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Discover boundless networking opportunities at the upcoming edition of Paperworld Middle East, the region’s largest international trade show for paper, stationery & office supplies.

Hub Forum

Hub Forum – where learning meets inspiration

Hall 5

Experience the ultimate industry gathering at Hub Forum, where you can meet with industry experts, thought leaders, and key players in the Paper, Stationery, Office Supply & Gift sector. Don't miss this exclusive opportunity to be part of impactful discussions on E-commerce, digital, and sustainable trends shaping the industry's future.

Our carefully curated lineup of industry-renowned speakers and thought leaders will share their expertise, while valuable sessions and discussions will provide actionable insights for your business. This exclusive event serves as a platform for forging meaningful connections with like-minded professionals, exploring innovative ideas, and staying ahead in the ever-evolving marketplace.

Hub Forum at Paperworld Middle East
Hub Forum at Paperworld Middle East
Hub Forum at Paperworld Middle East
Hub Forum at Paperworld Middle East
Hub Forum at Paperworld Middle East
Hub Forum at Paperworld Middle East
Hub Forum at Paperworld Middle East
Hub Forum at Paperworld Middle East
Hub Forum at Paperworld Middle East
Hub Forum at Paperworld Middle East
Hub Forum at Paperworld Middle East
Hub Forum at Paperworld Middle East
Hub Forum at Paperworld Middle East

2024 Agenda

Day 1

12 November 2024

11:00 | Future-Forward Sustainability in Logistics Packaging

12:00 | Beyond Borders - The Globalization of Paper and Stationery Brands in the Middle East and Africa 

13:00 | Regulatory Compliance : Best Practices for Paper and Stationery Companies to Ensure Adherence to Regulations

14:00 | The Art of Corporate Gifting - Middle Eastern Traditions and Trends

15:00 | AI for Marketing

16:00 | Integrating the Best Practices in Paper Manufacturing: Innovations and Opportunities

Day 2

13 November 2024

11:00 | Emerging Trends in Corrugated Paper in MENA

12:00 | Transforming the Paper and Stationery Industry: Harnessing Trends, Sustainability, and AI-Driven Innovations for Market Growth

13:00 | Navigating Sustainability in the Middle East - Local Challenges, Global Solutions      

14:00 | The current state of consumer behavior: Predicting trends, innovations, and opportunities shaping the future of the paper and stationery market

15:00 | B2B E-commerce: Coordinating efforts with the marketplace leaders

Day 3

14 November 2024

11:00 | Advancements in Paper-based Packaging Materials: Enhancing Performance and Functionality       

12:00 | Tailoring Stationery:  Customer Preferences and Providing Personalized Solutions

13:00 | Government Policy on Single-Use Plastics: Implications and Opportunities

14:00 | Power and Potential of Brand Collaborations

15:00 | Navigating the Global Stationery Market: Key Insights, Growth Projections, Emerging Trends and Opportunities

15:30 | Is the market really overcrowded? How to navigate the everchanging demand landscape and challenge of setting up a robust supply chain.

2024 Conference Schedule

11:00 Future-Forward Sustainability in Logistics Packaging

As we navigate an era where environmental responsibility is paramount, we must explore how the printing and packaging industry is evolving to meet sustainability goals. This presentation will cover innovative strategies, technologies, and practices driving sustainable progress in our industry.

Speaker:
Chrishanthi Niluka- Innovation Engagement Manager, DHL Innovation Center, Middle East & Africa

12:00 Panel discussion: Beyond Borders - The Globalization of Paper and Stationery Brands in the Middle East and Africa

An insightful panel discussion exploring the globalization of paper and stationery brands in the Middle East and Africa. This session will explore the challenges and opportunities international brands face expanding into these diverse and rapidly growing markets. Our panel of industry experts will share their experiences, strategies for success, and the impact of cultural and economic factors on market entry and growth.

Speakers:
Swapnil Surve- Managing Director- Afro Fusion Group
Naynesh Pasari- CEO, Shree Krishna Paper Mills & Industries
Parvesh Kapoor- Director, Alia Mohd Trading Co. LLC

Moderator:
Nadia Swan- Broadcast News Presenter, Conference MC, Panel Moderator

13:00 Regulatory Compliance: Best Practices for Paper and Stationery Companies to Ensure Adherence to Regulations

This session will cover best practices for ensuring adherence to international and local regulations, including environmental standards, safety protocols, and consumer protection laws. Our expert will share insights into navigating complex regulatory landscapes, the importance of staying updated with changing regulations, and practical strategies for maintaining compliance.

