What made you select packaging as a profession, and what evokes you concerning the sector?
Tendresse Lompala – My journey into packaging began with an issue I confronted when launching my very own meals model, Tendrelac.
I observed that many Congolese entrepreneurs have been making high quality merchandise however had big difficulties discovering packaging that was appropriate, skilled and reasonably priced. Some native merchandise struggled to compete. The rationale wasn’t their high quality, however merely how they have been introduced.
That actuality actually struck me. I realised that good packaging might rework how a product is perceived, construct client belief and open the door to new markets. That’s how my perception was born: “Package deal properly to promote properly.”
At present, I don’t see packaging as only a container. For me, it’s an actual software for financial improvement.
This yr’s Paris Packaging Week theme is “Within the Highlight”. In your view, which problem or alternative within the packaging sector deserves extra consideration?
Tendresse Lompala – I imagine the worldwide packaging trade ought to pay extra consideration to the challenges confronted by African entrepreneurs.
Within the Democratic Republic of the Congo , now we have gifted producers, uncooked supplies and immense entrepreneurial potential. But entry to fashionable packaging applied sciences, industrial gear and sustainable options stays restricted, which typically prevents our merchandise from reaching worldwide markets.
For me, one of many largest alternatives is to develop a packaging trade that’s accessible, progressive and tailored to African realities. Africa shouldn’t solely be seen as a client market, but in addition as a key participant in innovation and manufacturing.
What would you want to vary within the packaging trade?
Tendresse Lompala – I wish to assist make skilled, sustainable packaging accessible to small companies. At present, many entrepreneurs have wonderful merchandise however can’t order sure packaging due to minimal order portions or excessive prices.
I wish to assist create an ecosystem the place a small enterprise can get high quality packaging without having vital capital. I additionally wish to encourage the event of extra environmentally pleasant options.
My ambition is to make MMB Packaging an organization that helps African producers all the way in which from designing their packaging to reaching worldwide markets.
Which packaging innovation or pattern excites you probably the most?
Tendresse Lompala – I’m significantly excited by eco-friendly, recyclable and good packaging. The combination of digital applied sciences is an thrilling improvement, particularly QR codes that give customers entry to product data.
I’m additionally excited by improvements that scale back using plastic whereas conserving meals merchandise secure and properly preserved.
I’m satisfied that the way forward for packaging rests on three pillars: innovation, accessibility and sustainability.
Who or what has impressed you in your profession, and what’s the Most worthy lesson you’ve realized from it?
Tendresse Lompala – My journey has been formed by many entrepreneurs who managed to show difficulties into alternatives. However my biggest supply of inspiration stays my very own expertise as entrepreneur and the realities I face day by day.
Being an entrepreneur within the DRC takes a whole lot of braveness, persistence and perseverance. It taught me one basic lesson: you shouldn’t look ahead to all of the situations to be proper earlier than you begin. Typically it’s important to begin with the assets you will have, study out of your errors and transfer ahead step-by-step. Each problem can turn into a possibility to innovate.
What recommendation would you give to the subsequent technology of packaging professionals?
Tendresse Lompala – I’d inform them by no means to underestimate the significance of their work. Packaging performs a necessary position in product security, preservation, advertising and environmental impression.
I’d additionally advise them to be curious, to spend money on their coaching and to all the time search for options to the issues customers and companies face.
To younger Africans who wish to begin a enterprise on this sector, I’d say: don’t wait till you will have all of the assets to begin. Begin together with your imaginative and prescient, develop your abilities and construct your future step by step.
What does being chosen as a Future Chief imply to you?
Tendresse Lompala – Being chosen as a Paris Packaging Week Future Chief means far more than private recognition. It’s an immense supply of pleasure for me, for MMB Packaging and for the DRC.
This choice exhibits that younger African entrepreneurs have the concepts, abilities and ambition to contribute to the evolution of the worldwide packaging trade. It’s additionally a accountability: to continue to learn, innovating and provoking different younger folks, particularly ladies entrepreneurs.
I wish to use this chance to construct worldwide partnerships, uncover new applied sciences and assist modernise the packaging sector in Africa.
My dream is to sooner or later see extra merchandise made within the DRC on worldwide grocery store cabinets, in high quality packaging designed and produced regionally.
