The packaging sector is undergoing massive change, ignited by a series of developments. There has been a significant shift towards paper packaging to promote environmental sustainability and spread awareness across society. E-commerce giant Amazon mentioned in its current sustainability report that it has shifted to paper from plastic for protective internal packaging material in 13 of its fulfillment centers in the U.S. The usage of technological innovations like AI and the implementation of Industry 4.0 have been game-changing for the corrugated paper products manufacturing industry, where the size of boxes can be recognized through an AI system for better clarity in manufacturing. Last but not least, there is a growing global demand for paper packaging products, with manufacturers introducing advanced ideas to add value to the business ecosystem.
However, clients face a few challenges when availing products from a corrugated paper packaging manufacturer. The first is a lack of understanding that can result in unsatisfied customers. This lack of understanding might stem from a deficiency in technology and expertise in the field, and in this highly competitive market, it is crucial for a manufacturer to deliver the perfect product to sustain success. Meshari Aljabr, MD of Gulf Carton, is one of the leaders in the corrugated paper packaging industry who has found ways to overcome all the above-mentioned challenges. With immense experience, expertise, and access to the most advanced technologies available globally, he is one of the most trusted figures in this industry in Saudi Arabia.
A determined entrepreneurial mindset differentiates Meshari Aljabr from other leaders in this sector. Coming from a business family, he developed a deep interest in both manufacturing and management, which led him to study Industrial Systems Engineering at the prestigious King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, one of the most renowned institutions in Saudi Arabia. A degree from there symbolizes a candidate’s perfect education. In every respect, the Gulf Carton MD has exceeded organizational expectations and set an example as a visionary business leader. “After graduating, I joined the family business in 2009. During the first year, I was tasked with understanding every segment of the business operations and the values we live by. Finally, in 2012, I took control as MD, and it has been a journey full of learning for me until now,” says Meshari Aljabr.
Adopting an Eco-Friendly Approach
With rising awareness about environmental sustainability, it has become essential for organizations to not only produce goods with eco-friendly materials but also reduce wastage in manufacturing and use circular economy processes for production. As a leader, Meshari Aljabr has ensured that all the above practices are followed in his company. Quality is one of the primary aspects that his company upholds, but here, the company serves a
broader perspective. It provides a complete range of eco-friendly paper packaging products that can be customized to customer preferences. It spreads awareness about the importance of using eco-friendly products in society.
The company’s current manufacturing process also stands as a testimony to the commitment to environmental sustainability that the company has made. It is very strict about the manufacturing process and raw material sourcing, ensuring that eco-friendly processes are followed at every step of production. “We source a significant amount of recycled material as raw materials for manufacturing. It is one of the sustainability measures that I have implemented. We also have zero waste manufacturing at our plant,” mentions Meshari Aljabr.
Expert People Management
It is within Gulf Carton’s organizational values to grow along with the employees as an organization. As the current MD of this company, Meshari Aljabr has rightfully upheld the company’s organizational values. During his tenure as a business leader, he has always strived to create a family environment within the organization, which has fostered a sense of unity among the employees. Several employees have been with the company for many years and have developed a strong sense of belonging towards their employer. HR management is one aspect that Gulf Carton has strictly followed over the years, and under the leadership of Meshari Aljabr, it has reached new heights in people management and human resource operations. “It is our core philosophy to maintain a friendly environment at the office where all employees are happy to work. Over the years, we have been able to maintain that and take care of the welfare and well-being of our employees,” adds Meshari Aljabr.
Always Ahead in Technology
During his tenure as MD of the company, Meshari Aljabr has successfully implemented Industry 4.0 across manufacturing operations in the company. He has made it a priority to always stay ahead in technology when it comes to manufacturing. Manufacturing at Gulf Carton is completely automated and requires minimal or no human intervention. The company also uses AI for various business operations, from procurement to product delivery. “We have a separate department for organizational excellence, which is always looking for ways to enhance business operations. We use the best technology available in the market and always leave room for improvement. On the suggestion of the organizational excellence department, we adopt new technologies and discontinue outdated ones,” states Meshari Aljabr.
A determined entrepreneurial mindset is what differentiates Meshari Aljabr from the other leaders in this sector
Sound Leadership Skills
Meshari Aljabr took over the business from his father, who entrusted this responsibility to him only after recognizing that he would be a good fit as MD of Gulf Carton. Since taking over in 2012, he has displayed exemplary leadership skills. He has not only lived up to the name of his family but also added significant value to the corrugated paper packaging industry as a whole. He follows four pillars for the success of the company and his development as a successful business leader in Saudi Arabia: growth, human resources, quality assurance, and business transparency.
Gulf Carton is an ISO-certified company and holds all relevant ISO certifications. The company has strict quality control departments at every step of the process and maintains high-quality standards for all products delivered. “Apart from everything, we always maintain a level of absolute transparency inside and outside the organization. We keep a healthy and friendly environment at the office, and at the same time, we maintain healthy relationships with our clients. We try to keep them happy and always stay transparent about every aspect of business and transactions,” says Meshari Aljabr.
Looking at the Future
Until now, as one of the most trusted business leaders in Saudi Arabia, Meshari Aljabr has gained considerable trust and recognition in his market. He has developed many new and innovative processes in the company and led it to new heights in terms of volume and geographical reach. “Looking ahead, we are planning to establish another office in Saudi Arabia so that we can cover more areas. Additionally, we are always in search of new ideas that can give a boost to our business operations,” concludes Meshari Aljabr.
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