Thursday, December 26, 2013

FLEXIBLE PACKAGING TRENDS IN 2014

With the year 2013 virtually coming to a close, the time is ripe to analyze the trends in the coming year. The packaging industry in Indiais worth $24.6 billion with 22,000 firms comprising of raw material manufacturers, machinery suppliers, subsidiary material etc. The plastic packaging in India is growing at about 20-25%. (Source: http://www.printweek.in/News/331179,india-will-be-the-fourth-largest-packaging-power-says-dr-d-purandeswari.aspx)
In 2014, the basic packaging trends are expected to be:
1) Focus on the shape and structure: The packaged good will always be recognized by the packaging style and in 2014, the shape, size and material that the product is packaged in will gain priority as each aspect can be an identifying tool for the brand.
Packaging will need to reduce to smaller portions as the trend of customers buying those portions is gaining popularity. Hence, single serve or single use size packaging will be in trend in the New Year. Customers will lean more towards flexible packaging since it’s more convenient in terms of storage and takes up lesser space than other forms of packaging.
The materials used in the manufacturing of the package are also going to be vital. The texture, opacity, the finish and finally the recyclability or the amount of recycled material that is used in the package will be a structural element which will be on top of the customer’s agenda.
2) Message on the package: Consumers today are bombarded with information and in such a scenario for your package to stand out amongst its competitors and to retain the consumer’s attention it is important that the message on your package is concise and clear.  Basically, two fundamental questions: What are you- wherein the writing should clearly tell the customer about the packaged product. In case of any ambiguity, the packaging should make sure to clear the confusion. The second would be-what are you-the manufacturer can talk about the benefits of the product, its USP etc but care should be taken that there is no overdose of information. People today have no time to read and analyze overcrowded package.
3) Stand up pouches gain popularity- Stand up pouches are a favorites of customers in today’s age. A growing number of consumers favor the trend of stand up pouches. These pouches are cost saving, has a longer and improved shelf life, better barrier performance. Apart from that even for the manufacturer it’s a more economical option it decreases operating cost, increases output and offer greater flexibility in terms of shape and design. Stand up pouches are used extensively in FMCG produce. Stand up pouches is going to be one of the major gainers and trendsetters in 2014.
4) Green Packaging- Recyclable PET made from renewable sources will see a spurt in the coming year and the trend is here to stay. Due to the largely aware segment of consumers large industries have been investing heavily in development of environmentally friendly flexible packaging. Uflex Ltd., India’s largest flexible packaging manufacturer has made sincere efforts to reduce environmental impact of its products and the production process by manufacturing packages that are made out of use of green raw materials and are reprocess able thereby, minimizing emissions that may pose a threat to the environment.
The Indian packaging scenario will witness more growth for flexible packaging owing to its cost-effectiveness and sustainability credentials. Be it in the West or in the East, the growth will be driven by a host of factors within the packaging and consumer retail sectors.  Features like longer product shelf life, weight reduction and customer convenience are areas for packaging manufacturers to grow and innovate in.