Speaker:
Henrietta Cardoza- Technical Manager, Intertek
Laila Moghrabi- Regional Operations Manager – Middle East, Intertek International Ltd.

14:00 Panel discussion: The Art of Corporate Gifting - Middle Eastern Traditions and Trends

This panel discussion will explore the rich cultural nuances, historical significance, and contemporary trends shaping corporate gifting practices in the region. Our panel of experts will share insights on how businesses can navigate cultural etiquette, select appropriate and meaningful gifts, and leverage gifting as a strategic tool to build and strengthen business relationships.

Speakers:
Birenkumar Laxmikant Jasani- Managing Director, Jasani L.L.C
Chirantan Bhattacharya- Head of Category and Marketplace, FNP
Federico Pasini- Vice President, Atlantis Headwear - Master Italia SpA
Mohamed Alayat- Managing Director, Alpha Art Gifts LLC

Moderator:
Nadia Swan- Broadcast News Presenter, Conference MC, Panel Moderator

15:00 AI for Marketing

The insightful session presentation on how Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing the paper and stationery industry. Where we will explore practical examples, emerging trends, and next-generation AI solutions that are reshaping business operations and enhancing competitiveness in the sector. Attendees can expect to gain valuable insights into how AI is automating production processes, improving quality control, tailoring product design, and optimizing supply chains, ultimately leading to innovation and efficiency in the industry.

Speaker:
Julian Weiland- CEO, The Scale Company

16:00 Integrating the Best Practices in Paper Manufacturing: Innovations and Opportunities

Speaker:
Ritesh Gupta- Area Sales Manager, Ittihad Paper Mill LLC
Abdullah Al Khateeb, Managing Director, Ittihad Paper Mill LLC

Moderator:
Nadia Swan

11:00 Emerging Trends in Corrugated Paper in MENA

As the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region experiences rapid growth in e-commerce, retail, and industrial sectors, the demand for innovative and sustainable packaging solutions is surging. This session will explore the latest advancements in corrugated paper technology, focusing on eco-friendly innovations, enhanced durability, and design trends tailored to the region’s unique market needs. Industry experts will discuss how these emerging trends are shaping supply chains, reducing environmental impact, and creating new opportunities for businesses in the packaging sector. Join us to stay ahead of the curve in corrugated paper advancements within MENA.

Speaker:
Luke Banks- Co-Founder and Managing Director, JL Group LLC-FZ

12:00 Transforming the Paper and Stationery Industry: Harnessing Trends, Sustainability, and AI-Driven Innovations for Market Growth

This session will provide a comprehensive outlook on the future of the paper and stationery sector by combining insights into current market trends with practical applications of AI and other technological advancements. Attendees will gain actionable knowledge on leveraging these trends and technologies to drive business growth, enhance customer relationships, and ensure long-term success.

Speaker:
Muhammad Aman Raffi- Performance Director, The Idea Agency

13:00 Panel discussion: Navigating Sustainability in the Middle East - Local Challenges, Global Solutions

Join us for an in-depth exploration of sustainability in the Middle East, with a special focus on the paper and stationery industry. This session will address the unique environmental challenges faced in the region and present global solutions that can be adapted to address these local issues. We'll examine the specific sustainability concerns of the paper and stationery sector, including resource management, waste reduction, and the adoption of eco-friendly practices.

Speakers:
Richa Bansal- Founder, Ecobee
Namrata Budhraja- Co-Founder, Shift Eco
Sahar Karoubi- Founder, Bambuyu
Vikram Rana- Group Chairman & CEO, RED RIDGE GLOBAL

Moderator:
Nadia Swan- Broadcast News Presenter, Conference MC, Panel Moderator

14:00 The current state of consumer behavior: Predicting trends, innovations, and opportunities shaping the future of the paper and stationery market

As consumer preferences shift toward sustainability and personalization, the paper and stationery market is evolving to meet new demands. Trends such as eco-friendly products, digital integration, and customization are driving innovation, while opportunities emerge for brands that prioritize sustainable practices and tech-enhanced designs. Understanding these behaviors is key to anticipating market shifts, creating cutting-edge products, and capitalizing on emerging consumer desires for functionality, creativity, and environmental responsibility.

