As head of India’s leading and popular stationery brand SOLO, Amit Gupta (Managing Director, Filex Systems Pvt Ltd) is charting new terrains of this Delhi based enterprise by diversifying into world-class premium offerings in writing instruments and a host of other modern lifestyle products that are a signature statement in themselves. SOLO, born out of Amit Gupta's sheer passion of changing the perception of office stationery in India, is today one stop solution for every office need. In this interview, Amit Gupta gives an insight into India’s stationery market and the company’s growth plans.

 

 

How would you define the category of stationery products?

 

Personally, I would define stationery as a segment that enhances presentation and storage of information. They not only organise your work space, but also increase efficiency and quality of work. It is becoming harder to communicate to the layman that the products industry leaders across verticals are coming up with is based on knowledge and expertise garnered over several decades. Yet we embrace the challenge and continue R&D on new products.

 

What is the impact of technology on the office accessories market? 

 

We have over 20 years of experience in a wide range of office stationery and accessories that includes files and folders, visual communication tools, writing stationery, laptop accessories, desktop organizers, notebooks and pouches etc, making our brand a one stop solution for every office need. Although, we have been fortunate to have a steady growth trajectory, we have faced new challenges, compelling us to explore new avenues. Visual communication, smart boards, digital dependency have drastically reduced need and demand for conventional stationery.

 

How is the dynamics of the office accessories market changing?

 

The stationery landscape has shifted over the last decade and with increasing number of small players entering the industry, profitability in the volume driven market can be achieved through being more cost effective for the masses while continuing to create innovative products for the niche audience. Family consumption of stationery is reducing and becoming increasingly price sensitive, but we see the increasing preference for premium office accessories, especially in the newer generation, which is a positive sign. We are excited about the next 5 years, with the industry set to go through some changes.

 

How do you ascertain visibility for your products in the market? Are there any plans to foray into new product range? 

 

These are exciting times for us at SOLO! We have entered the premium-luxury stationery category with our partnership with the German brand Intellio. At the same time we continuing to be a brand for the masses, we are entering the FMCG space with the launch of our food packaging solutions with US FDA compliant food wrapping and baking paper. In our existing vertical, we are year on year growing exports and making SOLO a global brand name. Middle East has been an area of focus for us, amongst other SAARC countries. Starting 2020, we plan to enter the European markets as well. Our relationships with retailers alongside our marketing ensure we are accessible by all.

 

What are your growth plans for Filex?

 

This family business is an interesting mix of conventional experience, contemporary outlook and futuristic approach. My two sons have an education background from premium global institutions. My elder son, Ashutosh has taken on the onus of marketing division and younger son, Naman is heading new business initiatives and brand development giving a fresh lease of life to the enterprise. I repose complete faith in their capabilities in taking the brand global and to each household back home, for the masses and for elite. 

 

(Communication provided by the management of the company)