OUR STORY

PCKG was born amidst the Covid-19 pandemic, when supply chain disruptions left coffee brands struggling to source quality packaging. With backgrounds in Mar-Tech, Graphic Design, & Green Coffee sourcing, we launched a multi-functional operation; leveraging our families Indian export license, decades of manufacturing experience, and warehousing capabilities to fill that gap.

What began with a single facility in Mumbai has grown into a vertically integrated network offering design, marketing, manufacturing, and warehousing, tailored specifically for the coffee industry. We’ve since expanded to Dubai, adding premium printing capabilities and strategic global logistics benefits.

In just five years, we’ve weathered a series of global disruptions; from the pandemic and major geopolitical conflicts to port shutdowns and tariff hikes—all without external investment. We’re proudly independent and family-owned, with a diverse and deeply experienced team that brings unmatched insight into every corner of the coffee supply chain.

MEET OUR TEAM!

AJ Nelson

FOUNDER & CEO

AJ is a seasoned entrepreneur and business strategist who has spent his career scaling and exiting high-growth technology startups, particularly in the marketing and advertising technology sectors. With deep expertise in B2B sales, channel sales, business development, strategic partnerships, contract negotiation, and digital marketing, AJ has a proven track record of building value across the SaaS landscape. While he's known as a serial entrepreneur, his latest venture, PCKG, holds a special place in his heart. Driven by a passion for coffee and a desire to make a meaningful environmental impact, AJ founded PCKG to champion a circular economy and promote recyclability in packaging. Through this work, he aims to merge purpose with innovation, creating sustainable solutions that benefit both businesses and the planet.

Elaina Nelson

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Elaina is a multidisciplinary designer with a BFA in Textile/Surface Design from the Fashion Institute of Technology, where she also pursued dual minors in Art History and Creative Writing. Her career began in the fashion and home industries, working with brands such as Victoria’s Secret and Li & Fung, before transitioning into the tech space where she supported textile design software development, training, and Adobe instruction. This role expanded her skill set to include graphic and web design, marketing, and video content creation. For the past six years, she's focused exclusively on graphic and packaging design, leveraging her deep expertise in Adobe Creative Suite to work with speed and precision. With a foundation in commercial design, Elaina understands the importance of clear communication and adaptability, and takes pride in delivering creative solutions that meet both client goals and market expectations.

LOUISA STRATIGIS

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Louisa is an Operations Director with a delightfully unpredictable career path and a knack for turning chaos into streamlined systems. Equal parts spreadsheet jockey, systems builder, and pun enthusiast, she brings sharp humor and sharper strategy to every challenge. A graduate of the French Culinary Institute (RIP), Louisa has worn many hats before finding her niche in specialty coffee, blending her love for the industry with serious business acumen. Whether she’s cracking jokes or cracking down on inefficiencies, Louisa leads with heart, hustle, and a relentless commitment to excellence.

GABE SMENTEK

CLIENT PARTNERSHIPS MANAGER, SPECIALTY

Gabe is an experienced Coffee Director with over 20 years in the specialty coffee industry. What hasn't he done? From barista to Production Manager, Gabe has an impressive background in operations management, retail, logistics, event coordination, project management, and website oversight. Known for his quick wit, dry sarcasm, and deep love of cats, Gabe’s real superpower lies in his ability to build authentic connections with everyone he meets. Whether he’s solving operational puzzles or cracking a perfectly timed joke, Gabe brings both heart and humor to the table.

PAUL ROSS

CLIENT PARTNERSHIPS MANAGER, ENTERPRISE

Paul is a sharp, driven professional with a BA from Fordham University and a strong background in customer experience, partnerships, and operations. With past roles as a Customer Experience Manager and Associate Partnerships Manager at Trade, as well as District Manager at Gregorys Coffee, Paul has honed his skills in data analysis, operations management, people leadership, and of course, coffee. Known for his analytical mind, positive energy, and constant curiosity, Paul approaches every challenge with a smile and a genuine eagerness to learn and grow. His thoughtful, team-first mentality makes him a natural collaborator and ideal partner for your business.

JARED MUSTON

STRATEGIC ACCOUNT MANAGER

Jared brings over 10 years of experience in customer success and account management, combining operational rigor with a refreshingly human touch. His background spans both B2B and B2C environments, including early-stage and growth-stage SaaS startups, where he built a reputation for driving client satisfaction, retention, and revenue through thoughtful, strategic partnerships. He’s known for his empathetic communication style, ability to balance multiple priorities, and knack for turning roadblocks into results. His passions for process optimization, user education, and cross-functional collaboration make him an invaluable partner for brands scaling their operations. Oh—and he’s cool. When he’s not helping brands stand out on the shelf, you can probably catch him behind the DJ booth at one of your favorite Austin, TX hot spots.

ERIC AMATO

CONTROLLER

Eric is a seasoned CPA delivering a full range of tax and accounting services with professionalism and precision. His deep expertise in financial reporting, tax compliance, and strategic planning is matched by a meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to ethical accounting practices. Eric is known for his ability to manage multiple customer accounts efficiently while maintaining a high standard of accuracy and care. His approachable demeanor, paired with a strong sense of integrity and compassion, makes him a trusted advisor to customers and a valued member of our team.

ASAD PATHAN

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Asad is an accomplished marketing, sales, and operations specialist who currently leads the India operations for PCKG, overseeing the full spectrum of business activities. From costing and logistics to project management and client servicing. With extensive experience in the Flexible Packaging Industry across the MENA region, he brings both a regional perspective and deep operational insight to the table. A postgraduate in Packaging Science & Technology from the SIES School of Packaging, Asad combines technical expertise with a sharp commercial mindset. He’s known for his ability to manage complex projects end-to-end, ensuring efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and long-term value. Passionate, hands-on, and deeply committed, Asad treats every business he works with as his own, making him a trusted leader and a key driver of growth for the organization

AKIF SARANG

PROJECT MANAGER

Akif is a passionate and versatile creative professional with over six years of experience managing a wide range of projects across multiple industries. He’s worked hands-on with hundreds of clients, manufacturers, and vendors, earning a reputation for being both highly adaptable and exceptionally reliable. What really sets Akif apart is his ability to think outside the box. He brings fresh, imaginative ideas to every project, whether it’s animation, 3D design, event space design, or packaging. He’s incredibly hardworking, always eager to develop his skills further, and approaches every challenge with a positive, can-do attitude. He’s driven, collaborative, and genuinely invested in creating work that makes a real impact.

SADAF SARANG

HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER

Sadaf is an MBA graduate specializing in human resources management and personnel administration. Known for her unique balance of warmth and authority, Sadaf leads her team with care, empathy, and clear direction. She's the perfect blend of sweet and spicy—approachable and supportive, yet unafraid to lay down the law when needed. Her people-first mindset, combined with a firm grasp on HR strategy, makes her an invaluable asset focused on cultivating strong, motivated teams.