Strategic shifts in 2024 guide innovations through sustainability in 2025 (Part II) — The Noel D’Cunha Sunday Column

Domino India’s Ajay RaoRane: New dynamics

The market has seen an influx of new entrants, many of whom are expanding operations by investing in new machines. This competition is intensifying challenges for existing label converters, particularly in customer retention and margin preservation. To address this, Domino focussed on innovation, launching the N610i-H platform at Labelexpo India 2024. This compact five-colour digital label press integrates inline priming and varnishing, reducing setup time and wastage while increasing operational efficiency.

Our K-series high-speed monochrome printers have gained traction in the variable data printing market, and our N610i press platform has seen widespread installations. This trend is expected to continue into the final quarter of FY24, leading to double-digit growth in India and key global markets. Interest in the Domino N730i is also growing, with leading Indian label converters exploring its capabilities at the company’s Centre of Excellence in the Netherlands. We plan to bring the N730i to Indian converters in early 2025.

At Labelexpo Americas, Domino introduced key enhancements to its digital label press offerings, including the upgraded N730i with R-Scan, an inline vision inspection system that verifies prints at speeds of up to 70 metres per minute. We also introduced an Integration Module for the N730i, allowing converters to configure a hybrid press with multiple flexo stations, inline die-cutting, and other customisations. In India, the launch of the N610i-H press at Labelexpo India further solidified Domino’s commitment to the local market. This machine meets the demand for inline priming and varnishing in a compact footprint. We anticipate installing several units by March 2025.

Domino’s investment in research and development remains a priority. “We recently expanded our digital printing ink manufacturing facility in Liverpool with a GBP 6.6-million investment. This enables us to control the end-to-end production of digital printing solutions, from printheads to UV digital inks, ensuring consistent quality and adaptability to evolving customer requirements.

Empowera Technorganics’s Rahul Mahajan: Decisive shift

Companies are actively seeking alternatives to plastic, especially in food and general packaging. Our water-based barrier coatings and food-grade adhesives have been well received due to their recyclability and their ability to reduce plastic use. This trend has also extended to eCommerce and quick commerce, where paper-based solutions are gaining prominence. We have developed a range of high-performance adhesives and coatings tailored to this sector’s requirements.

A major milestone for Empowera in 2024 was the launch of Empress, a new range of pressroom chemicals. Empress was developed to address the changing demands of the printing industry while helping companies achieve sustainability goals. The company also expanded its reach in food packaging, eCommerce, and luxury segments through its eco-friendly materials. This commitment to sustainability and product innovation has strengthened its domestic and international presence.

Looking ahead to 2025, Empowera is positioning itself to leverage key industry trends, including sustainability, high-speed automation, and the growth of eCommerce and premium packaging. Our water-based coatings, high-performance adhesives, and tailored solutions align with these trends, allowing us to help customers enhance efficiency, sustainability, and market differentiation.

To meet the rising demand in 2025, Empowera plans to expand its manufacturing capacity, invest further in R&D, and strengthen customer partnerships. A major highlight for 2025 will be the introduction of new high-performance and sustainable solutions. We are increasing our focus on R&D to develop formulations that will enhance operational efficiency while meeting sustainability objectives. Among these innovations will be bio-based formulations that reduce reliance on petrochemicals and high-performance adhesives that minimise material consumption without compromising strength.

Enkey Enterprise and Taarget Papers’ Pratik Gandhi: Growth in 2025

In 2024, advancements in technology, AI-driven automation, and sustainability shaped the industry. The printing industry reached an estimated USD 420-billion, driven by the shift to eco-friendly papers and the rise of on-demand printing. We positioned ourselves as a reliable procurement partner and trusted supplier, ensuring we are ‘perfectly placed, perfectly timed.’

Enkey Enterprise and Taarget Papers strengthened their market presence through strategic partnerships and introduced premium fine paper and board solutions. Our products, including Lana Grey Board, Koehler Uncoated Fine Papers, and Sappi Coated Papers, gained traction in the market. One of the highlights was gKraft, a cellulose-based packaging paper from The Navigator Company, which debuted at PrintPack.

Despite facing supply chain disruptions, rising freight costs, and inflation, the company navigated challenges through strategic inventory management and accurate demand forecasting. With over 30 years of experience, we’ve built a robust stocking capacity of 700 MT of premium paper and boards, ensuring timely and cost-effective solutions for our customers.

Enkey Enterprise and Taarget Papers will also introduce gKraft, a virgin fibre-based packaging solution that combines strength, durability, and biodegradability. As sustainability takes centre stage, gKraft aligns with the global move toward recyclable and biodegradable packaging.

By investing in customer support, R&D, and innovative product solutions, Enkey Enterprise and Taarget Papers remain committed to helping businesses stay competitive in a rapidly evolving industry. Our focus on sustainability, efficiency, and quality ensures we continue to provide forward-thinking solutions for the printing and packaging community.

