Strategic shifts in 2024 to guide innovation and sustainability in 2025 (Part III) — The Noel D’Cunha Sunday Column

Provin Technos’s Akshay Kaushal: Inkjet and packaging innovations

The market has started to embrace inkjet technology as a complementary solution to existing offset setups. While packaging has remained stable with steady growth, the book printing segment has been particularly dynamic. Our strong presence in this segment and a versatile product mix, allowed us to cater to book, commercial, and packaging printers successfully.

Provin Technos delivered strong installation numbers in 2024, with 16 press installations across India. This includes 11 RMGT presses, three Miyakoshi Inkjet presses, and two Miyakoshi narrow web offset presses. Among these, the RMGT 9 series eight-colour perfector stood out, with two more installations completed in the year. With Miyakoshi, we hit a milestone by installing three high-speed inkjet presses, the only ones of their kind in India, alongside two narrow web offset presses.

Innovation was central to the company’s growth strategy in 2024. Provin Technos introduced two new product lines—Spande for narrow web flexo and digital presses, and Smyth for book sewing solutions. Both brands are well-established globally but were not present in the Indian market. We anticipate a successful 2025 with these additions, particularly with Spande, as we look forward to Labelexpo Europe 2025, where more advancements will be introduced.

Sustainability remains a key priority. We have long championed energy-efficient printing with RMGT and Miyakoshi machines, as well as pioneering LED technology in India. In 2025, Provin Technos will introduce solutions that further reduce environmental impact while improving efficiency. RMGT has achieved a significant milestone, with 99.5% recyclability for all consumables used in production—a testament to our commitment to sustainability.

With a robust product portfolio, a strong foothold in inkjet and packaging, and an emphasis on sustainability and efficiency, Provin Technos is well-positioned to navigate the evolving landscape of 2025, ensuring continued success for its customers and the industry at large.

Kurz’s Jitender Pal Singh: All about embellishments

Sustainability shaped innovations and operational strategies across the sector. We significantly reduced the thickness of PET carrier films in our products. In hot foils, we transitioned from 12 microns to 10 microns, achieving a 25% reduction. In cold foils, we further, reduced the thickness to six microns, effectively halving polymer waste.

Kurz introduced the Recosys programme, designed to collect polymer waste and recycle it into granules for manufacturing recycled plastic products. Additionally, our RPET program focuses on recycling PET waste for reuse, further reducing environmental impact. The company also adopted green energy through solar panel installations to improve its carbon footprint metrics.

At Drupa, Labelexpo, and PrintPack, digital machines dominated discussions. Recognising this shift, Kurz introduced a range of digital foiling machines equipped with advanced features such as 3D and 2D decorative effects, personalisation options, and innovative ink-on-foil and foil-on-digital black toner technologies.

Kurz’s subsidiary, H+M, also contributed to the industry’s evolution with its stamping tools and dies. H+M’s innovations, including micro-embossing techniques and high-quality haptic and visual textures, inspired brands to create unique design patterns. When paired with Kurz foils, these tools enabled packaging solutions that stood out on shelves, enhancing both aesthetic appeal and brand value.

We introduced Ecofin, an economical hot foil, which allowed us to penetrate the low-end market segment while maintaining high-quality standards. The six-micron cold foil for web-fed applications also demonstrated significant advantages, including improved speed, smoother transfers, and reduced adhesive consumption. Additional specialty foil innovations included Silverline, an achromatic foil with 3D effects; Lumafin, a translucent stamping foil available in 700 pigment colours; and Lightline Invisible, a cold foil featuring holographic patterns in pigment colors for transparent object labels.

Kurz relocated to larger facilities in Noida and Mumbai and introduced high-speed converting machines to enhance production efficiency. Increased stock levels mitigated shipment delays, and the introduction of economical foils like Ecofin enabled customers to remain competitive in their respective markets.

New foils, including Silverline, Lumafin, Lightline Invisible, and holographic Lightline patterns, are set to captivate designers and brands, driving creativity and innovation. Kurz’s solutions for brand protection, which combine decoration with anti-counterfeiting features, will also play a key role in helping brands safeguard their products and enhance market share.

Kurz showcased two groundbreaking machines: Distorun, a cold transfer module with foil-saving features and variable positioning, and DM-Smartliner, a digital embellishment machine offering quick setup, high throughput, and custom-made hologram designs.

Konica Minolta’s Manish Gupta: Digital transformation

The shift towards short-run printing became more prominent, especially in tier-II and tier-III cities, as startups and small businesses sought efficient, localised solutions. Recognising this shift, Konica Minolta introduced innovative products tailored to meet the market’s evolving needs. At Labelexpo India 2024, we showcased the AccurioLabel 400, which features CMYK plus white capabilities. This was a direct response to the growing demand for high-quality labels with quick turnaround times.