Monday, November 25, 2013

UFLEX’S POLAND UNIT OPERATIONS

India’s largest flexible packaging company Uflex Ltd had invested $ 80 Million to set-up 30,000 tones polyester film unit in the Polish city of Wrzesnia. It was announced on the occasion of completion of one full year of operation of Uflex’s plant in Poland that since the commencement of its operation in July, 2012, the company has achieved revenues  of USD 90 Million. The Polish plant is operating in its full capacity and is utilized to meet demands for flexible packaging solutions from within Poland and neighboring countries of Europe.
Uflex has plans for a major corporate revamp wherein the company plans to bring its overseas plastic film business under an umbrella company based in Dubai. Plans are also in the pipeline to list the said company overseas to part-finance future expansion plans.
Uflex has its presence in over 140 countries across the world with plastic film manufacturing facilities in India, Dubai, Mexico, Egypt, Poland and Kentucky, U.S. and packaging products facilities at multiple locations in India.
With the company’s vision to ‘Progress with Distinction’, Uflex brings a variety of value added flexible packaging material and sophisticated products like BOPET, BOPP and CPP, state of the art converting machines, rotogravure cylinders giving the company an edge over its competitors. The company also specializes in a wide variety of packaging machines like Vertical Form-Fill-Seal Machines, Horizontal Wrapping Machines, Special Purpose Machines, High Speed Pouch Making Machines.
In the last financial year 2012-13, plastic films contributed nearly 60% of the company’s revenue. Value added products contributed around 53% of the earnings having 40% share in the revenues. Uflex Ltd offers complete packaging solutions for a wide range of FMCG goods, dairy products, pharmaceuticals, pet food, sugar, automotive oil, lubricants and components.
Speaking to journalists who were touring the Uflex plant in Poland Mr. R.K. Jain, Group President for corporate finance and strategy stated: “We have pursued global investment in both greenfield and brownfield projects. This has been our consistent strategy. In this regard, we have successfully invested more than $500 million. This has given us the strength to address our dual commitment: To the investors, by creating incremental value on their investments, and to clients, by offering products that add value to their go-to-market strategy. The first full year of operations of Uflex in Poland saw a contribution of $90 million to the revenues. We also witnessed favorable demand trends for our innovative flexible packaging solutions. This saw an increased uptake from clients globally. Let me also add, the profit margins are showing improvement quarter-over-quarter during the current financial year.”
Future plans
Uflex plans to consolidate its position as a truly Indian MNC. The strategy of global expansion includes capacity expansion and adding manufacturing lines for various product categories in existing and new locations to increase proximity to the markets and also to include the broad portfolio of value added services to clients.
In the coming three years beginning 2014-15 the company has plans to go in for a major capacity expansion to diversify their products range, grow revenues and improve margins.
For the financial year ended March 31, Uflex recorded 14% growth in consolidated net revenues at Rs.5,161 crore, against Rs.4,516 crore in the previous year. For the six-month period ended Sep 30, 2013 consolidated revenues were Rs.2,914 crore, against Rs.2,626 crore in the corresponding period last year.
While the higher revenue growth is attributed to new capacity added by the company since the manufacturing facilities in Poland and Kentucky in US commenced commercial production over the last year and also witnessing favorable demand trends for its innovative flexible packaging solutions, which saw increased uptake from clients globally whereas the profit margins are showing improvements quarter over quarter during the current year.

Monday, November 11, 2013

UFLEX LTD Q2 FY 2014 CONSOLIDATED NET REVENUE AT RS. 1516 CRORE AND NET PROFIT AT RS. 46 CRORE

New Delhi:- Uflex Ltd, the Bombay Stock Exchange (UFLEX: 500148) and NSE listed, India’s largest flexible packaging company maintaining a sustained growth trajectory, has achieved a consolidated revenue for the September quarter of FY 2014 of Rs. 1516 crore as against Rs. 1250 crore for the same quarter last year.
On a sequential basis, the company registered growth in its quarter-on-quarter consolidated net revenue of Rs. 1516 crore and net profit at Rs. 46 crore, over consolidated net revenue and net profit figures of the preceding quarter that stood at Rs. 1398 crore and at Rs. 43 crore respectively in the April-June quarter (Q1 FY13-14).
For the six months period ended September 30, 2013, UFlex recorded Consolidated revenue at Rs. 2914 crore compared to Rs. 2626 crore in the same period in previous fiscal and net profit of Rs. 89 crore against Rs. 113 crore in the corresponding period last year.
While the higher revenue growth is attributed to new capacity added by the company since the manufacturing facilities in Poland and Kentucky in US commenced commercial production over the last year and also witnessing favourable demand trends for its innovative flexible packaging solutions, which saw increased uptake from clients globally whereas the profit margins are showing improvements quarter over quarter during the current year.
According to Mr. Ashok Chaturvedi, Chairman and M.D. of UFLEX Ltd, “The higher revenue growth has come on the back of increased manufacturing capacities at our disposal with the newly commissioned facilities in Poland and Kentucky which resulted in expanding our market reach and improving response time to the demand from the regions that these facilities address. Innovation and expansion are two aspects that Uflex is always eagerly pursuing and has ensured that we maintain our steady growth trajectory.”
For the full financial year ended March 31, 2013, UFlex had recorded a strong growth of 14% in consolidated net revenues at Rs. 5161 crore as against Rs. 4516 crore during a year ago, on the back of favourable demand trends globally.
Uflex’s strong manufacturing base in India, Mexico, Dubai, Egypt, Poland and Kentucky caters to global markets spanning USA, Canada, South America, UK, Europe, Russia, CIS countries, South Africa and other African countries, the Middle East and the South Asian Countries.
Expansion Plans
UFLEX’s agenda of global expansion and consolidation of its position as a truly Indian MNC (Multinational Corporation) is reinforced with its strategy of capacity expansion and adding manufacturing lines for various product categories across existing and newer locations to increase proximity to the markets, but also to bring broad portfolio of value added products to its clients at competitive price points.
The company offers its flexible packaging products and solutions globally to clients including Unilever, Pepsi, Wrigley, Procter & Gamble, Colgate, Palmolive, Nestle, Gillette, Ranbaxy, Perfetti, Joyco, Monsanto, ITC, Godrej Pillsbury, Tata Tea, Hindustan Petroleum, Indian Oil, Britannia, Dabur, Haldiram, Wockhardt, HUL, Parle Biscuit, Birla 3M, among others.

