A forward thinking approach: Mehzabin Nair of Skanem India

Mehzabin Nair’s experience has shaped her approach to Skanem India’s operations. “I bring more than 20 years of deep industry expertise in packaging innovation, operational excellence, and customer-centric solutions,” she explains. “My focus is on driving efficiency, sustainability, and technology to enhance Skanem India’s market leadership. By fostering strategic growth and innovation, we will deliver superior value to our clients and stakeholders.”

Sustainability, a key driver for Skanem, will be a focal point in the coming years. Nair highlights the importance of this commitment, “Skanem India is dedicated to adopting eco-friendly materials, recyclable liners, and biodegradable adhesives. We invest in water-based inks, reduced waste processes, and energy-efficient equipment to lower our carbon footprint.”

The evolution of the label industry
Reflecting on the changes within the label industry, Nair says, “Over the years, the label industry has evolved with digitalisation, sustainability, and smart packaging,” she says. “Looking ahead, the next 5-10 years will see AI-driven automation, eco-friendly materials, and interactive labels reshaping the market.”

Nair says, “Innovation and sustainability will drive growth, and Skanem India is ready to lead this transformation.”
A hybrid approach to printing technologies

Skanem India’s hybrid approach to printing is central to its production strategy. This enables it to meet diverse customer needs. Nair explains, “Skanem India operates state-of-the-art flexo and digital printing equipment, ensuring high-quality, efficient, and versatile label production.”

To balance the two technologies, Skanem India has adopted a hybrid workflow. “Our workflow optimises job allocation — flexo for high-volume runs and digital for short runs and customisation. By leveraging automation, colour management, and lean processes, we achieve cost-effectiveness while delivering premium, sustainable labelling solutions,” says Nair.

Maintaining quality standards
“At Skanem India, we uphold stringent quality standards through a combination of advanced technology, robust processes, and continuous improvement initiatives,” Nair explains.

The company employs automated inspection systems, colour management tools, and precision printing technologies to maintain consistency. Nair elaborates, “Our lean manufacturing, Six Sigma methodologies, and real-time quality monitoring drive efficiency, defect reduction, and superior product performance.”

Addressing customer satisfaction
Nair places a strong emphasis on building long-term relationships with clients, grounded in customer satisfaction. “At Skanem India, customer satisfaction isn’t just a goal—it’s our commitment,” she states. “We build long-term relationships by offering tailored solutions, exceptional service, and unwavering quality.”

She continues, “With fast turnarounds, technical expertise, and a customer-first mindset, we ensure trust, reliability, and long-term success.”

Resilient supply chain strategies
In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, supply chain disruptions have become a major concern for many businesses. Nair said, “We prioritise supply chain resilience through strategic sourcing, strong supplier partnerships, and diversified procurement channels.”

Skanem India has also incorporated digital forecasting tools and local sourcing to ensure continuity. “We ensure uninterrupted supply, cost efficiency, and seamless service for our customers,” she adds.

Strategic goals for the future
Nair outlines the company’s direction, “We are committed to expanding market reach, investing in advanced printing technologies, and enhancing customer-centric solutions.”

She highlights sustainability as a core priority, stating, “Sustainability is at our core—we prioritise eco-friendly materials, waste reduction, and energy-efficient operations to lower our carbon footprint while driving operational excellence.”

Achieving key milestones
“Our goals include providing sustainable solutions, developing innovative designs to help our customers grow, and offering world-class embellishment and eye-catching value-added labelling solutions,” she shares. “Customer centricity and employee well-being are also at the forefront of our future ambitions.”

With a forward-thinking approach, Mehzabin Nair is steering Skanem India towards a future where innovation and sustainability go hand in hand, ensuring the company remains a leader in the packaging industry for years to come.n