The PFF Packaging Group proudly announced the appointment of Kenton Robbins as group managing director in January 2018. With a comprehensive understanding of the food manufacturing and supply chain, he shares insights into the growing pressure on plastic and presents a solution fit for the princes.
When asked to describe himself in three words, Robbins chooses “professional, measured, mindful.”
Reflecting on his biggest professional achievement, Robbins shares the personal significance of winning a large-scale sole supply agreement in the dairy industry. This triumph not only secured hundreds of jobs but also safeguarded the futures of an entire region.
Robbins credits his journey to his natural drivers of hard work and determination, but he emphasizes that the support of his family, friends, and particularly his wife Julie played a significant role. Julie has consistently served as his unpaid PA, confidant, advisor, and supporter behind the scenes.
A typical day for Robbins entails a mix of time spent in the factory, attending meetings, reviewing performance, implementing improvements, and driving change.
In the eyes of Robbins, the entrepreneurial spirit of PFF Packaging Group itself is a major highlight. Despite the industry landscape witnessing mergers and acquisitions, PFF Packaging Group has demonstrated resilience and continues to thrive as an independent business, defying the odds in a David and Goliath fashion.
Looking ahead to the next 12 months, Robbins offers a positive prediction for the food industry. With the recent focus on plastic and the urgent need for reducing, reusing, and recycling resources, Robbins is confident that the food industry will lead the way in adopting closed-loop systems and comprehending the total environmental footprint of packaging solutions.
Robbins acknowledges that while plastics may face criticism, they possess increasing credentials in terms of reusability and recyclability. He advocates for valuing plastic as a commodity to be reused and recycled, rather than heedlessly disposing of it.
In Robbins’ eyes, listening serves as the most crucial attribute for a leader. Having worked for great individuals who have lacked this quality, he recognizes the importance of considering diverse opinions before making decisions.
Ricardo Semler, CEO of Semco and author of the book “Maverick,” garners Robbins’ admiration. Semler’s innovative approach to decentralization and industrial democracy propelled Semco to become Brazil’s largest conglomerate.
Robbins identifies the ready-to-go and eat-in categories as the ones to watch, spotlighting brands like Itsu, Moma, and Zizzi’s. These brands are driving entrepreneurial growth through their fusion of innovation and unwavering commitment to quality in both food and packaging solutions.
If Robbins were not in his current position, he would likely indulge his love for drawing. Though initially considering a career in graphic design, he ultimately pursued engineering.
Revealing a hidden talent, Robbins shares that he trained as a model engineer, crafting remarkable scale steam engines. Notably, he and his team were honored to fulfill a request from the Prince and Princess of Wales to create Christmas presents for Prince William and Prince Harry.
Confessing his love for speed, Robbins admits that he has an inherent affinity for fast cars, bikes, and anything that provides an adrenaline rush.
To unwind, Robbins enjoys swimming, cycling, and running. Occasionally, he even combines all three activities by participating in triathlons.
When asked how he would like to be remembered, Robbins expresses his desire for a life rich in experience, laughter, and adrenaline, underscoring the importance of living life to the fullest.