"Our goal is to reduce environmental impact without sacrificing excellence in the finish."
With over 50 years of experience, PCM is a family-run business specializing in advanced decoration of packaging and components, primarily for the perfume and cosmetics industry. We spoke with Alex Martín, Project Manager, to learn more about the company.
She is part of the third generation to lead PCM, a company with over 50 years of history. What has motivated her to continue in the family business, considering that generational succession is often difficult these days?
Being part of the third generation is a significant responsibility, but also something very personal. I grew up seeing the effort behind every decision, every client, and every project, and that leaves a mark.
For me, staying with the company is also a way to continue all the work and values upon which it has been built. I'm motivated by being able to contribute my vision, adapt it to the changing times, and at the same time, feel that I'm still part of something that goes far beyond the professional realm.
PCM Grupo specializes in packaging decoration. Specifically, what services do they offer their clients?
At PCM, we specialize in decorating glass, plastic, and aluminum containers. We work with various techniques such as lacquering, screen printing, and hot stamping, adapting to the needs of each project.
Beyond the technical aspects, our value lies in supporting the client. We participate from the earliest stages, advising on the feasibility of the design and helping to optimize the process to guarantee quality, efficiency, and consistency with the brand's identity.
Our goal is to make each package a unique element, taking care of both the final result and the entire process behind it.
What are the most in-demand techniques and finishes?
Currently, there is a clear trend towards premium finishes that offer differentiation and reinforce brand identity. Matte effects, more organic gradients, and subtle metallics stand out, in line with a more elegant and sensory aesthetic influenced by fashion and design.
The combination of techniques, such as screen printing, lacquering, and hot stamping, is also gaining prominence to create greater visual and tactile richness. At the same time, there is a growing demand for finishes that convey sustainability, with a more natural and conscious aesthetic.
UV screen printing and hot stamping remain key, but are evolving towards more creative and minimalist applications.
How do they apply sustainability criteria?
Sustainability is integral to our way of working. We apply it throughout the entire production process, from material selection to energy optimization. We use eco-friendly inks and paints, more efficient UV drying processes, and solar energy generation. Our goal is to reduce our environmental impact without compromising on the excellence of our finish.
What kind of sustainable solutions do they offer?
We offer solutions designed to reduce environmental impact without compromising the final result. We work with UV-cured inks, water-based paints, and optimized processes that reduce energy consumption and minimize waste.
Furthermore, we assist our clients in selecting the packaging, ensuring it is technically suitable for their desired decoration. This allows us to optimize the use of raw materials and energy during the production process, reducing consumption and improving efficiency from the outset of the project.
Is sustainability, along with technical innovation and customer service, the key to success?
Sustainability is a fundamental part, but it's not the only one. Our success is based on combining it with technical innovation and, above all, with a personal touch.
As a family business, we understand relationships as being based on trust and long-term commitment. We are directly and personally involved in each project, supporting the client and truly understanding their needs.
That closeness is, to a large extent, what makes the difference.
Do they work primarily for the perfume and cosmetics industry?
Yes, these are where we have the greatest influence and where the packaging design plays a key role in brand perception.
From there, we also collaborate with other sectors such as food, beverages, home fragrance, and automotive. This diversity allows us to apply our knowledge in different contexts and adapt to the specific needs of each type of product.
How are they affected by the changes imposed by the new waste and packaging regulations?
New regulations require us to constantly evolve. We adapt materials, processes, and technologies to meet current requirements and, where possible, anticipate future ones.
While they present an operational challenge, they also act as a driver of change. They drive us to innovate, optimize our processes, and continue moving toward more efficient and sustainable solutions. In this sense, we see them not only as an obligation but also as an opportunity to improve and deliver greater value to our customers.
What is the current state of the packaging sector? Would flexibility and service be the advantages of an SME compared to a large multinational group?
The packaging sector is undergoing a complete transformation, driven by sustainability, differentiation, and brand experience.
In this context, SMEs like PCM bring flexibility, a personal touch, and a great capacity for adaptation. This allows us to offer more customized solutions and directly support our clients in every project.
That proximity, along with speed in decision-making and technical specialization, is now becoming a key advantage over larger companies.
Do you plan to present any new products this year?
We are working on new solutions aimed at further progress in sustainability and efficiency, especially in the development of more responsible finishes and in the optimization of our production processes.
Our focus is on improving resource utilization, reducing energy consumption, and continuing to innovate both technically and aesthetically. The goal is clear: to offer our clients solutions that not only stand out for their design but also deliver real value in terms of efficiency and sustainability.
