Packaging innovation meets opportunity: Printcare’s Kenyan expansion

Printcare Chairman K.R. Ravindran 

Printcare, a regional leader in packaging industry, has ventured into Kenya, marking its second overseas investment after India. This strategic expansion is driven by Kenya’s rapidly growing economy and demand for high-quality packaging for key exports such as tea, horticulture, and apparel. Printcare’s new facility aims to uplift local communities through job creation, skills development, and world-class packaging solutions that enhance export competitiveness for African businesses. With a strong local partnership and a focus on innovation, the company underscores its commitment to delivering excellence while repatriating profits to Sri Lanka.

In this insightful conversation, Printcare Chairman K.R. Ravindran, shares his perspectives on the company’s journey, challenges, and vision for the future in Africa.

Q: Printcare is known in Sri Lanka for its professionalism and high quality in the packaging sector. Are you the best company in this field in this country or even in South Asia?

 I would not say that. There are others who are equally good and competent. In any case, I would hate to call ourselves the best, the biggest, the most well-known, etc. I often introduce myself as the Manager of a small printing company!

Q: You have made a significant investment in Kenya. Is this your first overseas venture?

 No. We have a well-positioned company in India that dominates India’s tea bag packaging market. Kenya will be our second overseas investment.

Q: Why did you go to Kenya and why Africa?

 In many respects, Kenya reflects where we were several years ago while leading us in others. It is one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa, benefiting from preferential duty treatment for its products in the US and several other countries. Kenya’s main exports include tea, horticulture, apparel, and coffee, all of which require top-tier packaging to enhance appeal. Additionally, the East African community was a significant attraction.

Q: What are the obstacles you face there, and what are the impediments to such overseas investments?

Like any project, especially one overseas, there will always be challenges. This factory exemplifies what can be achieved when vision aligns with execution, when challenges are perceived as opportunities, and when partnerships are established on trust and shared values. 

However, I must say that the local authorities were very welcoming. We have a great factory, and all the workers speak English. There were no issues we couldn’t resolve. From our perspective, the biggest challenge was transferring our own funds. We are restricted from transferring even our dollar earnings except on a limited basis. The Government needs to address this.

Q: What benefits does our own country get in such overseas expansion?

First, it significantly enhances a country’s image when, in our case, a Sri Lankan company establishes one of the best packaging plants in Africa, capable of producing world-class quality. Second, it enables us to attract top professionals from other countries, automatically benefiting our local workforce. Third, we are repatriating profits back home, making it a wise investment. 

Q: Is the company a fully owned subsidiary of Printcare PLC? 

 Yes, we have a 70% stake in the business. We have a minority partner from Tanzania. The Karimjee Jivanjee group is well-connected in Sri Lanka, reputable, and honourable. They will add significant value to the company and its Board with their connections and knowledge of East Africa. Their operations span multiple sectors and industries, and they have substantial experience working with various partners. 

Q: What type of packaging will you do in Africa?

 We will manufacture premium mono cartons, corrugated boxes, tea bag packaging, and high-quality paper bags for the US market. We will also adapt to customers’ specific needs.

Q: How will Kenya or Africa benefit from the quality packaging you will offer?

 First and foremost, it will elevate the quality of packaging available across Africa.

Good packaging not only protects products but also enhances their appearance. Making them more appealing to customers and increasing their marketability in a competitive environment. Second, good packaging is a powerful driver of economic growth. High-quality packaging is essential for exports. By boosting the quality of packaging, we will enable African businesses to expand their exports. 

But the impact goes far beyond the packaging itself. This facility will uplift the local community. We are committed to creating sustainable employment opportunities, providing skills training, and empowering individuals.

Printcare in Africa

Printcare Plc Board members