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 culinary graduate of the International Culinary Center and a proud coffee snob, Louisa has managed operations for multiple coffee brands and subscription giants, 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.

ERIC AMATO

CONTROLLER

Eric Amato, CPA, has been an integral part of our team, 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.