Thursday, October 31, 2013

The Growing Packaging Industry in India

The Indian Packaging industry is growing at an exceptional pace. Packaging is an integral part of many sectors across the country and across sectors. According to data available, the Indian Institute of Packaging (IIP) has touted the total packaging industry in India at present at USD 27.6 billion and by 2016 this is expected to rise to USD 43.7 billion. The packaging industry was growing at a healthy rate of 12%p.a. while the global growth rate of packaging was 5% p.a.

The large and fast growing middle class Indian population and the growth of the organized middle sector has spiraled the growth of the packaging industry. The retail market in India is the 5th largest in the world according to the IIP and for investment it has been ranked the 2nd most favorite emerging market destinations. By 2018 this market is expected to rise to USD 1.3 trillion.

There are close to 22,000 packaging companies in the country which manufacture raw materials, machinery supplies and additional materials. The processed food manufacturing industry contributes a major chunk (48%) to the consumption of flexible packaging material. Others like pharma, personal care and misc constitute the rest of percentage.

The plastic packaging industry in particular has registered a growth of 18-20%. The flexible packaging market is USD 4 billion.

The flexible packaging industry has been constantly developing innovative packaging solutions for various sectors and applications. In this regard Uflex ltd is at the helm of delivering innovation packaging solutions through its constant and improved R&D. With a vision to ‘Progress with Distinction’, Uflex is privileged to contribute to society by producing a variety of value added flexible packaging material, sophisticated products including films like BOPET, BOPP and CPP; state-of-the-art packaging and converting machines and rotogravure cylinders, thereby providing world class flexible packaging solutions to its customers.

Before the advancement of the industry the quality assurance of packaging was lagging behind but now it is no more so, and domestic packaging is now in reckoning with packaging of international standards. Also, packaging has become an integral part of creating brand value. With flexible packaging, manufacturers are increasingly influencing it to match their products and its specifics.

The packaging industry is an extremely competitive one. The industry is expected to register further growth fuelled by demand for more expensive films and coatings for longer shelf lives of products packaged. Also a trend in the food industry of going away from bulk food packaging to single-serve products will also be an advantage for the packaging manufacturers.

As compared to developed economies like China and Germany which have packaging level consumption per person per annum of 20kgs and 42 kgs respectively, India’s consumption is at a low 4.3kgs per person p.a. Hence, there is still a huge scope for innovations, entrepreneurships and logistical advancements. Initiatives are required to convert the large unpacked commodities into packed, processed and well presented goods. Uflex Ltd is committed towards positive growth and making the Indian flexible packaging market at par with the markets in developed countries.

Monday, October 28, 2013

Uflex invests $400 million to expand

India’s $1 billion film and flexible packaging maker Uflex Ltd. has given a nod to a plan that includes expanding plants and establishing new factories in India and overseas.

The firm, one of the largest and fastest-growing flexible packaging firms in India, has drawn up a three-year growth strategy.

“The expansion plan … envisages opening new plants in new locations inside and outside India,” said President R.K. Jain, in an interview with Plastics News at the company’s headquarters in Noida, near Delhi.

“We have earmarked an investment of $400 million,” said Jain.

The move is aimed at doubling the company’s annual revenue to $2 billion in four to five years.
In the past three years, Uflex has opened plants in Egypt, Poland and the U.S., besides India, and expanded its Mexico facility.

“We have now consolidated and stabilized our operations in these markets and we are now ready for next phase of expansion,” he said. Uflex has not identified sites for the proposed plants. “We have no plant in the Far Eastern market, so that could be one of the regions on our radar,” he said.

Uflex controls about a 30-35 percent share of India’s $4 billion packaging industry.

Thursday, September 26, 2013

How Flexible Packaging Helps Manufacturers of Consumer Goods

In today’s age consumer goods manufacturers face tough competition as they all struggle to find methods to lure the consumer towards their products. Money is spent on marketing, advertising, publicity etc. New methods are devised to make the consumer use/try their product.  It’s not an easy task, since no matter what you manufacture there is already an existing competitor present in the market.

