Pallippuram Sajith: We democratised the trade

How does your company and your products embody the spirit of excellence that the Awards aims to celebrate?
Our association with the PrintWeek Awards dates back to its inception, reflecting our deep commitment to the industry. As the leading manufacturer and supplier of bookbinding solutions across South and Middle East Asia, as well as several African countries, our influence extends to nearly every aspect of the book business in these regions. We strive for excellence not only in the quality and performance of our products but also in delivering services that exceed our customers' expectations. This dedication mirrors the spirit of the PrintWeek Awards, where the winners consistently surpass customer expectations by delivering print products that truly delight.

What can our industry learn from the Award winners and shortlisted companies?
A product is the culmination of inspiration, hard work, and a wealth of collective experience. The Award winners and shortlisted companies have demonstrated an exceptional blend of innovation, meticulous thought processes, and an unwavering desire to excel, resulting in products that stand out as award-worthy. As India stands on the brink of tremendous global opportunities, our industry can learn a great deal from these leaders — particularly the dedication and expertise that went into creating these remarkable products.

What specific contributions have your products made to driving excellence within the industry?
Our journey began with providing solutions that revolutionised the bookbinding industry, making it easier to deliver high-quality books on time. Our bookbinding machines quickly became the benchmark for binding quality and embellishments. We took features typically found only in high-end, expensive bookbinding lines and made them accessible even in single-clamp perfect binders. In doing so, we democratised the trade, ensuring that exceptional quality and precision were within reach for everyone in the industry.

A plant-based spread maker has moved into paper-based tubs. One sustainable product or concept that your team is working on?
We are actively collaborating with our long-term partner, Henkel Adhesives, on multiple projects aimed at reducing single-use plastics in packaging and bookbinding. We've already introduced innovative bookbinding lines designed to minimise space and energy usage, making book production more sustainable. Additionally, we've developed models that carefully monitor and control adhesive consumption. These machines not only deliver top-tier surface preparation but also optimise adhesive usage, ensuring a more eco-friendly and efficient process overall.

A rollercoaster season. One tip you have for the industry for the rest of 2024?
My advice to the industry for the rest of 2024 is to stay true to your vision and objectives. Resist the temptation to constantly tweak your plans on a month-to-month basis. The pandemic taught us all that external factors can disrupt even the best-laid plans. Instead, focus on maintaining a strong connection with your customers. Understand their needs by keeping your feet on the ground and your ears open. This approach will provide the most reliable foundation for planning and forecasting in these uncertain times.

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