R.D. Plast, Delhi

Down in Sarojini Nagar, our little spot at number 117 is usually pretty loud. There is always the sound of machines or someone moving crates around on the floor. Working with plastic means things can get a bit messy, but we try to keep the shop floor organized so nobody trips over anything. Being in New Delhi, the heat gets heavy in the summer months, and the fans just move the warm air around while we work. We make all sorts of plastic items that people use every day without thinking much about it. It is a family-type atmosphere here, where everyone knows each other’s business and we share lunch on the small back table. Sometimes the traffic outside gets so backed up that the trucks can't reach us until late in the evening. We just wait it out and keep the machines running until the job is done. Some days are long, especially when a big order comes in and we have to stay past dark to finish the packing. The walls are a bit stained from years of work, and the floor has its fair share of scuffs, but it shows we actually do things here. We are just a local business trying to keep up with the demand. It is not glamorous, but it pays the bills and keeps the neighborhood moving. Most of the guys have been working here for years and they know the equipment better than anyone.