EXPACK CORRUGATED CARTONS
Q: How has your organisation fared in the corrugated cartons business given the challenges in the corporate landscape since the emergence of the pandemic?
A: Expack Corrugated Cartons has performed quite admirably in the past. We have managed to consolidate our position as a market leader in the corrugated cartons sector despite the fierce competition.
We enjoyed an impressive financial year in 2020 amid the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Expack adapted and morphed its organisational structure to better enable it to contend with the requirements of the ‘new normal.’
The company witnessed the emergence of new and advantageous opportunities during the crisis – particularly in markets such as the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) and courier sectors, and online business.
In my assessment, Expack has recorded consistent and reasonable growth that enables the company to increase its market share organically. Our core strategy is to create constant value for every customer – predominantly in B2B markets. This is achieved by offering quality packaging solutions that enhance the value of the end product.
Competitive pricing, on time delivery and personalised customer service ensure that customers enjoy value for the money they spend. The competitive advantage earned through this strategy enables Expack to retain and identify new potential customers.
Q: What are the main components of a ‘great workplace,’ in your opinion? And how has Expack looked to foster such a culture?
A: The company has achieved commercial success as a thriving enterprise by serving as a home to a highly motivated workforce, emphasising and focussing on CSR by displaying concern for the locality surrounding the factory, and acting for environmental preservation even before being recognised by Great Place to Work for four consecutive years.
It follows that the effective implementation of this deliberate and strategic approach has ensured that a great place to work is created for all our employees.
Expack considers its employees to be the company’s greatest asset. As such, a special workplace that offers above average compensation and rewards – with an enjoyable working environment emphasising the balance of work and family life – is created on their behalf.
Additionally, sources for empowerment and opportunities for career progression are available in abundance within our premises.
Facilitating proper training and development, showing respect and concern for their welfare, and providing every worker due recognition act as contributing factors in creating a great workplace.
Q: In what ways can the senior management promote an open and engaging culture?
A: The senior management team and shareholders play an active role in creating a conducive work culture at Expack. The premise behind the phrase ‘you cannot clap with one hand’ is empowering them as decision makers.
Senior management and the corporate team work closely, to formulate and oversee the effective implementation of corporate strategies. These strategies are monitored and constantly evaluated to ensure that the desired intent is accomplished.
This team works closely with all levels of the hierarchy and various functional departments across the enterprise to support this strategic approach. Specific cultural attributes – and the advantages of communication, teamwork, mutual respect, greater understanding and trust, recognition and celebration – have been identified as important factors.
Similar attributes led to the creation of a high-performance team that worked towards accomplishing great feats over the past decade.
