Ukrainian printer consumables industry adapts, grows despite severe wartime challenges, showcasing resilience and innovation.
Speaking recently at The Recycler Live conference, Elena Sergienko, Head of the Export Department at VM Group, shared how the Ukrainian printer consumables sector has shown remarkable resilience and adaptability amidst the ongoing war.
Despite the severe challenges posed by the conflict, including transportation and logistics issues, maintaining top personnel, and missile attacks on business assets, the industry has managed not only to survive but also to thrive.
Since the full-scale invasion, 64% of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Ukraine temporarily suspended or closed their operations. However, by October 2023, only 19.6% were at risk of shutting down permanently. The sector’s recovery has been driven by several key strategies, including the restructuring of logistics routes, optimising inventory, increasing export sales, and focusing on corporate clients and tenders.
Leadership and teamwork played a crucial role in this turnaround. The CEO’s proactive leadership, coupled with the employees’ courage and cohesion, ensured that operations continued despite rocket attacks. Special cooperation terms and volunteer assistance were provided to dealers affected by missile attacks, further bolstering the industry’s resilience.
The future outlook for the Ukrainian printer consumables market is promising. After an initial 46% drop, the market showed a 37% increase. The sector’s low production costs, professional expertise, and reliable partnerships make it an attractive prospect for growth and development. Significant achievements during the war include launching a brand site (barva.ua), expanding the barva inks dealer network abroad, and installing a new aspiration system at the toner production department.
In April 2024, Ukraine set a new export record with 13.1 million tons of cargo, underscoring the country’s potential as a reliable partner for investors. The country’s digitalisation of public administration has also positioned it as a global leader in this area.
Despite the war’s ongoing challenges, the Ukrainian printer consumables industry has demonstrated unparalleled endurance and innovation, setting the stage for future growth and cooperation.