Beyond product innovation, the company placed a strong emphasis on sustainability and automation. At Eastern Print Pack 2024, we demonstrated our commitment to sustainability by integrating AI-driven automation into print operations. These solutions not only enhance efficiency but also reduce environmental impact. We’ve expanded our digital printing systems across multiple sectors, reinforcing our market leadership in digital production printing. Our participation in Drupa 2024 was particularly significant, as it allowed us to showcase a diverse range of hardware and software products to an engaged global audience.

The year was also marked by product launches that had a profound impact on the industry. In 2024, we introduced the AccurioPress 7136, designed for high-volume monochrome printing with enhanced automation and production flexibility, we also launched the AccurioPress C14000, meeting the rising demand for vibrant, high-quality prints.

We plan to introduce new digital cutting and die-cutting solutions tailored to the needs of packaging and label producers. These will provide agility and efficiency, addressing the industry’s growing requirement for short-run production and quick turnaround times.

We have a strong belief that installations will see an increase of around 20% as more SMEs look for efficient technologies for printing. To meet this demand, we are expanding our distribution network and strengthening partnerships with local dealers.
On the product front, Konica Minolta plans to introduce cutting-edge innovations tailored to industry needs. We are set to launch the AccurioPress 140, a high-speed A4 printer with white toner capabilities. Additionally, we will enhance our Accurio Pro Flux workflow tools, helping customers automate processes and improve efficiency.

Sakata Inx’s VK Seth: Sustainable drive

Sakata Inx has worked closely with customers to introduce high-performance non-toluene, non-ketone (NTNK) and polyurethane-based inks designed for high-speed printing and improved recyclability.

In 2024, Sakata Inx reinforced its commitment to sustainability with the establishment of a state-of-the-art energy-curable ink plant in Panoli, which is now fully operational. The growing demand for energy-curable inks, which significantly reduce VOC emissions, has driven the company’s focus on UV-curable flexo and sheetfed inks, LED curing inks, and EB curing inks for flexible packaging. These technologies align with the industry’s shift towards more eco-friendly packaging solutions.

Sakata introduced several new products in 2024 to support the evolving needs of the packaging industry. Among these were LSG NT, a toluene-, ketone-, and vinyl-free PU-based ink system suitable for various lamination applications, and Bellecolor VF, a high-performance PU-based ink system that eliminates vinyl and NC components, enhancing recyclability and reducing health hazards.

The company also launched Belle Flora, a botanical ink containing over 10% plant-derived components, and VerifyMe, a security ink solution for anti-counterfeiting applications.

The focus is on offering innovative solutions that contribute to both print quality and environmental responsibility. From botanical inks to energy-curable solutions, we are working towards a more sustainable future.
Sakata’s R&D facilities in India, Japan, and the USA have played a crucial role in developing cutting-edge ink solutions. By leveraging expertise from its global network, the company has delivered cost-effective solutions tailored to the Indian packaging industry. Sakata’s ink management system has successfully helped customers optimise ink GSM, minimise shade-matching wastage, and improve print consistency.

Seth anticipates that 2025 will see continued advancements in sustainable packaging solutions, particularly in the recyclability of multilayer laminates.

Sakata Inx has seen strong adoption of its products, with 28 new gravure and four flexo presses installed in 2024. With flexible packaging projected to grow at 7-8% in 2025, the company is well-prepared to meet increasing demand. Its manufacturing plants in Bhiwadi and Panoli, as well as its facility in Bangladesh, provide a strong production base for future expansion. The Panoli plant for energy-curable inks is expected to play a key role in addressing industry needs for sustainable printing solutions.

In 2025, Sakata plans to expand its portfolio with advanced ink systems that enhance recyclability and reduce carbon emissions. The company is also introducing gas barrier coatings to improve the shelf-life of flexible packaging and moisture barrier coatings for additional protection. With the growing interest in water-based inks, Sakata is set to bring its established expertise in this area to the Indian market. Additionally, the Gelflex EB electron beam curing ink system for flexo printing will be further strengthened to support food-safe, energy-curable applications.

Flexo printing is gaining traction due to its lower carbon emissions compared to gravure printing. To support this shift, Sakata has introduced Innova Plus PU-based flexo ink for lamination and XFS-70 for surface printing, suitable for labels and ice cream cone packaging. The company has also integrated solar power into its factories and headquarters, achieving a 5% reduction in carbon emissions over the past year.

SP Ultraflex’s Biku Kohli: Shortrun is key

The industry is experiencing a transformative shift, with sustainability and the need for flexible production driving investment in digital technology. While digital printing still has room to mature, its adoption is already paving the way for a significant industry shift. SP Ultraflex responded to these trends by enhancing its slitter rewinders to support short-run jobs, reducing changeover times and increasing efficiency. At Drupa 2024, we showcased our Roboslit plus OHP 1,000-mpm slitter rewinder, which features a fully automatic job setup.