In this time of cut throat competition, a number of manufacturers are turning to flexible packaging of their products. This form of packaging offers a variety of exciting marketing opportunities to the producer without increasing the cost of production. The packaging can be tailored to suit the merchandising requirements.

The 3D / 4D stand up pouches are a popular style of packaging. It is made by blending several layers of plastic with aluminum. This combination allows for a new and sophisticated printing and designing techniques to be used on the packet. This fact alone gives the manufacturers to design attractive logos, designs, graphics etc on their package which can catch the eye of the consumer.

Flexible style of packaging can be customized into practically any shape or size. They can also incorporate a variety of colors and styles. A different looking packet is bound to attract the eye of the consumer.
Flexible packaging allows the usage of same style of pouches to store different items. For instance the basic pouch can be used to store food, beverage and non-food items. With the addition of a special feature the pouch can be even more customized. For e.g., if a spout is added to the basic pouch it can be used to store liquids. The addition of a zipper and diaphragm will make the pouch more convenient to store and restore dry items.

Flexible packaging helps businesses and brands gain recognizition. The process is cheap so even the most cost conscious business can afford it. It can be customized to suit a brand so that businesses don’t have to end up choosing between short term gains and long term recognizition.

Uflex believes that the greatest improvement in the packaging industry is the flexible packaging. Many of the innovations that have become a part of the FMCG industry are products of the flexible packaging industry.

Uflex pushes for new innovations and trends thanks to the breakthroughs in plastic research and raw material enhancements.

Friday, August 30, 2013

Importance of Design in Packaging

The world renowned marketing guru Mr. Philip Kotler said that failure rate of new consumer products is as high as 80%. That means that on an average of 100 new consumer brands hitting the Indian stores only 20 of them survive. So what does it take for a product or stay on the shelf, or better still get picked up by the end consumer?
When a consumer visits a supermarket or a grocery store he searches for the item which are known to him or looks at items which he finds visually appealing. Visuals are the mainstay of promoting a product. The more attractive the package, better are the chances of it flying off the shelf into the shopping basket.
If there is a new product, a spiffy package may tempt the customer to try the product. Packaging is often the consumer’s first point of contact. Even in cases of known brands, a re-launch will require attractive packaging. Without that the re launch will be a guaranteed failure. But there are points to consider when designing the package:
  •          The design should be functional. That is to say that it should be easy to use and convenient
  •          It should protect the content it holds
  •          Allow for easy storage, transportation and distribution
  •          Provide the product information to the consumer
  •          Draw attention to itself amongst competition

No matter how good a product is, poor or drab packaging can keep it from selling. A good design should reflect the brand and personality of the company. Apart from a good looking package the manufacturer should also ensure that the shape and materials are equally appealing. Customers also look for honesty in the brands they choose to use. Simply said, they want to know whether the contents listed on the package are exactly what they are to find inside it. For this purpose, see through option in the package, if possible, could be provided in the package design and ensure that their packages look trustworthy. This can happen if the packages are made from the highest quality of materials and should be in tandem with the image of the company. For eg, a company promoting clean and green should also be recycling and innovative.

Uflex Ltd. ensures the production of highest quality of plastics, which are top of the order. Our in-depth R&D of the market and the needs of the consumers ensure that we manufacture and deliver only the finest quality to our customers. Top of the line designs and recyclable plastics have been our mainstay for last many years. Use of creative graphics and shapes has ensured that our packages hold the end consumer interest for a sustainable period of time.