Fujifilm India’s Priyatosh Kumar: Smart printing

The industry has embraced transformative technologies that streamline production and reduce environmental impact. Fujifilm India leveraged these trends with strategic product launches, including the Jet Press FP 790 flexible packaging press, designed to deliver high operational efficiency while utilising water-based inks for greater sustainability.

Additionally, at Pamex 2024, the company introduced the Apeos series A3 multifunction printers, which cater to diverse printing needs with high-speed output, expanded banner printing capabilities, and seamless cloud integration via Microsoft’s Universal Print solution.

Fujifilm India achieved high double-digit growth in both segments, capitalising on the expanding general commercial (GC) print market in India. The momentum was further fuelled by the introduction of the FP 790 Digital Flexible Packaging Press, unveiled at Drupa 2024, which is set to redefine short-to-medium-run packaging with high precision and minimal waste. Additionally, Fujifilm’s next-generation five-colour presses in the mid-segment production category are poised for an Indian launch, further enhancing the company’s offering in the commercial print space.

Beyond equipment, Fujifilm India’s contribution to industry productivity was evident in workflow integration and automation. We introduced AI-driven automation, processless plates, and advanced workflow tools like XMF Workflow, enabling our customers to streamline operations, reduce waste, and enhance profitability.

Fujifilm India plans to lead this transformation with water-based ink technologies, processless plates, and next-gen automation solutions.

In terms of installations and growth, the company aims to maintain its strong double-digit expansion in FY 2025, aligning with its continued business success.

Galgo Fine Papers’s Suneet Jain: Opportunities galore

Galgo introduced several new products in 2024, reinforcing its position as a pioneer in sustainable and high-performance papers. Among the highlights was Rendezvous Premier, a fine paper that combines texture, brilliance, and efficiency. Another standout was Magno Volume from Sappi, a smooth, non-reflective fine paper that enhances coated print images. The company also launched Silvana, a 100% recycled paper that retains the performance and texture of a non-recycled alternative, as well as Natural, a neutral-toned paper available in a wide grammage range with excellent sheet formation for premium printing.

Despite the challenges posed by rising production costs and global supply chain disruptions, particularly due to geopolitical tensions and the Red Sea crisis, Galgo successfully navigated these obstacles through a forward-thinking business strategy. 2024 brought its share of challenges, but with a strong business vision and a proactive approach, we ensured uninterrupted paper supply. We also absorbed price increases wherever possible, keeping our commitment to our customers intact. The company is preparing for a major transformation in 2025, with big announcements set to reshape the Indian paper industry.

As the industry moves forward, luxury rigid packaging is expected to see further advancements in textures, shapes, and customisation, alongside a continued emphasis on sustainability. In 2025, we will be expanding our portfolio with new varieties that go beyond the ordinary, adding elegance, strength, and expressiveness to brand print and packaging needs.

Galgo’s latest product portfolio is designed with evolving consumer preferences, material innovations, and the growing strategic importance of print and packaging in mind. Our focus is on fine, luxury, and sustainable papers together, ensuring that brands can create packaging that not only looks premium but also aligns with global sustainability goals.

Looking into 2025, Galgo will continue its mission of bringing new concepts and innovative products to the market, ensuring that luxury and sustainability remain central to its approach. Sustainability remains king. Our commitment to introducing new paper ranges with sustainability as the main focus will continue. We see the Indian print and packaging industry as our extended family and will keep bringing new innovations that support sustainability, while also delivering luxury and elegance.

Indo Polygraph Machinery’s Shashank Surana: Growing demand

While the industry is experiencing significant growth, average run lengths are getting shorter every year. The emphasis on faster makeready and lower waste cannot be overstated. This is why we see a growing demand for highly automated machines that can drive operational efficiencies.

The company had a successful year, particularly at Drupa 2024, which led to a series of new sheetfed press orders. It was a landmark year for us in two key areas. We sold the first RotaJet in Asia, our state-of-the-art reel-to-reel digital printing machine designed for the high-demand décor segment. Additionally, we secured our first sale of a metal printing line, which includes both a coating machine and a printing press.

At Drupa 2024, Indo Polygraph showcased a range of technological advancements, particularly in the Rapida series. With the flagship Rapida 106 X, K&B have the fastest sheetfed press on the market, running at speeds of up to 22,000 sheets per hour. Another significant development was the integration of a fully automatic coating plate change system with the printing plate change mechanism. K&B is the only manufacturer offering a press without a conventional sidelay, eliminating common registration issues that many print shops face.

The company also received strong market interest in its VariJet 106, a sheetfed digital press, and CutPro-X, a rotary die-cutter capable of embossing, creasing, die-cutting, stripping, and blanking in a single pass at speeds of up to 15,000 sheets per hour.
India is witnessing a surge in consumerism, which is directly driving printing and packaging requirements. We expect 2025 to be a very strong year not only for offset but also for our digital and flexo machines.