Unlike competing machines that automate only the cutting section, our solution automates the entire process, from unwind to cutting and rewinding, delivering saleable quality finished reels within the first few metres of production.
2024 was a defining year for SP Ultraflex, with notable installations across global markets. We made a significant impact at Drupa by running a live factory demonstration for 11 days, capturing the interest of the European market. The machine was shipped directly from the fairground to a leading wrap-around label converter in France. Additionally, the company supplied a 1,000-mpm  Roboslit plus dual turret slitter rewinder to one of Russia’s largest converters and delivered a range of inspection rewinder machines with advanced safety features, catering to high-precision applications such as defect detection, micro-perforation, and jumbo reel slitting.

SP Ultraflex’s focus on automation was central to its innovation strategy. At Drupa, we demonstrated the Roboslit plus OHP 1,000-mpm, featuring an automatic off-loader as part of a floor-to-conveyor material handling solution, a low-noise trim extraction system, and robust safety features such as area scanners and CCTV monitoring. The machine’s automatic job setup feature significantly reduces changeover time, improving efficiency and output. “Our customers, on average, perform ten job changes in 24 hours. With our automation, a 25-ups job setup can be completed in less than three minutes, compared to 20-25 minutes when done manually. This translates to nearly three extra hours of production per day and a 12.5% increase in output.

Sustainability will remain a core pillar of SP Ultraflex’s innovation strategy. Our latest advancements focus on energy efficiency and waste reduction, including the introduction of our Vacuum Trim Box, which replaces traditional noisy venturi systems for a quieter, cleaner shop floor environment.

The company’s investments in technology and customer support will continue in 2025. Innovation is in our DNA. Our Beyond Basics department within our design team is dedicated to pioneering new products and refining existing ones.

Suba Solutions’ V Vaidyalingam: Focus on corrugation

Environmental sustainability remains at the forefront of packaging industry priorities. We supplied our first coating transfer technology that eliminates the need for film on cartons. While the special film used in this process is currently expensive and has limited availability, we anticipate broader adoption as brands embrace sustainable alternatives. Corrugation and paperboard packaging continue to be key areas of focus for Suba due to environmental benefits.

The company achieved a strong performance in 2024, marked by its participation in Drupa and the expansion into new markets, including France, Mexico, Tanzania, Kenya, and parts of the Middle East. Expanding our reach to these geographies has been a major milestone. Our focus on commitment and professionalism has strengthened our presence in the industry. Suba has maintained its leadership in India across several segments, including flute laminators, die-cutters, blanking machines, window patchers, and folder gluers. The company has also regained ground in the film laminator market and continues to see growth in carton erection machines.

One of its key innovations has been the patented Quick Make Ready Kit for carton erection machines, which has reduced make-ready times from 120 minutes to just 20 minutes. The company’s DuoPaac corrugation lines, launched last year, have been well received, with multiple installations across India.

Suba has introduced new variants in its window patching solutions, including a pick-and-place version and a liner carton version. The company plans to evaluate field performance before scaling up production. “We remain focused on listening to our customers and ensuring that we bring solutions that truly address their needs,” says Vaidy.

At Suba, we expect over 10% market growth in 2025, though challenges persist, including buyback pressure from customers looking to replace older machines. Suba is continuing to innovate in its flagship Blankwiser blanking machines. We have launched a few new models and are waiting for market feedback before making further announcements. New products are in the pipeline and will be introduced at the right time.

Every product from Suba is designed with the lowest operating costs in mind. The cost of ownership for a Suba machine has to be the lowest in its category. An example of this is the Quick Make Ready Kit in its clamshell die-cutters, which has helped customers take on shorter-run food packaging jobs while reducing skill dependence on operators.

Toyo Ink Arets’ Prashant Atre: Product differentiation

Toyo Ink Arets successfully expanded its product portfolio in 2024, adding water-based inks for CI flexo and gravure printing on films and paper, along with LED inks for newspapers. The company was recognised by IFCA for its innovative contributions in these segments. This expansion aligned with the global transformation of the Toyo Ink Group, which rebranded as Artience to reflect its evolution beyond inks into broader material science applications.

At Drupa 2024, Toyo Ink Arets showcased its water-based CI flexo ink, a significant breakthrough in flexible packaging. The ink demonstrated exceptional print quality at high speeds of 400 metres per minute, marking a new milestone for sustainable packaging solutions. This technology not only provides an alternative to traditional solvent-based inks but also contributes to reducing carbon footprints across the supply chain.