Wednesday, August 7, 2013

UFLEX LTD Q1 FY 2014 CONSOLIDATED NET REVENUE AT RS. 1398 CRORE AND NET PROFIT AT RS. 43 CRORE

New Delhi: August 6, 2013 – Uflex Ltd, the Bombay Stock Exchange (UFLEX: 500148) and NSE listed, India’s largest flexible packaging company, has registered the consolidated net revenue for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 at Rs. 1398 crore as against Rs. 1376 crore for the same period last year.
The firm’s consolidated net profit for the June quarter of FY 2014 stood at Rs. 43 crore as against Rs. 56 crore for the same quarter last year. However, sequentially, the revenue and net profit for quarter ended June, 2013 viz – a – viz quarter ended March, 2013 has grown by 13 % and 5 % to Rs. 1398 crore (Revenue) and Rs. 43 crore (Net Profit), respectively.
The higher revenue growth is attributed to new capacity expansion globally and increased uptake of innovative flexible packaging solutions offered by the company across sectors. Uflex had added capacities from the newly commissioned manufacturing facilities as part of its expansion in Poland and Kentucky during the previous financial year. Collectively the two facilities involved investments of about $150 million.
The polyester films plant in Kentucky, in the US has annual production capacity of 30,000 metric tonnes, and similar capacity is available in Wrzesnia, in Poland. With the new manufacturing facilities and other expansions in place, UFLEX is all set to achieve the next milestone of $2 billion revenue mark over the next couple of years.
According to Mr. Ashok Chaturvedi, Chairman and M.D. of UFLEX Ltd, “The higher revenue growth has come on the back of increasing manufacturing capacities across our facilities in Egypt, Mexico, Dubai and India, in addition to the new facilities in Kentucky and Poland to cater to the increasing demand trends. Innovation, expansion and harnessing growth opportunities at the right time has been the key to our strong foothold in the flexible packaging market globally.”
For the full financial year ended March 31, 2013, UFlex had recorded a strong growth of 14% in consolidated net revenues at Rs. 5161 crore as against Rs. 4516 crore during a year ago, on the back of favourable demand trends globally.
Uflex’s strong manufacturing base in India, Mexico, Dubai, Egypt, Poland and Kentucky caters to global markets spanning USA, Canada, South America, UK, Europe, Russia, CIS countries, South Africa and other African countries, the Middle East and the South Asian Countries.
Expansion Plans
UFLEX’s agenda of global expansion and consolidation of its position as a truly Indian MNC (Multinational Corporation) is reinforced with its strategy of capacity expansion and adding manufacturing lines for various product categories across existing and newer locations to increase proximity to the markets, but also to bring broad portfolio of value added products to its clients at competitive price points.
The company offers its flexible packaging products and solutions globally to clients including Unilever, Pepsi, Wrigley, Procter & Gamble, Colgate, Palmolive, Nestle, Gillette, Ranbaxy, Perfetti, Joyco, Monsanto, ITC, Godrej Pillsbury, Tata Tea, Hindustan Petroleum, Indian Oil, Britannia, Dabur, Haldiram, Wockhardt, HUL, Parle Biscuit, Birla 3M, among others.

Monday, July 29, 2013

Sustainable and Convenient Packaging

Green is the new buzzword within the packaging industry. Sustainable ideas and environmental friendly packaging is at the helm of innovation for the flexible packaging companies all over the world. The ecological impact and effect on environment by various packaging solutions is the significant force at present. The mantra is the 3 Rs which can help save our environment is Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.

The latest technologies helps the manufacturers to engineer and produce packaging that is simple to use, is eco-friendly and also creates an appeal amongst the consumers.

Flexible packaging today offers a variety of packaging options that has shrink sleeves, resealable option, rise up plastic packages, zip pouches, stand up pouches etc. These help the food take the shape of the package and preserve the content for a longer shelf life. The quality of lamination also helps preserve the food and its taste for a longer period. Flexible packaging is a sustainable packaging solution as it makes less use of resources and materials. There is less wastage and less use of energy and water at the manufacturing level.

There are diverse packaging systems for different kinds of products. The manufacturers adopt them in order to satisfy the requirements and in accordance to the taste of the consumers. In this blog we look at the sustainable benefits offered by Foil packaging and stand up pouches.

Foil packaging is additionally being adopted by a number of snack manufacturing units as it releases less amount of plastic harm to the atmosphere. The bag has the power to sustain shock, squeeze, temperature changes and it doesn’t have any negative impact on the human body. Many manufacturers opt for vacuum packaging along with foil package. This allows the food to be free from contamination and the foil ensures that the packaged product stays fresh throughout its intended shelf life. It also saves up on space as compared to more traditional methods of packaging.

A stand up pouch is another option in flexible packaging as an eco friendly alternative to other forms of packaging especially for liquid products. It is a more sustainable option as compared to more traditional forms of rigid packaging like bottles, cans, jars etc which are used to packing liquid products, baby food, cereal etc. Stand up pouches use less space which means less transportation and storage cost. The chances of spillage etc are also lessened considerably. Many pouches come with resealable options like screw on caps which make the product more convenient and sustainable. Spouted pouches are a popular choice among the consumers, manufacturers, and retailers due to their ability to inhibit harmful impact on the environment, their ease of use, inexpensive nature, and flexible packaging options.

Uflex has always been committed towards sustainable options of flexible packaging. Being on the edge of innovation we provide packaging that keeps the products safe, fresh and devoid of any harmful reactions. With our constant R&D for safer and environment friendly packaging, we are dedicated to bringing safer, better and sustainable packaging solutions.

