, a sculptor whose work continues to resonate within their family’s legacy. Known for his statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at Shivaji Park and as a designer of the Filmfare Award statuette, Narayan Pansare’s influence is palpable in his grandson’s work.

Pansare remarks, “I like to think I inherited some of my grandfather’s creativity,” and he channels this inheritance into his practice, notably through his engagement with clay to create small sculptures.

This blend of artistic sensibility and business acumen underpins Pansare’s professional trajectory. As the leader of Samir Scantech, he fosters an environment where creativity is balanced with precision. “Every project we take on is an opportunity to learn and grow,” he asserts, aligning the company’s ethos with a continuous quest for improvement. Collaborating with visual communication artists and creative agencies, Pansare says, “Samir Scantech ensures that all deliverables—whether tailored for corporate events or interior design— adhere to rigorous quality standards.”

Challenges and sustainability
The challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic tested the resilience of many businesses, and Samir Scantech was no exception. Pansare acknowledges the difficulties, stating, “It was tough, but demand has rebounded.” The firm has adapted by increasing its offerings in canvas and rexine printing while also tapping into the growing interest in fine art prints—an avenue that presents exciting potential for their future endeavours.

In the evolving business landscape, Pansare has pinpointed several critical challenges. He remarks, “The shift to digital displays has diminished the demand for traditional print, necessitating substantial investments in technology that may not always be viable.” This transformation emphasises the need for businesses to adapt swiftly to technological advancements while managing the financial implications of such changes.

Additionally, increasing transportation and import costs impact raw material prices, creating friction with customers who are often hesitant to embrace these hikes. As Pansare points out, “Unorganised competitors frequently undercut prices; however, clients tend to return when they recognise the value of quality and service.” This insight highlights a fundamental tension in the industry: balancing competitive pricing with maintaining high standards. Sustainability remains a central focus for Pansare, who advocates for a systematic approach to workflow optimisation that mitigates waste. “We plan every job meticulously, selecting materials carefully and ensuring we do not overuse resources. It is about maintaining a balance between creativity and responsibility,” he asserts. This approach enhances operational efficiency and aligns with increasing consumer demand for sustainable practices.

Passion and purpose
Beyond his professional commitments, Pansare finds respite in music and fitness. As a guitarist and pianist, he enjoys learning new songs during his leisure time. Sundays are dedicated to cycling with friends and exploring new breakfast spots, reflecting his appreciation for community engagement. He expresses a particular fondness for music, stating, “Music is an integral part of my life; Coldplay is my favourite band,” and he eagerly anticipates their upcoming concert in January, for which he has secured tickets. 

Family is equally significant to Pansare, who values time spent with his wife, Priya, CEO of the India Business Group (IBG)—and their 14-year-old daughter, Ira. Describing Ira’s development, he notes, “She’s growing up so fast, and it’s wonderful to see her developing her interests and passions.” Currently, Ira is learning the ukulele and has set her sights on a future in physiology, illustrating the fresh perspectives of the next generation. For Pansare, the prospects ahead appear promising, both for his family and his enterprise. While he harbours ambitions of retiring to concentrate on pottery and the creation of ceramic crockery, his current focus is on expanding Samir Scantech and pursuing new avenues within the fine art and digital printing sectors.

With a robust foundation stemming from his artistic and entrepreneurial background, Pansare is making significant strides in the industry. He states, “I believe in the power of creativity and innovation to not only transform my business but also to inspire others in the community.” This philosophy drives his commitment to personal and professional growth, demonstrating a clear integration of passion and purpose in all his endeavours.