In an increasingly digital world, the demand for paper remains strong—spanning education, packaging, healthcare, and more. At the center of this enduring industry stands Poonam Gupta, a determined woman entrepreneur who built PG Paper into a global success.
The Woman Behind PG Paper
Poonam Gupta is an Indian-born entrepreneur settled in Scotland since 2002. As the founder and CEO of PG Paper Company, she has redefined how paper can be sustainably repurposed to serve a growing global market.
Her story reflects ambition, innovation, and resilience—qualities that helped her rise in a competitive business world.
Academic Excellence and Early Challenges
Born in Delhi, Poonam completed her schooling at Lady Irwin School and Delhi Public School. She went on to earn a degree in Economics from Lady Shri Ram College and an MBA in International Business and Marketing from FORE School of Management and Maastricht School of Management in Holland.
She later pursued a Ph.D. in International Business and Marketing from Ecole Supérieure Robert de Sorbon.
Despite her impressive qualifications, she initially struggled to find a job in Scotland after marriage. But Poonam didn’t give up—instead, she took charge of her destiny.
A Leap into Entrepreneurship
After a short stint running a pharmaceutical recruitment agency, Poonam launched PG Paper in 2002 from her home in Kilmacolm, Scotland. She started with a modest $1,000 (₹1 lakh) startup grant.
Her big idea? Repurpose waste paper—originally meant for landfills—and turn it into valuable packaging and printing products. This eco-conscious approach quickly gained traction.
PG Paper's Innovative Business Model
PG Paper is a B2B enterprise that supplies paper and packaging materials to over 55 countries. It sources paper of varying grades from UK and global mills to meet specific industry needs.
The company specializes in paper for newspapers, notebooks, pizza boxes, chocolate packaging, and pharmaceutical labels. A dedicated R&D team and strong logistics capabilities ensure quality and on-time delivery.
Global Growth and Export Success
From its first deal—buying paper from Italy and selling it in the Indian subcontinent—PG Paper has grown to generate 95% of its revenue from exports. The company now earns ₹650 crore ($73 million) annually and continues to expand its international footprint.
Focus on Sustainability
Poonam’s commitment to sustainability led her to explore biodegradable and eco-friendly alternatives to plastic packaging. PG Paper is now working on replacing plastic products with recyclable paper-based options, contributing to a greener future.
Role Models and Inspirations
Inspired by icons like Indira Gandhi and Richard Branson, Poonam believes in leaving a legacy through business. Her mantra is to stay ambitious and make a positive impact through entrepreneurship.
Overcoming Life’s Hardest Moments
Facing personal and professional lows, Poonam once said, "I was preparing to die. But my daughter and my business gave me a reason to fight. I wanted to leave something meaningful behind."
Her resilience has shaped her into a powerful business leader, with many family members now working alongside her at PG Paper.
Future Vision
Poonam is focused on long-term growth through sustainable packaging innovation. She aims to inspire more women to achieve financial independence and step into leadership roles.
Wrapping Up
From job rejections to building a ₹800 crore international enterprise, Poonam Gupta’s journey is a masterclass in perseverance and vision. As the majority stakeholder in Sapp Holdings Ltd, she continues to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Who is the founder of PG Paper?
Poonam Gupta is the founder and CEO of PG Paper Company.
Q2. What is the business model of PG Paper?
PG Paper supplies various grades of paper and packaging materials sourced from global partners to meet B2B industry needs.
Q3. What is the current revenue of PG Paper?
PG Paper generates over ₹650 crore in annual revenue, with 95% coming from international exports.
Q4. When was PG Paper founded?
PG Paper was founded in 2002 in Kilmacolm, Scotland.
Q5. What makes PG Paper stand out?
Its eco-friendly, export-driven model and focus on paper recycling and sustainability distinguish PG Paper from competitors.