Our Green pet and rPET techniques ensure that the plastic is manufactured in an environment friendly manner without compromising on the quality of the product. Uflex has identified 4 areas of sustainability and they are:

-Energy conservation

-Reduction in carbon based resources

-waste minimization

- recycling

To know more about our sustainability initiatives please follow this link:


Thursday, June 27, 2013

Flexible Packaging & Food Safety

‘It’s all in the packaging’ is a phrase most manufacturers swear by. Unless the consumer tastes the end product, he wouldn’t know the quality. But to convince him to pick up that packet from the supermarket shelf, a good and attractive packaging plays a major part.

The role of flexible packaging isn’t limited to just attract the consumer. It is also meant to protect the food items inside.  Protection from contamination and deterioration throughout its shelf life is also an integral part of good flexible packaging. It must also be informative of the nutrients and ingredients and other details in compliance with the labeling and packaging regulations.

Some of the basic features considered for good flexible packaging are:

· Compatibility with the product and storage conditions
· Protection of the product from deterioration of chemical, physical or biological nature

· 
Appropriate packaging intended for the final use of the product (e.g. - Microwavable packaging, resealable packets etc)

· 
Ability to sustain the stress of production and distribution - won’t crack/break or degrade

No material is inert. When a material like plastic is put into contact with edible products there will be a release of substances from the plastic into the edible content. The release will depend on 3 factors namely:

-The types of material

-Type of edible content

-Contact conditions

However, the release or ‘migrants’ as they are known into the food content doesn’t not render it toxic or dangerous to consume   because a shield layer of plastic which is food grade is used while forming the packaging material.  Even the   migration is taken into account by regulators while approving a new food contact substances. Studies on toxicology are carried out by regulators prior to approval.

Uflex Ltd., India’s largest flexible packaging company has been offering amongst others, the food packaging solutions for more than two decades now.  The company offers packaging materials for food products made out of BOPET (Biaxially Oriented Polytthylene Terapthalate), BOPP (Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene) and CPP (Cast Polypropylene) films. The manufacturing of these products are in strict adherence to the international standards and norms. Flexible packaging at Uflex is known for excellent chemical resistance, strength, protection against moisture and odour and dimensional stability.

Keeping up with the times and the dynamics of the packaging industry Uflex has been a pioneer in setting benchmarks for delivering innovative packaging concepts and to ensure the safety and viability of the packaged food in its life cycle. 

Thursday, May 30, 2013

UFLEX Ltd Q4 FY2012-’13 Consolidated Net Revenue at Rs. 1240 crore; and Net Profit at Rs. 41 Crore

New Delhi, May 30, 2013:- Uflex Ltd, the Bombay Stock Exchange (UFLEX: 500148) and NSE listed, India's largest flexible packaging company has registered the Consolidated net revenue for the March quarter of 2013 of Rs. 1240 crore as against Rs. 1175  crore for the same period last year, up 5.5%  whereas the sales volume has grown by 13% due to availability of additional capacities at the new manufacturing facilities that commenced operations. However, the consolidated net profit for the quarter ended March 31, 2013 has been lower at Rs. 41 crore as against Rs. 51 crore for the same period last year due to continued downward pressure on the operating margins.

For the full financial year ended March 31, 2013, UFlex recorded a strong growth of 14% in consolidated net revenues at Rs. 5161 crore as against Rs. 4516 crore for the last year.  The net profit for the full financial year (FY 2012-13) has been lower  at Rs. 190 crore against Rs. 255 crore in the last year, a decrease  of 25%.

The higher revenue growth is attributed to new capacity expansion globally and increased uptake of innovative flexible packaging solutions offered by the company across sectors. Uflex completed the expansion in Poland successfully during July, 2012 and in Kentucky, USA during January 2013. Collectively the two facilities involved investments of about $150 million.   

According to Mr. Ashok Chaturvedi, Chairman and M.D. of UFLEX Ltd, “With growing number of markets in our fold and manufacturing facilities at important commercial centres of the globe gives us the necessary edge to serve our clients with quality products and services. Our direct near-shore presence to clients has enabled us to serve them promptly which is important in the dynamic business environment today. This has ensured long term relationships with customers globally and reflects well in our growth trajectory.”

Uflex's strong manufacturing base in India, Mexico, Dubai, Egypt, Poland and USA caters to global markets spanning USA, Canada, South America, UK, Europe, Russia, CIS countries, South Africa and other African countries, the Middle East and the South Asian Countries.

