“Also, we wanted a new machine to maintain our quality. We met the Komori India team at Pamex Mumbai when we went for the NAEP function and they suggested Komori Enthrone 429. We were impressed with its features, automations, affordability and availability. Later, the lockdown delayed the process. However, we were in constant interactions and planned the delivery and installation timeline as per our convenience. The Komori team did a great job in ensuring timely delivery and smooth installation. They also provided training to our staff,” Moses explained.

Along with the Komori, the company has also invested in a new CTP from TechNova and pre-press workflow from Apogee. “This has reduced our pre-press TAT significantly and brought a great deal of standardisation,” he added.

Alois Graphics started with an AB Dick Mini offset machine imported from USA in 1995. In 2000, the company upgraded to an offset printing machine. Later in 2005, it moved to its own premises and upgraded with a double demy machine. After that it purchased one more offset machine.

Over the years, the company has won many accolades including the National Award for Print Quality at NAEP.

The company is into commercial printing, focusing mainly on magazines, books, posters, etc. Aniyan K Moses, the proprietor, is supported by his elder son, Moses K Aniyan. He takes care of operational activities.

Moses said the major challenge in the printing business right now is price drop due to competition.
Printing rates are going down while all other costs are increasing. Printers should unite and support each other and arrest this price drop. Another challenge is decreasing trends in reading pattern and increasing digitalisation. Commercial printing will face a big challenge in coming years. But, at the same time, there will be a boom in packaging. So we should adapt to this quickly and diversify the products which we are serving,” he said.

On technology adaptation he said earlier, the company follows traditional workflow\ operational procedures. “Then we reached a stage where there was no other way to serve customer faster. So we had to jump into new technology\ automation. First, we educated the workforce on the benefits of new technology. Also the installation and trainings from Komori India was professional and this helped our team members,” Moses said.

Since the installation, he said, the company has seen a great improvement in its delivery schedules. “Now, we are able to switch to different jobs in less time. Also wastage is now less, which has helped us to reduce material cost significantly. Automations on ink control and other chemicals have reduced their costs too,” he added.

With the new machine, Moses said, the company is expecting to reduce its cost and increase operating margin. “If printing comes back to normal post-Covid, we would get the investment back in five to six years,” he concluded.