This article first appeared in the February 2025 issue of ProPack.pro

Ali Farid and Shaleen MacGregor, the business partners behind PakPro at Silverwater, NSW, are testing their transferrable skillsets by recently becoming entrepreneurs in the packaging industry. Having recently taken ownership of PakPro at the end of 2023, the duo has a strategic plan in place to scale the business to new heights.

PakPro, formerly known as Packaging Processors, has been a trusted name in the packaging industry since the 1980s. Over the four decades that it has been in operation, despite the change in ownership, it has provided – and continues to provide – a high level of service to customers and has maintained a strong reputation within the industry.

PakPro’s focus remains on delivering trade finishing by providing a diverse and high expertise in cutting, folding, and gluing services. This includes die cutting, window patching, folding and gluing (straight line, sleeves, crashlock, pillow pack, wallets, and folders), as well as machine double sided taping.

The business also offers consultation to its customers in optimising packaging design and sourcing tooling, and prides itself in being able to provide fast quoting and conversion turnarounds in the industry.

Its customers are wide ranging – from cardboard packaging suppliers to digital printers offering small volume custom boxes, envelopes and key card holders.

PakPro has had the privilege of working on a variety of impactful projects for its clients – from consulting with complicated designs to streamlining trade finishes, rushed orders and new product launches. At the same time, the business has supported customers during their transitional period of site relocations, resources shortages, peak periods capacity, and regular support.

Farid and MacGregor entered the packaging industry and took over the operations of PakPro after holding director level positions at large FMCG multinationals.

Farid’s background in engineering and more than 20 years of extensive experience in the operations and commercial fields has enabled his engagement with customers, resulting in business partnerships and quality service commitments.

MacGregor’s finance qualification and more than 20 years of expertise in compliance, financial and risk strategy, legal and compliance, and stakeholder management has enabled the re-engineering of PakPro from being a traditional business into the current operational/commercial environment it is today.

Farid and MacGregor’s immediate focus for PakPro is to bring awareness to the packaging and printing industries of its core and exclusive capabilities and services at a wider scale.

“We want to showcase to the market the reasons for choosing PakPro as their first choice for trade finishing. We also intend to invest in technology and software to increase our response to market,” Farid said.

“Medium- to long-term, we plan to position PakPro as the solution for business continuity planning, making us the business partner and outsourcing and contract manufacturer of choice for printing/packaging companies and brokers in the industry.”

Trends shaping business direction

The packaging industry is no different to other industries and is undergoing significant disruption driven by sustainability, technology, and changing consumer preferences. Key trends impacting the operations of PakPro include:

Eco-friendly packaging: With increased consumer and regulatory pressure to reduce plastic and waste, Farid and MacGregor find there is a clear demand for biodegradable, recyclable, and compostable packaging solutions which creative cardboard packaging businesses can continue to thrive in.

“As more businesses prioritise eco- friendly alternatives, we’ve seen an increasing interest in recyclable and biodegradable packaging solutions – a trend we are actively supporting by transitioning from plastic to cardboard containers for food service and retail,” Farid said.

“In addition, the beauty segment has seen new entrepreneurs emerging with innovative, sustainable packaging.”

Smart packaging: The integration of digital technologies such as QR codes, tracking systems, and anti-counterfeit solutions, which is revolutionising the way businesses manage and engage with their packaging.

Automation and efficiency: Businesses are seeking automated packaging solutions to reduce costs, improve productivity, and minimise waste.

E-commerce and cashflow: Many packaging and printing companies continue to operate using traditional business models. By integrating e-commerce platforms and payment gateways, businesses can enhance agility, streamline operations, and significantly reduce outstanding collections, improving overall cash flow efficiency.

“At PakPro, we’re embracing these trends by staying ahead of technological advancements and sourcing sustainable solutions that align with our clients’ goals. We’re committed to helping businesses navigate this changing landscape and aim to implement solutions that will future- proof their operations,” Farid said.