Brilliant Printers charts growth with ethics and process-driven management

Bengaluru-based Brilliant Printers’ Anil Rego sparked passion when he narrated his father's early career and how he worked his way up, gaining hands-on experience in operations and supervision. By 1970, his father established his own printing company in a modest 100-sqft space with a single treadle machine. Today, the company has grown to occupy over three-lakh-sqft of operational space, employing nearly a thousand people and exporting to 70 countries.

22 Feb 2025 | By Charmiane Alexander

Anil Rego of Brilliant Printers

Speaking at the Kerala Master Printers Association’s (KMPA) Print & Beyond conference in Kochi on 22 February 2025, Rego attributed this growth to a commitment to integrity and continuous adaptation. "We have built this business on strong ethical foundations. There have been times when we lost orders due to our principles, but these very values have ensured our long-term credibility," he said.

A crucial turning point came in 2014 when the company moved to a new facility, reinforcing its strategy of becoming a leading export-driven book printer. The investment in high-end book finishing equipment, including gilding machines, was part of a long-term vision. "Every investment we make is with sustainability in mind. We don’t overpromise returns; instead, we engage investors with realistic projections," said Rego.

The shift from a traditional family-run operation to a structured, process-driven organisation was another major transformation. The restructuring involved hiring professionals with expertise in business optimisation. "Process-driven management has been key to our scalability. Leadership is not about micromanagement but about building systems that allow the business to grow sustainably," he explained.

The Covid-19 pandemic brought challenges but also opportunities. A surge in book demand led to a 36% increase in sales. "Readers turned to books during lockdowns, and we adapted quickly. We set ambitious targets and aligned our expansion plans accordingly," Rego noted.

Financial discipline has also been a cornerstone of Brilliant Printers’ strategy. The company formalised budgeting practices, ensuring stability even during volatile market conditions. "Budgeting is not just about cost-cutting; it’s about sustainability. Monthly reviews allow us to adjust and remain resilient," Rego said.

Despite the rise of digital content, Rego believes printed books will continue to thrive. "The industry is evolving, but books remain relevant. Our focus is on enhancing our capabilities while staying true to our principles of quality and ethical business practices," he stated.

Rego plans further investments in technology and infrastructure. "We are in this for the long run. The next phase of growth will be defined by process efficiency and technological advancements, but our core ethos of integrity will remain unchanged," Rego concluded.