Why should the Indian print players visit PrintPack? What are the applications that are driving businesses in different segments?
PrintPack will be the largest international print-centric event in 2019, combining an extensive content programme with hundreds of international companies demonstrating the latest global technologies and applications, making it an event not to be missed. We have more than 480 exhibitors in the 14th edition of PrintPack 2019.

Quite a few Indian printers are going to attend the show, what are the different product launches that should excite them?
A host of new technologies are being launched – some from first time exhibitors – with more scheduled to be announced at the event itself, with many exhibitors keeping their news under wraps until the event opens on the 1 February (Friday).

We are in 2019, what’s your goal for the next 12 months?
My goals for the next 12 months have already been set. First, we have to deliver a successful PrintPack India 2019. It has already acquired the status of one of the most recognised exhibitions at par with many prestigious international exhibitions in UK, the USA, China, Japan and Germany. We will reach out to all other related associations, who are also supporting IPAMA in accomplishing the objectives already set out by it. In the next 12 months, we will also concentrate on the formation of a Federation for Graphic Arts Industry Associations, which we had started few months ago, many of them have already given their consent.

As I am also the president of Asia Print and vice president of Global Print, my focus will be on expanding our reach both in Asia and across the world. My hands are full and I look forward to hectic period of activities in the next 12 months, including participation in important international events, with a view to boost our exports in the world market.

How has PrintPack grown?
PrintPack is now acclaimed as international event. It has become an international platform and meeting point for all prestigious corporates, agencies, Indian and foreign manufacturers and suppliers associated with the graphic arts industry.  In one word, the East and the West meet at PrintPack, every two years, to show a new direction to the printing and packaging industry through changing technology, trends, techniques, practices, products and services for the benefit of the industry, customers and the economy. The increasing demand and prestige, edition after edition are the proof of that. That is the reason why we are always on the lookout for new concepts and strategies which are useful for the industry.

Selling is not easy. What are the customers telling you about the print industry – bullish and robust or doom and gloom?
I agree. But I am a salesman at the core of my heart.  I have tried my best and succeeded in selling all my products to both national and international customers relating to 14th edition of Printpack 2019 and demonstrated dedicated team spirit. We have, for the first time, sold out the entire 45,000 sqm exhibition space, two months before the commencement of the event. The demand of space is still coming every day. Our product has carved out a niche area for itself. Our customers and industry are very upbeat about their future. We are all very happy to further enhance the prestige of IPAMA in the world and bring laurels to the country. The print industry is bullish and robust with great future.