Water-based inks represent a transformative shift for flexible packaging, aligning with global sustainability goals. Similarly, Artience’s LED inks enhance energy efficiency by eliminating mercury vapour lamps, making them a preferred choice for businesses focussing on eco-conscious printing.

The company also made a strong impact at Tokyo Pack 2024, introducing several new products aimed at improving efficiency and sustainability in packaging. Indian customers got a first-hand look at these innovations at PrintPack.

For Artience, sustainability is not just a strategic direction but a corporate mission. The company has outlined a clear vision for reducing its environmental footprint, targeting a 35% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2030, with a long-term goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

Our sustainability strategy is not limited to product innovation—it extends to how we manufacture, operate, and engage with stakeholders. By 2030, we aim for 80% of our sales to come from sustainability-enhancing products, scaling up to 100% by 2050.
Beyond its environmental commitments, Artience is also strengthening its ESG framework by embedding sustainability into corporate governance and operational practices.

We have restructured our R&D framework to integrate in-house expertise with external knowledge networks. Open innovation in environmental science, IT, and biotechnology is key to maintaining our competitive edge. By collaborating with leading institutions, we are ensuring continuous exposure to cutting-edge research.

Webtech International’s Shivnandan Singh: Flexo portfolio

The past year saw a strong push for flexible printing solutions, with increased demand for shorter runs, faster turnarounds, and sustainable packaging applications. Webtech responded by launching two advanced flexo presses with fully servo-driven options, including dual servo and single-servo configurations. A key highlight was the introduction of its mid-web flexo press in a 670 mm working width, designed specifically for flexible packaging. These machines have been engineered to enhance precision, reduce waste, and improve operational efficiency while meeting industry demands for environmentally friendly and cost-effective production.

Webtech marked a significant milestone in 2024 by securing orders for 24 flexo presses across both semi-servo and fully servo-controlled models. The introduction of the 670 mm working width mid-web flexo press opened new opportunities in flexible packaging, enabling converters to print on materials such as BOPP, polyester, LD, and PET. The ability to cater to thinner substrates, as low as eight microns, has set a new benchmark in the industry.

Looking ahead to 2025, Webtech anticipates major advancements in digital integration within flexographic printing, AI-powered automation, and sustainable packaging solutions. The company is investing in intelligent press technologies, including advanced registration systems and energy-efficient designs, to stay ahead of industry trends. With global demand for flexible packaging and label printing solutions on the rise, Webtech expects a 30-40% growth in installations and is scaling up production capacity to meet this demand. Expansion of its global distribution network and strategic partnerships with regional distributors will further strengthen its market presence.

Webtech is preparing to launch a hybrid flexo-digital press in 2025, offering converters a versatile solution that combines the best of both technologies. In mid-February, the company will also introduce a wide-width offset label press tailored for short-run jobs. Additionally, modular enhancements for existing flexo presses are in development to provide even greater automation and adaptability.

With sustainability taking centre stage, Webtech is integrating eco-friendly features into its 2025 product line, including low-energy consumption drying systems, advanced registration controls to reduce waste, and compatibility with sustainable substrates.

Zhongke India’s Rohit Rajpal: Smart manufacturing

Factories are prioritising sustainability to support a circular economy, focussing on waste reduction and energy conservation. Compliance with stringent food safety norms and the demand for advanced coatings, varnishes, and plastic-free production have also shaped packaging trends. Zhongke India has responded by expanding its product portfolio, incorporating smart technologies into high-speed, versatile machinery that offers eco-friendly solutions. We have embraced Smart Factory 4.0 practices, integrating digital applications to reduce waste and improve compliance with sustainable standards.

The past year saw remarkable growth for Zhongke India, both domestically and globally. The company strengthened its position through strategic partnerships and participation in Drupa 2024, where it launched Machnika, an Industry 4.0 initiative.
Zhongke India reaffirmed its dedication to green packaging by introducing a fibre molding production line at Drupa 2024. This new equipment is designed to replace plastic fitments with eco-friendly pulp-moulded trays, marking a significant shift toward sustainable packaging. The company also launched advanced digital mould-making technology to streamline production and reduce lead times.

Zhongke India anticipates a significant increase in equipment installations in 2025, driven by rising demand for advanced packaging solutions.

Innovation remains central to Zhongke India’s strategy, with plans to launch next-generation rigid box machines, advanced automation technologies, and sustainable packaging applications. We are introducing smart packaging features with digital tracking and intelligent design, enabling businesses to embrace efficiency and sustainability.

Sustainability will continue to be a priority in 2025. Our machines will integrate energy-efficient technologies, reducing power consumption and material waste while enhancing operational efficiency. By improving turnaround times and supporting the use of recyclable packaging materials, Zhongke India is helping businesses reduce their environmental footprint without compromising performance. Our Smart Factory 4.0 solutions will further enable companies to streamline operations and adopt greener practices.