Expansion Plans
UFLEX’s agenda of global expansion and consolidation of its position as a truly Indian MNC (Multinational Corporation) is reinforced with its strategy of capacity expansion and adding manufacturing lines for various product categories across existing and newer locations to increase proximity to the markets, but also to bring broad portfolio of value added products to its clients at competitive price points.

The company offers its flexible packaging products and solutions globally to clients including Unilever, Pepsi, Wrigley, Procter & Gamble, Colgate, Palmolive, Nestle, Gillette, Ranbaxy, Perfetti, Joyco, Monsanto, ITC, Godrej Pillsbury, Tata Tea, Hindustan Petroleum, Indian Oil, Britannia, Dabur, Haldiram, Wockhardt, HUL, Parle Biscuit, Birla 3M, among others. 

Sunday, May 26, 2013

Sustainable Packaging and Design

Sustainability is an oft repeated phrase these days owing to the threat that our slowly depleting natural resources are facing.  Flexible packaging designers are trying to use material which will be sustainable in the long run and will not be a hazard to the environment and will also look equally attractive.
Uflex products are designed keeping in mind the sustainability of the packaging. We understand how hazardous plastics can spell for the earth and keeping this in mind we have constantly evolved ourselves and our produce. Along with the sustainability of our packaging we believe that design is an equally important component.
If we look at sustainable packaging from a design perspective, design makes the packaging better. An attractive design package was good for the customer earlier but with a sustainable designed package, it will be good for the environment too.
How does one achieve a good design along with sustainability? There are roughly 3 principles which we will share with you:
  • It’s all about the product: For a holistic design and sustainable packaging it would be sensible on the part of the product manufacturer not to separate the product from the packaging design. In the short run it might be good for the producers’ pockets but in the longer run it will have a negative impact on the consumer as well as the environment thereby defeating the purpose of sustainable packaging.
  • Earlier the better: So now the question arises is how soon should a manufacturer involve designing the packaging? We say the sooner the better. Most of the environmental impact of the product & packaging is said to be determined in the early designing stages. To add sustainability factor at a later stage is not only hard but also costly and less effective.
  • More with less: While the supply chain demands ‘less’ in cost saving, reductions, simplifications etc, the market demands ‘more’ in terms of added value, benefits, new functions. Doing more with less is sustainability prerequisite.
Sometimes in providing ‘more’, more materials is used which in turn spells higher carbon footprints and is tricky to square off with sustainability. Ultimately it’s about ‘less is best’ for consumers& our customers. Sometimes striking a balance between them can be a challenge in sustainable packaging.
Sustainability challenges are linked with design challenges. Yet, creative and attractive designing is the only thing that can ultimately get a product noticed.
At Uflex Ltd., India’s largest flexible packaging company, the health and safety of our clients and our environment is paramount. All regulations regarding the preservation of the environment are met. Keeping in mind the evolving socio-cultural trends and environment conscious customers, Uflex has come up with sustainable packaging options accompanied by attractive designs to appeal to the customers. With experience and expertise in all spheres of packaging Uflex keeps a track of all the latest developments and innovations that are taking place around the world. This helps us to be in tandem with the needs of our customers and constantly upgrade our quality concerns.
Along with sustainable packaging options and striking design options, Uflex is committed to prevent the wastage of natural resources and minimize any hazardous impact on the environment during the stages of development, production, use and disposal.

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Packaging Trends to Look Forward in 2013



Last year had been a good one for the global flexible packaging industry. Emerging markets in Asia and Latin America led to a strong resurgence after the global recession, and it is projected that flexible packaging will be a $100 billion industry by 2016. 

This year, packaging industry players are looking forward to new efficiencies and economies of structure. Reorganizations, consolidations, lean manufacturing and sustainability are some of the measures they consider to tackle the current situation. Apart from this, flexible packaging industry is heavily relying on other areas such as performance metrics and looking more stringently at project proposals. 

Here we will discuss packaging trends to watch closely in 2013:

Smart Packaging: With changing lifestyles and consumers being more demanding, active and intelligent packaging focus more on consumer benefits such as food quality and safety, freshness and information rather than  specific retailer and manufacturer driven benefits.

Bio-Based Plastics: Recyclable PET made from renewable resource is projected to offer significant growth potential in long term. Hence the corporations involved in the soft drink industry, are investing heavily in the development of this material.

Stand-up Pouches: Bottles and cans have become the things of past. Stand-up pouches are preferred more because of their flexibility, sustainability and convenience. They are one of the most innovative marketing approaches to stimulate the sales of a stagnant brand.

