“I Create New Products, Find New Ideas, Make and Test Prototypes” – Pawan Khake
02 August 2024: Pawan Khake, the NextGen – New Product Development Manager at Unique Labels (P) Ltd. Pune shares his role, Vision, Observations of Industry Potential and Recent Developments.
Q: What is your educational background ? Did you consciously opt for a labels and printing industry-related course ?
I have a strong background in Printing Technology. After finishing school at 16, I completed a 3-year diploma course and a 3-year Bachelor of Engineering course in printing and graphics communication.
I studied my diploma and bachelor’s degree at Pune Vidyarthi Griha’s College, affiliated with Pune University. This university is one of only two in Maharashtra, offering a print technology course.
Later, I earned a 2-year Master of Science degree in Print Media from the R.I.T. (Rochester Institute of Technology) in New York.
During my Master’s course, I had the incredible opportunity to intern as an Innovation Technologist at Nike HQ in Portland, Oregon. This experience was the catalyst for my career, immersing me in a world of cutting-edge technology and creative problem-solving. Following this, I worked for a year as a Prepress Graphic Artist and then for three years as an Artwork Project Manager in New Jersey. As an international student, each step in my academic and professional journey although challenging at times has profoundly shaped my career and personal growth.
Q: What was your thought process about career options initially; did you visualize yourself becoming a part of Unique Labels at that stage ?
Since I was a child, I’ve always loved art, painting, and aesthetics. I even took part in state-level art competitions and exams. When it came time to choose a career, my first choice was to go into printing technology. My other option was to become a commercial artist because of my strong interest in art.
The printing course is perfect for anyone who likes both art and technology. My family has been running a screen printing business in Pune since 1990, which made me naturally interested in this field. Combining my love for art and my family’s background in printing, I was drawn to this study area.
Q: You have recently joined the family business; how would you describe your role and responsibilities ?
I chose my designation as NPD (New Product Development) Manager. As the New Product Development Manager in screen printing, I create new products from start to finish. I look at market trends and customer needs to find new ideas. I work with design and engineering teams to make and test prototypes, using the best materials and techniques. I also work with suppliers to get the best materials at good prices, keeping our products affordable. I make sure projects stay on time and within budget. I keep up with industry trends to keep us ahead. Additionally, I assist the HR department by posting new job vacancies online and interviewing candidates.
Q: What are the changes or additions that you are looking forward to introducing at Unique Labels including fresh approach to thinking, modern mindset, enthusiasm, technology awareness, etc. ?
At Unique Labels, I want to encourage employees to embrace ERP systems, reducing our reliance on paper documentation and improving workflows in inventory management, prepress, production, purchase, quality systems and accounts. I also advocate for more formal communication methods like emails, Microsoft Teams and video calls with distant clients. Adopting a flexible mindset towards technological advancements is crucial, as technology evolves rapidly. This openness will benefit both the company’s growth and personal development.
Q: You recently visited drupa 2024; what were your key learnings from the experience ?
The previous version of drupa back in 2016, I was amazed by the technological advancements in printing. This time, Drupa 2024 showcased even greater progress, indicating a shift towards hybrid digital printing over traditional methods. Automation has significantly reduced the need for manpower, with robotic arms now handling tasks like lifting extremely heavy paper bundles and organizing them for next steps in production. Magnetic levitation conveyors can be the future since they efficiently move items through complex workflows, saving space compared to older machinery.
Artificial Intelligence is not the future anymore; it is present ! AI, already thriving in smartphones and entertainment industries, is now revolutionizing printing industry. Companies like Heidelberg use AI to streamline workflows urging everyone in industry to integrate AI in their systems in some form or another.
Q: How do you see the label printing industry developing moving forward ?
The label printing industry will continue to innovate, driven by technological advancements, sustainability goals, and the need for greater efficiency and customization.
Q: What factors will be driving its future direction and demand ?
Some notable points to look forward in the industry would be digital printing dominance, sustainability focus, automation and AI integration, advanced materials and inks, hybrid printing solutions, enhanced design capabilities.
Q: How do you see Unique Labels gearing up for that with you having joined your parents ?
Quality checks and assurance are the backbone of any company. For a small business like ours, adding new quality systems can be tough, but we’re committed to it. We aim to earn top quality standards certifications to show our dedication. We’re also excited about using sustainable energy sources. This will help us save on energy costs in the long run and be more environmentally friendly. By focusing on quality and sustainability, we’re building a strong and future-ready business.
In the future, as our business grows, we might consider adding project management tools. These tools will help keep all stakeholders updated with the status of the job, communicating artwork changes and KPI’s in real-time.
Q: How would you describe your parents as entrepreneurs and business founder-managers ? What are the qualities that you have imbibed from both your parents about managing a business ?
My father is a hardworking man who took calculated risks. Coming from a small town in Maharashtra with no business background, he built a successful printing company in Pune. He excels at building strong relationships with clients and suppliers, which has been key to his success staying relevant in the industry for 35 years and currently having 150 employees.
My mother, as the HR head, is very organized and values cleanliness and hygiene. She makes sure that everyone in the company follows these standards, believing that a clean workspace leads to a positive and focused atmosphere. Their efforts have created a workplace where some employees have been with us for more than 15-25 years. I aspire to learn from their dedication and values as I grow and navigate my own path. Their story teaches me the importance of hard work, organization, and strong relationships in achieving success
Q: A Key Representative from 3M Recently visited Unique Labels; What is the Significance of that Interaction ?
Tushar Kshirsagar, President of 3M’s Adhesives and Tapes division in St. Paul, Minnesota, USA, recently visited our company during his tour of India. Accompanied by Vinay Rao (3M Senior Manager), Prafull Pathak, (3M regional sales manager), and Vinayak Kulkarni (Sales and Business Development) explored all departments of our facility, including our processes and machinery. He expressed admiration for our advanced printing techniques and equipment and the dedication of our employees in upholding high standards.
During the visit, there was enthusiasm about introducing new innovative products from 3M, which could enhance the quality of our own products. This visit underscores the strong, longstanding relationship between Unique Labels and 3M, spanning over 30 years. It serves as a testament to our ongoing collaboration and mutual commitment to further strengthen our partnership in the future.
www.uniquelabels.co.in