Insight Print’s Ajay Agarwal: Digital transition

The pandemic acted as a catalyst for change, pushing the industry toward more agile and sustainable solutions. Insight Print Communications stayed ahead of this transition with its vision of helping the print industry transition to digital and introduced cutting-edge solutions tailored for this evolving demand.

The company achieved significant milestones in 2024, securing the highest market share in digital inkjet web press solutions. With over 12 installations of the Atexco Vegapress 440/660, we have set an industry benchmark. The company also strengthened its presence in photo album printing with Fujifilm Revoria and reinforced its leadership in signage and display through HP Latex machines. These achievements underscore Insight’s ability to deliver sustainable and high-performance solutions across multiple printing segments, including decor and packaging.

One of the standout product launches in 2024 was the introduction of the Atexco Vegapress 440/660/C/M to the Indian market.

Looking ahead to 2025, Insight Print Communications is set to leverage two major trends: AI-driven automation and green printing technologies. Product innovation will continue to be a key focus in 2025, with new solutions designed to address the evolving needs of printers and converters.

Sustainability remains at the core of Insight Print Communications’ long-term strategy. Our portfolio of environmentally responsible solutions includes HP Latex, which offers the highest environmental credentials for signage and decor, Atexco Vegapress for offset-to-digital transition, Scodix for digital embellishment without chemical processes, and Fujifilm Revoria for energy-efficient photo album and commercial printing. The company also continues to expand digital textile and label solutions that reduce
resource consumption while delivering premium results.

Komori India’s Jitender Rohilla: Eight-colour is the norm

The market in India is shifting towards eight-colour presses, with the 837P segment gaining traction. The trend towards eight-colour presses is now evident in India. We see strong growth in this segment, and I expect it to reach good numbers next year.
In packaging, printers are increasingly demanding larger sizes. Right now, the maximum size in India is 105, but we have received enquiries for presses larger than 106. Komori offers a 44-inch size that caters to multiple segments, and we believe this size will gain traction. Special configurations are also in demand, with Komori delivering its first eight-colour UV press to Kora and special configuration presses with coaters and dryers to Pragati.

Automation is another priority as printers look to reduce dependence on skilled labour. Three years ago, a six-colour press was considered a dream for many packaging printers. Today, seven-colour presses are the benchmark, and eight-colour configurations with UV and IR are becoming the norm.

Komori’s GL 37 series has gained popularity in both publishing and packaging. This size is ideal for publishers and the commercial sector. Customers printing 1825 or 1926 formats can now print eight-up instead of four-up, effectively doubling production. The 37-series also features full automation, making it a compelling option for printers with cost constraints who cannot invest in a 40-inch press. The pharma and perfume packaging industries, which require smaller runs, have embraced this format.

Komori has gained a dominant market share in India, installing over 60 machines between April 2024 and March 2025. We started in 2007 from the grassroots level, when barely anyone in India knew about Komori. We built our brand from the ground up, starting with commercial printers before entering packaging in 2014. Today, we hold over 60% market share. The company has installed nearly 150 Enthrone presses, with the Enthrone 429 being a particular game-changer.

Another highlight at Drupa 2024 was the LP 140, a large-format press ideal for single-run printers. We have already sold two LP 140 presses—one to Thomson and one to Tintpoint. In India, RP machines will gain traction in the next two years. While the high cost of RP machines has limited demand, Komori is already in discussions with major packaging players who are considering investments in specialised configurations, including 5+5, 4+4, and 4+6 coaters.

Looking ahead, Komori expects to install 70 machines in India in 2025, up from 60-65 this year. The market could see over 120 installations next year. The company is preparing for increased demand with innovations like the LSX 6 to 9, which features drive and security enhancements.

Kunal Enterprises’s Ajay Gandhi: Niche has potential

At Kunal Enterprises, we adapted by focussing on industrial printing applications, such as textile transfer, automobile decals, and credit card printing. These niche areas have shown tremendous growth potential.

We installed several machines in ceramic transfer printing, credit card printing with foiling, and textile transfer printing. These installations have strengthened our presence in niche markets and demonstrated our commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions.

One of the standout achievements of the year was the introduction of printing on uneven surfaces, such as golf balls, watches, and Swiss knives. We partnered with Teca Print, a Swiss manufacturer of pad printing machines, to bring this innovation to life. Drupa 2024 was a success for us—we sold several machines and generated significant interest from potential clients.

The emerging trends in 2025 will be value addition and diversification in industrial printing. We’ve already positioned ourselves by partnering with Teca Print for pad printing machines and NSM, a Swiss company, for lab-to-fab machines that support a wide range of printing processes.

Our partnership with NSM enables customers to invest in lab-to-fab machines for small-scale production and sample development. Once they secure orders, they can scale up with high-end printing lines. Additionally, our collaboration with Sakurai Graphic Systems Corporation in Japan offers clean room facilities for trial projects, empowering clients to innovate and grow.