Speakers:
Nobel Ninan- Founder and Managing Director of Pencil Office Supplies
Ali Haider- CEO, Capital Envelopes
Parvesh Kapoor- Director, Alia Mohd Trading Co. LLC
Fadi Baaklini- Chairman, MEPCO Gulf

Moderator:
Ritesh Gupta- Area Sales Manager, Ittihad Paper Mill LLC

15:00 Panel discussion: B2B E-commerce: Coordinating efforts with the marketplace leaders

This session will delve into the strategies and best practices for effectively collaborating with marketplace leaders in the B2B e-commerce landscape, specifically within the paper and stationery industry. It will explore how businesses can optimize their presence on major e-commerce platforms, streamline operations, and enhance their market reach through strategic partnerships.

Speakers:
Tariq Abu Samra- Managing Partner, BloomingBox
Lina Gallagher- Managing Director, Emerce Consulting
Victoria Holekamp- Category Director- Books & Stationery, Noon

Moderator:
Nadia Swan- Broadcast News Presenter, Conference MC, Panel Moderator

11:00 Panel discussion: Advancements in Paper-based Packaging Materials: Enhancing Performance and Functionality

This session will explore the latest advancements in paper-based packaging materials, focusing on how innovations are enhancing performance and functionality. Attendees will gain insights into new technologies and materials that are improving the sustainability, durability, and versatility of paper-based packaging solutions.

Speakers: 
Rohit Ghosh- Global Commercial Head, Paperboard, APRIL
Max Shih Chun-Wei - Head of Offset Sales, APRIL
Danny Lee Chong Keat- Head of Marketing, APRIL
Jayanta Kumar Sahoo- Regional Head – Cut-size, APRIL

Moderator:
Kaunain Shahidi- Procurement manager, Almarai

12:00 Panel discussion: Tailoring Stationery:  Customer Preferences and Providing Personalized Solutions

This session will explore the art of customizing stationery to meet diverse customer preferences and provide personalized solutions. Attendees will gain insights into how to effectively tailor stationery products to align with individual customer needs and preferences, enhancing satisfaction and building stronger client relationships.

Speakers:
Reesha Floripes Almeida Coutinho- Founder and Creative Director , Pret A Papier Design
Sakina Esufally-  Head of International Business, Atlas Axillia
Neda Safaei- Country Manager – Middle East , Africa & Mediterranean, Moleskine
Najeeba Raval- Managing Director. SkriblBox

Moderator:
Purva Grover- Journalist and Author

13:00 Panel discussion: Government Policy on Single-Use Plastics: Implications and Opportunities

The session will offer a comprehensive understanding of the UAE's policies on single-use plastics and their impact on businesses and consumers. Attendees will gain actionable insights on sustainable alternatives, compliance strategies, and economic opportunities, equipping them with the knowledge needed to navigate and leverage these changes for improved business practices and market success.

Speakers:
Yuvraj Bahl- Director, Kaagaz Trading LLC
Parv Sondhi - Founder and Managing partner, PSQ Paper Trading LLC
Kaunain Shahidi- Procurement manager, Almarai

Moderator:
Nadia Swan- Broadcast News Presenter, Conference MC, Panel Moderator

14:00 Power and Potential of Brand Collaborations

We will explore strategies for harnessing the power of well-known characters and brands to create unique and appealing products that stand out in a crowded market. Attendees will learn how to tap into extensive fan bases and brand loyalty, as well as create strategic brand alliances to capture new market segments and drive significant revenue growth.

Speaker:
Shruti Dhok- Licensing Manager, K2S Media- Geekay Group

15:00 Navigating the Global Stationery Market: Key Insights, Growth Projections, Emerging Trends and Opportunities

The presentation would cover our introduction for around 5-7 mins and rest on the global stationery market. The presentation will cover key insights into the global stationery market, offering an in-depth look at growth projections and emerging trends. It will explore how sustainability, digital innovation, and shifting consumer demands are shaping the industry. Additionally, the session will highlight new opportunities for businesses to tap into, providing a roadmap for successfully navigating the evolving stationery landscape and capitalizing on future market developments.

Speaker:
Dhwipal Shah- Founder and CEO , Bonafide Research & Marketing Pvt Ltd

15:30 Panel discussion: Is the market really overcrowded? How to navigate the everchanging demand landscape and challenge of setting up a robust supply chain

Speakers:
Nobel Ninan- Founder and Managing Director of Pencil Office Supplies
Ali Haider- CEO, Capital Envelopes
Parvesh Kapoor- Director, Alia Mohd Trading Co. LLC
Fadi Baaklini- Chairman, MEPCO Gulf

Moderator:
Ritesh Gupta- Area Sales Manager, Ittihad Paper Mill LLC

Our 2024 speakers