Trident Group, with the philosophy of “staying ahead of the market”, is focusing on technological upgrades and sustainability. The company has recently announced an investment of INR 2,000 crore in its paper and textile businesses. Trident has developed a new range of copier paper and maplitho with unique properties. By collaborating with leading technology providers, the company continues to stay ahead of the competition. Mr. Rajnish Kumar Gera, CEO – Paper & Energy, Trident Group, shares insights into the company’s sustainability initiatives and how it is breaking myths about paper through responsible manufacturing.
Paper Mart: Can you tell us about your new product range, copier and maplitho? What inspired its creation?
Rajnish Kumar Gera: The philosophy of Trident Group is to stay ahead of the market. With data and feedback from the market, we have developed a new range of copier paper and maplitho paper with quality required for specific applications. Some of our maplitho papers- diamond line, gold line, titanium line, and super line, are extensively used in printing and publishing houses. Its versatility and high-quality finish makes it a preferred choice for various printing needs, ensuring crisp and vibrant results every time.
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PM: Trident has announced a major investment recently. Could you tell us more about it?
RKG: Our Chairman Emeritus, Mr. Rajinder Gupta, has announced an investment of INR 2,000 crore. Paper is an important part of this investment, alongside textiles. A significant share will go toward strengthening our paper business, helping us stay ahead in the market.
The focus is on technological upgrades and sustainability. This includes reducing steam, power, and water consumption, increasing automation digital controls, and upgrading and rebuilding our paper machines. All these initiatives aim to enhance sustainability and product quality.
One major challenge is increased imports, which put pressure on market prices. On top of it there is a huge increase in raw material prices, which makes it difficult for the mills to sustain their margins.
PM: What kind of technology partners does Trident work with?
RKG: We have always believed in adopting state-of-the-art technology. Currently, our pulp mill is with Valmet, and our paper machine is from Allimand, France. We consistently collaborate with the best global technology partners.
Our Chairman Emeritus, Mr. Rajinder Gupta, has announced an investment of INR 2,000 crore. Paper is an important part of this investment, alongside textiles. A significant share will go toward strengthening our paper business, helping us stay ahead in the market.
PM: There are several myths around sustainability in paper manufacturing. How does Trident address them?
RKG: Trident has always initiated its manufacturing processes sustainably. We use wheat straw, which is a highly sustainable raw material, and focus on reducing water, steam, and power consumption while recycling most of the water. We aim to break the myth that paper is not environmentally friendly. We aim to create awareness that the paper is made sustainably and hence our tagline “the good paper.”
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PM: How do you view the current state of the Indian paper industry? What, according to you, are challenges and opportunities?
RKG: The paper industry is going through a tough time with global uncertainties and rising imports. So ups and downs are inevitable. What matters is an organisation’s strength and process capability to withstand these challenges. Trident is well-equipped and supported by strong business associates to navigate this phase.
One major challenge is increased imports, which put pressure on market prices. On top of it, there is a huge increase in raw material prices, which makes it difficult for the mills to sustain their margins. Companies that focus on reducing manufacturing costs, building a trusted brand, and emphasizing sustainability will survive and grow.
I would also like to add that there are a lot of opportunities and headway available for us, and with the kind of quality, brand, and serviceability that Trident has, we see a very good potential to grow in the paper market.
The focus is on technological upgrades and sustainability. This includes reducing steam, power, and water consumption, increasing automation and digital controls, and upgrading and rebuilding our paper machines.