Retail Ready Packaging (RRP), a method of packaging to make the products easier for the retailers to stock, continues to gain traction in North America more and more retailers have started to consider implementation, and others broaden the scope of existing initiatives into additional categories.

Social Media’s Role in Packaging: Marketing strategies are changing and internet continues to revolutionize how we find, buy, sell, and interact with brands and their products or services. While traditional marketing focused on pushing messages out, nowadays, it's more about getting found by customers. Hence, market players need to provide value and earning customer loyalty instead of simply conveying message to the consumers and hoping it will stick.

Along with this, packaging industry professionals must not ignore the consumer voice. Studying consumer culture will always reveal packaging trends and labeling needs in future. Considering the lifestyle changes and economic growth, Uflex Ltd. always follows a strategy with innovation, proximity to customers to provide better services and quick deliveries and focus on operational excellence.                                       

Monday, March 25, 2013

4 Players of Uflex Khelo Dilli Programme Selected for Asian Games 2014


·         Players selected for the second and final camp of Sepak Takraw (kick volleyball) Game
·         Players registered with Stairs sports center at  Majnu Ka Tilla as a part  of Uflex Khelo Dilli  programme
·         Mr. Ashok Chaturvedi, Chairman and M.D. of Uflex Ltd. felicitates players

New Delhi, March 28, 2013: Four young and talented Sepak Takraw (kick volleyball) players who have been selected for the second and final camp of the game in the Asian Game 2014, were accorded a warm felicitation by Mr. Ashok Chaturvedi, Chairman and MD of Uflex Ltd. India’s largest flexible packaging company. The players are registered with the Uflex Khelo Dilli  programme- a philanthropic endeavor jointly undertaken by Stairs, an NGO working towards sports, education & health for underprivileged children and Uflex Ltd.

Congratulating  the players, Mr. Ashok Chaturvedi, Chairman and M.D. of UFLEX Ltd said, “We would like to offer our warmest congratulations to all the four players and wish them luck in all future endeavours. India has a vast pool of sports talent, and the need is to tap this talent at the right time and provide them with the right training and facilities. Our association with Stairs represents an extension of our social commitment to bring about a positive change in the life of underprivileged youth of the society by providing them opportunities and a platform to showcase their talent.”

“We congratulate all the players selected for the Asian Games and would like to extend continued support to them. We are extremely happy with the response we are receiving for Uflex Khelo Dilli. The programme has created an atmosphere of participation, co-operation and team sprit amongst youth and encouraged more and more children to join”, said Mr. Siddhartha Upadhyay, Founder and Secretary General, Stairs .

Uflex Khelo Dilli aims to provide free of cost - space, infrastructure and sports equipment to the less fortunate children of our society, to play. More than 5000 underprivileged children are regularly playing at 28 different sports centers run by Stairs and funded by Uflex Ltd., across Delhi. These centres have emerged as a hub of recreation for children from low economic background and ignited a passion for playing in others as evident from an increasing number of children getting enrolled at these centres.

Apart from Khelo Dilli, Uflex Ltd. has also adopted cricket initiatives of Stairs, namely, Uflex Stairs Cricket Championship and Uflex Stairs Cricket Scholarship. Uflex Ltd. supports Stairs in running cricket training academies, providing sports scholarship and sports gear to the underprivileged children. Since 2011, 72 talented children have been granted the Uflex Stairs Cricket Scholarship and are being training at accredited cricket centres in Delhi.

Since inception, Stairs has actively worked towards the upliftment of the less fortunate children mainly through the field of sports. The sporting initiatives of Stairs aim to provide a platform to these children to hone their skills and showcase their talent through sports camps. Stairs understands the amount of talent that exists among these children and believes in creating opportunities so that their talent is rightly tapped and nurtured. Talented children are chosen from these camps and provided coaching, sports scholarship and sports gear.

Some of the students who identified by Stairs are already doing well at the national level and are earning laurels for their states. Stairs also organizes sports camps at regular intervals to promote youth talent.

About Stairs:

Stairs (www.stairs.org.in) is a non-profit organization working in the field of development of underprivileged youth through channelization of their energies in sports and education. Since its inception in 2005, Stairs has worked for the upliftment of the less fortunate children mainly through the field of sports. The sporting initiatives undertaken by Stairs provide a platform to these children to hone their skills and showcase their talent through sports camps. Stairs understands the amount of talent that exists among these children and believes in creating opportunities to tap and nurture their talent.