Dr Poonam Gupta OBE’s journey to building a successful international paper company began with her arrival in Scotland in 2002. Today, she is a renowned entrepreneur both in the UK and globally.
Her diverse portfolio spans over 60 countries, with offices around the globe. Committed to enhancing collaboration between Scotland and India, Poonam led a successful Scottish Chambers Task Force to India in 2019. She has been recognised as one of the '100 Most Influential in UK-India Relations' by the India Inc Group and currently serves as Chair of the UK India Manufacturing Council, FICCI, the largest and oldest apex business organisation in India.
For the Asian Voice Independence Day feature, she discusses the inspiration behind establishing the firm and Indian businesses in the UK.
Could you describe your vision for establishing the PG Paper Company? What was the initial process like, and how did you put everything together in those early days?
Initially, my goal was to create a job for myself. I wanted to establish employment opportunities for myself and, beyond that, to build an international business. I was passionate about working with different countries, finding it exciting to meet people from around the world and embrace the challenges that come with it. I believed that creating an international business would offer significant opportunities for growth and expansion.
What are some key milestones that you’re particularly proud of?
I prefer to stay humble and avoid taking pride in achievements. Instead, I find it beneficial to acknowledge accomplishments as a way to motivate myself for future goals. One of my initial milestones was to reach a target of £1 million, which I achieved within a couple of years. I then set subsequent targets of £5 million, £10 million, and £50 million, all of which my company successfully met, although some targets were delayed. But I think now the next target for the company is pretty big. We are well-established in the paper industry and recognised as a serious player. For me, success means that the industry respects and acknowledges our contributions.
How will you describe the evolution of Indian businesses in the UK?
I believe the Indian diaspora has always been exceptionally entrepreneurial, a trait we seem to carry in our genes. I take great pleasure in seeing not only many successful entrepreneurs and startups in this space but also the increasing number of Indian women starting their own businesses. It truly makes me happy to witness this growth and diversity.
What challenges do you think Indian businesses generally encounter when establishing themselves in the UK?
Starting a business in the UK can be challenging, especially if you're new to the country. It’s not always straightforward to set up, and basic tasks, like opening a bank account, can be difficult. Additionally, understanding the local culture and navigating the complex laws and regulations can pose significant challenges. While grasping these rules is crucial for any business, it’s more about understanding than facing bias. Overall, I find the UK to be a very inclusive society, where businesses are generally not discriminated against based on their country of origin.
Are there any specific policies that you find particularly helpful?
There are several government incentives and organisations that provide valuable support for startups and growing businesses. For instance, in Scotland, Scottish Enterprise and Business Gateway are particularly helpful. Business Gateway assists with the initial stages of a business journey, while Scottish Enterprise supports expansion and scaling up once certain milestones are achieved. They also provide essential information and resources. Additionally, for businesses looking to enter international markets, the Department for Business and Trade offers excellent support and guidance.
How do you see your heritage influencing your work ethic? Are there specific values or principles that guide your day-to-day work life?
I carry many "desi" values with me and remain very connected to my roots. For example, I believe in saving and spending less, a principle I inherited from my parents. India teaches you not to limit your ambition, and I hold onto that mindset. Respect—toward your supply chain, customers, suppliers, and even friends and family—is crucial. Being respectful to the community and those you work with, along with maintaining honesty and integrity, has been fundamental to my approach.
How do you see the industry evolving over the next few years?
The next decade looks both exciting and challenging. Globally, political tensions are impacting businesses and individuals, which is concerning. However, the rapid advancement in technology—such as robotics and AI—presents numerous opportunities for growth and innovation. I remain optimistic overall, hoping for a more peaceful world and looking forward to businesses leveraging evolving technologies to their advantage.
As India celebrates its Independence Day, do you have any messages for your homeland?
Independence Day is a reminder of the sacrifices made by our freedom fighters for the country we have today. It’s about putting our country first and showing respect for it. As Indians, we should be proud of our heritage and contribute positively, whether in our businesses or personal lives. Embrace the journey and strive to make a mark globally while honouring and supporting our homeland.
