Parason has introduced a comprehensive range of paper-based tableware products designed to meet the needs of various sectors. Its product lines are catered to sectors such as food service, retail, hospitality and cosmetics, to mention some. In India, urban centers like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, and Kolkata are where its products enjoy strong demand. Countries in Europe, North America, and parts of Asia-Pacific, with mature markets for eco-friendly products, present lucrative opportunities for expansion, says Mr. Madhure S. Desarda, the company’s Director.
Paper Mart: What factors encouraged you to enter the paper-based tableware market? How are you positioned today?
Madhure S. Desarda: With growing concerns for environmental impact, there’s a rising demand for eco-friendly alternatives to plastic tableware. Today, paper-based products are often seen as more sustainable as they are biodegradable and can be made from renewable resources. Secondly, regulatory pressures on bans or restrictions on single-use plastics have created opportunities. Consumer preferences is another dimension, as consumers today increasingly seek products that align with their values. Additionally, market opportunity offered by the present untapped potential for growth and profitability is another major factor.
PM: Give us a brief on the product range you have introduced. How much has it diversified?
MD: Our company has introduced a comprehensive range of paper-based tableware products designed to meet the needs of various sectors. Our product lines are catered to sectors such as food service, retail, hospitality and cosmetics. Overall, the product range in the tableware industry has diversified significantly across various sectors to meet the diverse needs of consumers, businesses, and industries while also emphasizing sustainability and eco-friendliness.
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PM: Where in India do your products enjoy strong demand? What new markets are you eyeing?
MD: In India, urban centers like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, and Kolkata are where our products enjoy strong demand due to their large populations and increasing focus on eco-friendly alternatives. Internationally, countries in Europe, North America, and parts of Asia-Pacific, with mature markets for eco-friendly products, present lucrative opportunities for expansion in the molded fiber industry. Additionally, we believe that exploring emerging markets in regions like Southeast Asia and Latin America, where environmental consciousness is on the rise, could be beneficial.
As for new markets, the focus is both urban areas with growing environmental consciousness and rural regions where there’s a need for affordable and sustainable solutions. Additionally, exploring partnerships with businesses in the food and beverage industry, such as restaurants, cafes, and catering services, can open up new market opportunities.
When it comes to adoption level in India, it may still be in its early stages compared to other regions. However, the trend is definitely positive.
PM: What is your production capacity? Assuming increased market demand, how much will it change?
MD: Parason production capacity is currently set at one project per month, which includes manufacturing 6-12 machines, complete stock preparation tanks, auxiliaries, and offering complete turnkey project solutions. I
PM: Please discuss the retail/distribution strategy you have adopted. In terms of acceptance, how would you describe adoption of paper-based tableware in India?
MD: In addition to online channels, we partner with brick-and-mortar retail stores, supermarkets, and specialty stores across various cities and towns. This helps us cater to customers who prefer to shop offline or may not have access to online shopping facilities. We work closely with distributors and wholesalers to ensure our products are available in key retail outlets nationwide. When it comes to adoption level in India, it may still be in its early stages compared to other regions. However, the trend is definitely positive.
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PM: What innovation/s have you introduced that have worked as a game changer for you? Please discuss.
MD: Automatic, Robotic and Prototype machines for R&D and Barrier Coating Project with Indo-German Science & Technology Centre (IGSTC) at IIT Roorkee are the game changers.
PM: Give us a view of the paper-based tableware market, in terms of growth and future, in India.
MD: The paper-based tableware market in India has been experiencing significant growth in recent years, primarily driven by increasing environmental concerns and a shift towards sustainable alternatives to plastic and Styrofoam products. As awareness about the detrimental effects of plastic pollution grows, consumers are increasingly seeking eco-friendly options, which has boosted the demand for paper-based tableware.
