Reflecting on the past decade, managing director Gerald Padayachee shares the company’s journey, innovations and vision for the future. ‘When we first started, we had almost no money,’ he recalls. ‘People said we wouldn’t make it, giving us a maximum of 12 months to survive. It’s been 10 years, and we’re stronger than ever.’
Despite early challenges, Prism Inks has thrived, retaining nearly all of its customers. Gerald attributes their success to a profound understanding of ink and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. ‘We’re ink technicians who happen to own a business,’ he quips.
Prism Inks’ journey has been marked by significant growth and development. ‘Our production has grown twentyfold since we began,’ he comments. ‘We’ve expanded our staff, premises and have ink dispensers running in both Johannesburg and Cape Town.’ This steady growth is a testament to the company’s resilience and dedication.
The company is led by a trio of directors: Gerald, administration director Kirsten Padayachee and technical director Kenneth Johnston. Kenneth attributes Prism Inks’ success to robust leadership, a solution-driven strategy and a unified dedication to the company’s goals. ‘We’ve been fortunate to have the unwavering support of remarkable customers during challenging periods. Our suppliers have significantly contributed to building the strong foundation we stand on today,’ Kenneth explains. He commends Prism Inks’ staff for their extraordinary bravery and dedication over the years, emphasising that it has truly been a team effort.
Innovation at the core
Innovation has been at the core of Prism Inks’ success. Gerald emphasises the team’s bespoke approach: ‘We focus on cost-saving, not cost reduction.
Our philosophy is if we can make our customers more efficient, that efficiency will cover their ink bill.’ This customer-centric approach, coupled with cutting-edge technology, has set Prism Inks apart. ‘While our technology might seem complex, there’s an underlying simplicity for customers,’ he explains.
Sustainability is integral to Prism Inks’ operations. ‘We adhere to all European regulations and standards, ensuring our products are eco-friendly.’ As the industry shifts towards greener practices, Prism Inks remains committed to operating a sustainable business, continuously exploring new enviro-conscious initiatives.
Customer relationships have been a cornerstone of Prism Inks’ success. ‘Our niche is tailoring solutions for our customers, making our products from scratch to meet their specific needs.’ This personalised approach has fostered strong, enduring relationships with customers across the continent.
The print and packaging industry is constantly evolving and Prism Inks is at the forefront of these changes. ‘We’re seeing great growth in the corrugated board and bag and sacks market,’ remarks Gerald. ‘Our ability to adapt to new substrates and printing technologies ensures we remain competitive and relevant.’
Looking ahead, Gerald envisions continued growth and innovation for Prism Inks. ‘Our key goals are to expand our product range and maintain our commitment to sustainability,’ he says. ‘We want to continue making our customers more efficient and environmentally conscious.’
Celebrating this milestone is a moment of pride for Gerald and his team. ‘We’ve come so far,’ he reflects. ‘We’re grateful to our suppliers, customers and staff who have supported us through good times and bad. Surviving Covid-19 without laying off a single person was a significant achievement. We saw it as an opportunity for growth.’
For Kenneth, Prism Inks’ anniversary is a celebration of everyone who has dedicated their energy and time to personal and professional growth within the company. ‘Many individuals inspired us by pushing us to reach our full potential. We’re also fortunate to have the opportunity to encourage others to surpass our achievements and excel even further,’ he says.
We fully support Prism Inks and their impressive growth, recognising them as an expert and reliable supplier in the corrugated industry.”
As Prism Inks South Africa commemorates its 10th anniversary, it stands as a testament to resilience, innovation and a relentless pursuit of excellence. With a solid foundation and a clear vision for the future, Prism Inks is poised to continue leading the industry for decades to come.
