We talk about innovation at Gualapack with Aida Haxhi, Innovation Manager in R&D at Gualapack.
Aida, with a Bachelor's Degree in Plastics Engineering and a Master's Degree in Chemical Engineering from the Polytechnic University of Turin, leads the development of innovative and sustainable solutions for the Flexible Packaging company.
What are your responsibilities as Innovation Manager at Gualapack?
In my role as Innovation Manager, I am responsible for managing and coordinating the team in charge of developing new solutions and technologies for our Flexible Packaging portfolio. In addition to supervising their daily work, I strive to create a dynamic and stimulating environment that encourages creativity and experimentation. A key aspect of my job is to promote constant dialogue, not only within the team, but also with other company departments, so as to effectively integrate innovative ideas into Gualapack's overall strategy.
What skills and characteristics do you consider essential for an Innovation Manager at Gualapack?
To be successful in this sector, it is essential to have a solid base of technical skills, ranging from in-depth knowledge of materials and production processes to the ability to analyse and implement emerging technologies. However, what really distinguishes an innovation professional is attitude: unstoppable curiosity, an open mind and a strong predisposition to change. These elements, combined with a strategic vision oriented towards the future, are fundamental for responding promptly to the challenges of the market.
Aida Haxhi – Innovation Manager in R&D at Gualapack, has been with the company for 8 years, with a Bachelor's Degree in Plastics Engineering and a Master's Degree in Chemical Engineering from the Polytechnic University of Turin, she leads the development of innovative and sustainable solutions for the Flexible Packaging company.
How does Gualapack promote a corporate culture oriented towards innovation and talent development?
Gualapack has built a culture based on collaboration and the exchange of ideas. The company values every innovative proposal, encouraging discussion between the different departments and promoting professional growth paths that allow talents to express their potential to the full. This integrated approach stimulates creativity and strengthens the link between innovation and business strategy.
How is the innovation process managed in the company? What are the main phases from conception to implementation of a new product or solution?
Our innovation process is divided into five well-defined phases:
- Idea Generation & Screening: Collection and selection of the most promising ideas.
- Concept Definition & Feasibility: Evaluation of the technical and economic feasibility of the identified solutions.
- Development & Prototyping: Development of prototypes, laboratory tests and collection of initial feedback.
- Industrialisation & Validation: Product optimisation for large-scale production and final validation phases.
- Launch & Market Introduction: Market launch supported by targeted marketing strategies and constant monitoring of results.
This structured method allows us to transform innovative ideas into concrete solutions, minimising risks and guaranteeing high quality standards.
Sostenibilità e innovazione: come si integrano nelle strategie di packaging di Gualapack?Sustainability and innovation: how are they integrated into Gualapack's packaging strategies?
At Gualapack, sustainability is a strategic pillar and a fundamental driver of innovation. Our strategies are based on the use of environmentally friendly materials, the reduction of waste and the optimisation of production processes. Thanks to continuous investment in research and development, we are able to offer packaging solutions that respect the environment, without compromising the quality and functionality our customers require.
Can you give us a concrete example of how innovation translates into solutions for the market?
Gualapack was the first company in the packaging sector to develop a sustainable pouch in PP mono-material, designed to guarantee full recycling. The market has rewarded this innovative approach: currently, this formulation is the basis for the sale of 400 million pouches, with prospects for further growth in the coming years. Another example concerns the development of a customised cap for one of our customers, who required a solution capable of faithfully reproducing an element of their brand. Thanks to the speed and effectiveness of our innovative process, we were able to create a prototype in record time. Although the product has not yet been launched on the market, this project demonstrates how our customer-oriented approach and ability to adapt quickly to specific needs can transform a request into a successful solution.
