Packaging industry sees e-commerce driving next growth phase

As it completes 50 years on May 14, the Indian Institute of Packaging (IIP), an autonomous body under the commerce and industry ministry, sees the next phase of growth for the $25 billion (Rs.1.5 trillion) industry coming from e-commerce, as more traditional retailers also take to online selling.

In the process, the institute, which since its inception has focused on research, education and export promotion, also sees much demand for students pursuing the trade. The institute, accordingly, will see see inauguration of a innovation centre and the ground breaking for a new hostel.

Also at the commemorative celebrations will be the unveiling of a new logo crafted by the National Institute of Design.

"The institute has come a long way since its inception in 1966. It's a proud moment for us. What started with one centre in Mumbai has now expanded to Delhi, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Chennai and Bangalore. We're in the process of setting up campuses in Guwahati and Vijaywada," said IIP director N.C. Saha.

According to the institute, its students were in great demand, particularly with fast-moving consumer goods and pharmaceutical companies that have recognized the positive cost and brand implications of packaging. 

Notable among the recruiters are Hindustan Unilever, Mendelez International (Cadbury's), Nestle India, Bayer India, Reckitt Benckiser, PepsiCo, Marico, lupin limited and Ranbaxy, "With so many retailers now selling goods online, e-commerce has made packaging more specialized than before."

The institute also said the $24.6 billion market, which was growing at is about 13-15 percent had a great potential as India’s per capita consumption of packaging was just 4.3 kg, compared with 6 kg for China and 19 kg for Taiwan.

The celebrations will extend to the whole year with special events planned across various centres. The events planned include seminars, exhibitions, conferences and alumni-organised interactions at the Delhi, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Chennai and Mumbai centres.

The chief guests for the inaugural function are Maharashtra Governor Vidyasagar Rao, scientist R.A. Mashelkar and Commerce Ministry Additional Secretary Rajani Ranjan Rashmi.

As a part of the celebrations, the institute will also host its 6th international packaging exhibition, Indiapack 2015, from October 8 to 11 at the Bombay Exhibition Centre. The highlight of the exhibition includes the World Packaging Congress (WPC) and an international and sellers meet