Leena Uthup: Resilience keeps us steady, ensuring quality every time

Charmiane Alexander (CA): When and how did you start working at Colortone?
Leena Uthup (LU): My transition from working as a copywriter to becoming involved with Colortone took place in 2018. This shift was driven by necessity, marking a significant moment in my professional journey.

CA: What’s the USP at Colortone?
LU: We prioritise listening to our clients. We are more than just a printing service — we are a comprehensive solutions provider.

CA: Which print process holds a special place in your heart?
LU: Screen printing holds a special place in my heart. I’m deeply inspired by Lorenz Boegli’s work, which beautifully demonstrates how this process can be elevated to an art form at its highest potential.

CA: What do you consider Colortone’s greatest achievement?
LU: Resilience — it has always been Colortone’s greatest achievement, allowing us to navigate challenges and consistently deliver quality.

CA: What is your greatest extravagance at Colortone?
LU: Undoubtedly, my greatest extravagance has been my time. Time is a valuable yet often underestimated currency, and dedicating it thoughtfully has been instrumental in both my journey and Colortone’s growth.

CA: What is your preferred paper grade? And why?
LU: Rather than focusing solely on paper grades, I would say I’m a strong advocate for Munken Polar Rough paper. Its texture, finish, and exceptional print quality makes it stand out across all grades. As an avid reader, the touch and feel of the paper are
crucial to me, and Munken Polar Rough excels in delivering a tactile experience that enhances both visual and sensory appeal.

CA: What do you most value in your team?
LU: Professionalism. It becomes second nature over time and ensures consistency and quality at every stage of our work.

CA: Who are your most reliable production heads?
LU: Every employee at Colortone is a reliable asset. I believe reliability isn’t tied to designations — it’s a quality our entire team embodies.

CA: How do you select your photographs? 
LU:  It’s purely my personal preference— a mix of instinct, experience, and dash of ‘this just feels right!’

CA: Do you use Photoshop? Or do you despise it?
LU: I personally don’t use it, but there’s nothing to despise about it. Photoshop is undoubtedly one of the greatest technological marvels in the design world, offering incredible creative possibilities.

CA: What is the quality you seek in your customers? 
LU: Understanding. After all, we are all human. When a printer truly understands their customer — and vice versa — the collaboration becomes smoother, more enjoyable, and ultimately more successful.

CA: Which is your greatest contribution to Colortone?
LU: My background in copywriting has proven valuable in helping our customers save money on multiple occasions. I believe that’s a meaningful contribution I’m proud of.

CA: You have one centre in Kochi. Many digital print firms in Kerala have multiple centres. One centre versus multiple centres: what are the advantages and disadvantages?
LU: In our case, the more, the merrier doesn’t quite apply — primarily due to logistical challenges. Operating from a single centre allows us to maintain better control over quality, efficiency, and customer service.

CA: What do you make of digital print today?
LU: In Kerala, digital printing presents a lucrative opportunity for those who can keenly understand customer needs and tailor their services accordingly. It has become a crucial requirement in today’s market.

CA: The one thing that makes digital print in Kerala a winner?
LU: Given the current landscape, digital printing has taken centre stage due to its convenience, necessity, customisation potential, and cost-effectiveness. Today’s customers rely on it more than ever before.

CA: If you could change one thing about Colortone, what would it be?
LU: Sometimes, it’s best not to disrupt a good flow — if things are working well, refinement often outweighs change.

CA: In 20 years from now – where do you see Colortone?
LU: I see Colortone as a printer that has braved through numerous challenges — from its block-making origins to navigating an overcrowded industry — ultimately standing out as an exceptional and trusted name in the print fraternity.

CA: What is the trickiest project you have worked on?
LU: Every project has its challenges, as most of our customers approach us with print requirements they struggle to find solutions for. One memorable project involved creating a drawing book with paper that could support various colouring mediums. We
provided multiple paper options for testing until we found the perfect fit — resulting in a wonderful final product. It was a reminder that every job is unique, no matter how routine it may seem.