Curtain-raiser to Print Summit: Promises to be bigger and better — The Noel D’Cunha Sunday Column

As anticipation builds for Print Summit 2025, the energy is palpable. The theme "Be Unstoppable" will rekindle the excitement from the previous edition.

Faheem Agboatwala, the summit's chairperson, encapsulates a spirit of resilience and determination that resonates deeply with attendees and industry leaders alike. “Come what may, we will do better; that’s the only way,” he states passionately, inviting participants to delve into their interpretations of what it truly means to be unstoppable in the dynamic world of print and packaging.

Print Summit (PS) is not your ordinary conference; it’s a vibrant convergence of diverse voices that challenge the status quo. With an impressive lineup of speakers, including industry titans like Anand Kripalu, Bharat Goenka, Neelandra Singh and KBS Anand, the event promises to be a treasure trove of insights. Agboatwala believes this diversity is the unique selling point of the summit, asserting, “PS is not a conference; it’s a confluence.” It’s a space where multifaceted knowledge flows freely, inspiring fresh ideas and fostering inclusive dialogue amid the intricacies of the print industry.

Igniting ideas for disruption
The summit will tackle key trends and challenges shaping the Indian print and packaging landscape. With pressing topics such as the transformative role of AI and the integration of fulfilment in the work culture, attendees will explore a myriad of avenues to galvanise their thinking. “We hope to address the huge topics that impact our future and get people to start thinking,” Agboatwala remarks, highlighting the importance of proactive engagement in an ever-evolving industry.

In this year’s Print Summit, attendees can expect not just knowledge but a call to action, encouraging them to embrace their unstoppable spirit and drive positive change within their organisations. With the promise of exploration and excitement, the event is set to be an exhilarating experience like no other.

As Print Summit 2025 begins, it’s clear that the event aims to be more than just a series of presentations; it’s a vibrant melting pot of ideas, insights, and inspirations.

Agboatwala, who founded the Bombay Master Printers Association’s unique Share to Benefit Forum, believes in the transformative power of an open mind: “Our goal is to ignite ideas, not preach. The onus is on the delegates to seize the moment and extract learning from every interaction—be it the profound sessions or even the subtle exchanges with the backstage crew.” His energy reflects a commitment to fostering an environment where every participant can thrive.

Sessions to get your pulse racing
This year's Print Summit is not without its highlights, particularly two sessions that are set to promise memorable experiences.

The use of dynamic video footage in ITK’s presentation will capture the audience's imagination, complemented by the engaging guftagu led by K Selvakumar alongside Khushru Patel.

Not to be overshadowed, Milap Shah’s discourse with the vibrant young thinkers exploring the realm of AI is bound to spark conversations long after the final curtain falls.

Agboatwala underscores the importance of these carefully curated sessions: “Iqbal and Milap have poured months of effort into these discussions, ensuring extensive interaction with our panellists. I can’t wait for the audience to see the final result”

Amid these enriching talks, one name that has piqued attendees' interest is the legendary sports commentator Harsha Bhogle. Known for his magnetic presence and insightful observations, he’s sure to captivate the audience. Agboatwala reveals, “Since announcing his participation, the flood of messages about people’s excitement to engage with him live has been overwhelming. We’re committed to ensuring maximum interaction, aiming to give ample time for audience questions during this session—it's the opportunity everyone will want to be a part of!"

Agboatwala: Global challenges require a shakeup, maybe a jump start in the way we rethink

As the summit unfolds, it promises an invigorating mix of learning, networking, and sheer joy—exactly what the industry needs to navigate today’s global challenges. “Global challenges require a shakeup, maybe a jump start in the way we rethink,” Agboatwala asserts, hinting at the thrilling revival promised by Maestro Taufiq Qureshi’s invigorating percussion that will stir minds and bodies alike.

Reflecting on past summits, Agboatwala recalls a particularly touching moment: “Sonam Wangchuk’s heartfelt appeal to love a simple life resonated deeply, reminding us of our connection to the world outside urban hustle.” Such moments, rich with meaning, are what PS25 seeks to replicate - an event not just to attend but to experience in all its rolling energy and vibrant community spirit.

Economic shifts and opportunities in print and packaging
As India's GDP growth slows to 5.7% in Q2 2024, a silver lining emerges with resilient rural demand, particularly reflected in the surge of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sales. This trend presents a golden opportunity for the print and packaging industry, which is well-positioned to adapt to the shifting economic landscape. 

Agboatwala emphasises India's sheer scale of opportunities: "With a 1.5-billion population, the opportunities are humongous.” The very thought of a mere 1% shift in consumer behaviour could unleash a tidal wave of demand for packaged products. “Think about this – if just one per cent of tea drinkers move from loose tea in plastic bags to branded tea, we would require huge facilities to meet that demand,” he elaborates.

This potential extends beyond just tea; the post-pandemic world has seen a growing inclination towards hygiene products, especially disposable items. “Manufacturers of hygiene products have been laughing their way to the bank for the past five years,” he adds, showcasing how changing consumer habits can lead to significant growth within the sector.

In the realm of print, the debate around the future of offset sheetfed printing versus inkjet printing is heating up. As digital printing takes centre stage, Agboatwala identifies an intriguing angle to the transformation: individualisation.

He notes, “The moment a project requires individualisation, digital comes in and demolishes the price disadvantage over conventional methods.” This statement underlines the power of digital transformation in creating customised products and enhancing affordability for businesses and consumers alike.

Going further, Agboatwala believes that the next step for manufacturers is to democratise the ink supply. “Once control and pricing rationalise, digital will be much more mass market than it is in its current avatar,” he asserts, hinting at the promising future of digital printing in India. This evolution isn’t just about technology but rather about redefining the entire landscape of manufacturing and consumer interaction.

PS25 is unfolding at the Tata Theatre at NCPA Nariman Point on 16 January 2025

The key to staying unstoppable
It's clear that the path to success is paved with a willingness to adapt and innovate.

A case-study in short. In 1975, Kodak was the world's most powerful photo company, worth USD 31-billion. By 2012, they were completely bankrupt. Not because of competition or technology - but because of one fatal decision, which became their biggest mistake. Kodak invented the digital future. Then killed it to protect the past. Sometimes, your biggest threat isn't your competition. It's your success which is blinding you from innovating.

Agboatwala says, “I one hundred per cent agree that we must innovate to survive,” Agboatwala acknowledges. “Sometimes, complacency blinds us to the need for progress. At BMPA, we don’t let that happen.” His reference to Kodak’s downfall serves as a stark reminder that success can sometimes become a stumbling block.

With a nod to his decade-long PS journey, Agboatwala shares his commitment to the next generation, stating, “PS26 will see me stepping down as chairman, allowing the new generation to bring in new and unstoppable ideas to Print Summit.” This bold decision embodies his belief in fostering innovation and staying relevant—essentials for any industry hoping to thrive.

As we reflect on these insights, it's evident that the road to being ‘unstoppable’ lies in our willingness to innovate, adapt, and, sometimes, step aside and let fresh ideas blossom. In the words of Agboatwala, it’s time for a new chapter: “Long live print – long live PS.” 

PS25 is unfolding at the Tata Theatre at NCPA Nariman Point on 16 January 2025. Tickets for the show can be purchased online by visiting.