Under Forty: Vikas Gulati (Galaxy Offset India)

“The possibilities that a good printing press and a good printing brain can conjure are much greater than simply meeting the expectations of a customer.” Now we know why they say, “Vikas is not just him. He is also the sum total of all their print jobs.”

20 Dec 2014 | By Tanvi Parekh

When did you decide to join the business?
I decided to join when I was still in college.

Where do you learn the tricks of the trade? In an executive education programme or on the job?
Life is all about learning. I learnt the tricks on the job by trial and error. Also, the workshops that I have attended have enlightened me.

What technology has made the biggest difference to your business?
The biggest difference for us was when we shifted our operations from used-machinery to new ones. Our investment in 2006 on Heidelberg SM 74, five-colour coater made a big impact.

What do you prefer: a mentor in the industry or brain storming with like-aged?
Brain storming with like minded, positive and motivated people irrespective of age.

If you won Rs 25 crores what would you invest in? Why?
I would use it as a collateral and invest into a Rs 100-crore print project.

For a working lunch if you met the PM of India, what would you talk to him about?
Would try to impress upon him that our industry should be recognised at par with other industries.

If you were NOT in this industry, you would have ...
I can’t think beyond.

Cat naps? 10 hour snooze? Or catch up on sleep during the weekend?
Only if my kids allow, try to catch up on sleep during weekends.

Best print gift given
I gifted a small book to one of my early days customer on her 60th birthday, which had memories of her glorious 60 years.

Best print compliment received
‘You are a magician’.

One person who impressed you with wisdom. Why?
My mother who taught me to be humble and grounded.

Your gym regime
30-minute walk or a 20-minute treadmill.