Gen Z’s Drive For Reusability, Sustainability Reshaping India’s Packaging Market, Says AGI Greenpac CEO

AGI Greenpac is India's leading packaging products company, engaged in the production of an extensive array of packaging solutions that include glass containers, specialty glass, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles, and security caps and closures. The company operates through three key divisions: AGI Glaspac, which specializes in high-quality glass containers tailored for the food, pharmaceutical, and beverage industries; AGI Plastek, dedicated to manufacturing PET bottles and related products, with production facilities strategically located in Telangana, Karnataka, and Uttarakhand; and AGI Clozures, which focuses on the production of secure caps and closures for the alcohol and beverage sectors, particularly emphasizing anti-counterfeit measures. In an exclusive interview with Bizz Buzz, Rajesh Khosla, CEO, AGI Greenpac talks about how AGI Greenpac is committed to delivering customised packaging solutions that cater to the specific needs of its clients. The company's specialty plant in Bhongir is renowned for producing premium glass packaging designed for sectors like cosmetics, perfumery, and candles, reinforcing AGI's reputation for quality and innovation in the packaging industry

Tell us about AGI Greenpac?

AGI Greenpac Limited began its journey in 1981 with the acquisition of AGI Glaspac, where we started manufacturing glass products under the brand name AGI Glaspac. Recognizing the evolving needs of the market, the company strategically diversified their product portfolio, adding PET bottles and counterfeit caps and closures to their offerings. This expansion positioned AGI to cater to a wider range of packaging requirements. Today, AGI Greenpac is a comprehensive packaging products company.

Today, AGI Greenpac operates seven state-of-the-art manufacturing plants across India, ensuring efficient delivery of high-quality packaging solutions. Committed to quality, innovation, sustainability, and customer service, AGI Greenpac is a trusted partner for over 500 institutional clients globally seeking reliable packaging solutions.

How is AGI Greenpac rethinking food packaging? How sustainable choices are revolutionising diets worldwide?

AGI Greenpac is dedicated to creating innovative packaging solutions that prioritize environmental sustainability while ensuring product safety and freshness. By optimizing packaging design, we aim to reduce material usage, enhance product protection, and promote recyclability. Our focus on light weighting, sustainable materials, and barrier properties helps to extend shelf life, reduce food waste, and minimize the environmental impact of packaging.

Consumers are increasingly aware of the environmental and social impacts of their food choices. This growing consciousness is driving a significant shift towards sustainable food consumption. People are prioritizing local and seasonal produce to support local farmers, reduce food miles, and minimize the carbon footprint associated with food transportation. Additionally, consumers are actively avoiding single-use plastic and demanding that companies and brands adopt more sustainable packaging materials, such as glass. These collective efforts are contributing to a more sustainable and resilient food system, reducing waste, conserving resources, and promoting biodiversity.

How is AGI Greenpac addressing Gen Z's demand for environment friendliness?

Gen Z, known for their environmental consciousness and emphasis on sustainability, is driving a demand for sustainable and innovative packaging. Over the years, we have significantly increased our use of cullet, a recycled form of glass, in our glass manufacturing processes. By incorporating cullet, we reduce our reliance on virgin raw materials, minimize energy consumption, and contribute to a circular economy. Additionally, we are actively exploring ways to create lightweight glass packaging, which minimizes energy consumption during production and transportation. To enhance transparency, we provide clear information about the sustainability of our glass packaging, including the percentage of recycled content.

How is Gen Z's demand for reusable and sustainable food packaging reshaping India's food market and transforming Indian brands?

Gen Z's increasing awareness of environmental issues is significantly transforming India's food market by driving demand for reusable and sustainable packaging, influenced by busy lifestyles, urbanization, and purpose-driven consumption. Furthermore, as consumer preferences shift towards ready-to-eat (RTE) foods, brands are addressing hygiene and logistics challenges through effective design and communication. By sourcing ingredients locally and utilizing advanced packaging technologies, companies are reducing carbon emissions and enhancing freshness.

How is India's shift to sustainable food packaging inspiring global change and shaping global sustainability through innovations?

Indian companies are adopting sustainable packaging solutions, including the increased use of glass, a highly recyclable and reusable material. Businesses in India are leading initiatives that focus on sustainable packaging, promoting practices such as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and the Plastic Waste Management Rules, which not only impact local markets but also set benchmarks for other countries.

Furthermore, India's commitment to sustainability is reflected in global forums and partnerships, where the country advocates for sustainable development goals and shares insights from its innovations. As a result, India is shaping global conversations around sustainability, demonstrating that localized solutions can have far-reaching impacts.

While India has made significant strides in this area, there is still room for further innovation and adoption of sustainable practices. By continuing to develop and implement sustainable packaging solutions, India can play a leading role in shaping a more sustainable global food system.

What is India’s contribution to a safer food future? How innovative packaging is helping to reduce waste and increase access?

India's commitment to food safety is evident in its robust packaging and labelling controls. By emphasizing accurate ingredient lists, clear allergen warnings, and tamper-evident packaging, these controls protect consumers, safeguard brand reputation, and foster trust. The increasing prevalence of food allergies worldwide and in India underscores the importance of such measures. QR codes, a technology gaining popularity, offer a valuable tool for providing comprehensive product information without cluttering packaging.To further enhance food safety, India is taking proactive steps. These include strengthening food safety regulations, investing in infrastructure for testing and inspection, promoting public awareness campaigns, and fostering international collaboration. These efforts collectively contribute to a safer food future, ensuring that consumers have access to safe and reliable food products.

Innovative packaging is helping to reduce waste and increase access through various strategies. Government regulations, such as the Plastic Waste Management Rules and the Extended Producer Responsibility framework, are encouraging eco-friendly practices. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has established regulations to ensure packaging materials meet national and international standards. Major players in the FMCG sector are leading the charge with specific products that demonstrate these innovations. As the industry evolves, the focus will remain on sustainable practices, aiming for a circular economy in packaging.