Getting to know director Jonas Elvikis: what did professional sports teach him and how does Bagfactory differ from other companies?
Sports helped me develop a mindset that is now very useful in business: never give up, constantly look for ways to do better, and understand that even every failure is an opportunity to grow,” says Jonas Elvikis, director of Bagfactory. The director’s thoughts are based on solid foundations, as Elvikis not only has solid experience working in various businesses, but also more than a decade of experience playing professional basketball.
How does J. Elvikis feel working at Bagfactory? What were his first impressions when he joined the company? What does the director see as unique here, and how does he think Bagfactory will look in the near future?
All this is discussed in a short interview with the director of Bagfactory.
What was your first impression when you started working at Bagfactory? What had you heard about the company before?
My first impression was very positive—when I joined Bagfactory, I immediately felt the high energy, diligence, and motivation of the company’s team, as well as how important it is for the company to strive for the highest goals.
Even before joining Bagfactory, I was well aware that it is the largest manufacturer of eco-friendly non-woven and paper bags in the Baltic States. The company has received numerous international awards and collaborates with well-known global retail chains such as Lidl, Aldi, and Netto. Most importantly, however, I knew that Bagfactory is one of the few companies in Lithuania that treats ecology not as a marketing tool, but as a genuine principle of operation. This strongly motivated me and reinforced my desire to become part of a team that thinks responsibly and innovatively.
Tell us more about your work experience. Where did you gain your knowledge and skills?
Before joining Bagfactory, I gained over a decade of management experience across various manufacturing and industrial companies, working in sales, export, and business development roles. During this time, I was involved not only in sales and marketing, but also in developing strategic plans for company growth.
I managed the sales department at one of the largest polyethylene film manufacturers in the Baltic States, where my role involved not only delivering financial results, but also driving the implementation of more sustainable production solutions. These experiences gave me a broad understanding of production process management, team motivation, and long-term business value creation.
Bagfactory positions itself as an eco-friendly company. What is your relationship with sustainability?
Sustainability is not just a business direction for me—it is also a personal value. I strongly believe that the world we leave to future generations matters, and that businesses must take the lead by setting an example in sustainability, while individuals also share responsibility for making sustainable choices.
I am delighted that Bagfactory’s philosophy aligns closely with my personal values—we do not merely speak about sustainability; we actively implement solutions that reduce pollution, promote recycling, and encourage responsible consumption.
How does working at Bagfactory differ from other companies?
Bagfactory is a highly dynamic organisation—we never stand still. We are constantly experimenting and exploring more efficient, environmentally friendly production methods. Unlike many traditional manufacturing companies, sustainability here is not an additional feature; it is the foundation of our entire business strategy.
Moreover, Bagfactory employees come to work each day not only to perform their roles, but also to drive meaningful change. They understand that their work contributes to a more sustainable future, which creates a strong sense of engagement and a shared understanding of why we do what we do.
Tell us about your daily life and hobbies outside of work.
I spent a significant part of my life—more than ten years—playing professional basketball, so it is only natural that sport and an active lifestyle remain an important part of my everyday life. Outside of work, I continue to prioritise physical activity, as it helps clear my mind and provides me with additional energy for professional challenges.
In addition, I devote a great deal of my time outside work to my family—maintaining a healthy balance between professional ambitions and personal relationships is essential to me. Time spent with loved ones provides strong inner motivation and serves as a reminder of what truly matters.
Can years of experience in sports be applied to work?
Without a doubt, my many years of experience in professional sport have taught me not only discipline, but also the ability to achieve results regardless of circumstances. Sport shapes a strong mindset—never giving up, continuously seeking improvement, and recognising that every setback is an opportunity to grow. Team leadership, strategic thinking, and resilience under pressure are skills I developed on the sports field and now apply in a business environment.
Where do you see Bagfactory in the next 3-5 years?
I would like Bagfactory to make a significant qualitative and quantitative leap forward over the next 3–5 years—from expanding production capacity and advancing technological innovation to achieving even stronger international recognition and reputation.
I hope the company will grow not only in terms of business performance, but also as an organisation where people genuinely want to work. In the coming years, I believe we can further strengthen our team culture, attract motivated talent, and create an environment in which employees are proud of their contribution to a more sustainable future.
