In Greece, Theo Skagias is Redefining His Family Business

Under the leadership of Theo Skagias, SKAG in Greece has diversified far beyond stationery and notebooks, now boasting an impressive portfolio of over 3,000 SKUs at his family-owned business. A key part of SKAG's growth: installing the region’s first HP Indigo 18K press to support a growing demand for packaging.

Rather than falling into the “third-generation curse” of selling or stagnating, Theo insists SKAG will “break that cycle.” He said, “We’re pushing into packaging, investing in digital print technology and saying, 'We’re not just stationery anymore.” By embracing diversification, he’s cementing SKAG’s future and ensuring the business continues to create wealth and value across generations.

SKAG’s shift into packaging has already opened doors. Theo shared an example: a water-bottle brand approached after spotting the Indigo capabilities, and that same parent company has shown strong interest. “It was a light‑bulb moment. They saw Indigo’s flexibility and said, ‘We want that,’” Theo said.

Theo also emphasized his strategic use of AI. SKAG is beginning to use AI-generated images for designs and looking at chatbots for customer service. He explained that these new tools support early-stage ideation and even enable smarter, automated interactions.

Yet significant change requires cultural transformation. Theo highlighted the challenge of guiding long-tenured staff through diversification. He’s balancing investments in new technology with internal leadership training, clear communication and a shared vision to move everyone forward together.

Theo’s journey shows that growth comes when leaders are willing to imagine beyond what’s always been, and lean into what could be.