Sahni is the first Indian to be a recipient of the award. He officially accepted the award at Labelexpo Americas 2022 in Chicago.

A chemistry graduate, Sahni began his career in 1971, working in his father’s stationery company, Weldon Sales Corporation. From being a company making just fountain pen inks, office adhesive and hair fixers (used by Sikhs), Sahni added different varieties of inks, industrial adhesives, injection moulding, blow moulding, plastic scales, artist materials, ball pens, and adhesive tapes to the company’s portfolio. 

“Weldon in stationery was a household brand built by my father. I only kept adding items to the range. I later transformed Weldon into a brand recognised widely in the label industry,” Sahni told PrintWeek in an early interview.

Sahni’s blog in which he writes about the self-adhesive label industry in India and world has over 200 articles on success stories, technology, market size and events, among other topics. The blog has close to five-lakh page views this year. Besides, Sahni also sits on the board of directors of Label Manufacturers Association of India (LMAI), supporting and mentoring the association. “As a director, I try to curate and organise events that drive value for label printers,” he told PrintWeek.

Speaking on the occasion, Sahni shared his four life lessons that he picked up on his journey into the label business. 

One, inheritance is a stepping stone, not a story set in stone. He gave the example of how from making fountain pens, he started making labelstock. 

Two, one must not be afraid to step out of one’s comfort zone. He gave the example of how he decided to partner with overseas manufacturers in a bid to grow in the business. 

Third, you are as valuable as your network.

Fourth, always be willing to share knowledge, which Sahni has been doing over the years through his blog.