Dhote: Bharat Print Expo aims to bridge industry divides

The initiative, which covered 18 towns in Maharashtra and 12 in Karnataka, aimed to promote what is being billed as South India’s largest printing and packaging converting exhibition while addressing operational and strategic challenges faced by regional printers.

“Bharat Print Expo is more than an exhibition,” Dhote said. “With 250+ exhibitors, 150+ live machines, and 60+ product launches, it will be a platform for learning, collaboration, and transformation across flexo, offset, gravure and beyond.” 

The road show in Sholapur

Dhote urged printers to approach exhibitions with a buying mindset and as opportunities to understand new technologies and explore how they fit into their operations. “Informed investment decisions can significantly boost profitability,” he said.

A recurring theme throughout the roadshows was the need for structure in small and medium printing businesses. “It’s not a lack of resources, but a lack of process that often holds businesses back,” Dhote noted. “Introducing SOPs, better time management, and cleaner press floors can have a major impact.”

He also stressed that improved internal efficiency frees up time to nurture client relationships, which is vital in a trust-driven industry like print.

The road show in Belagavi

“The energy and curiosity from the community were inspiring,” Dhote said. “Bharat Print Expo in Bengaluru is set to channel that energy into a larger, more unified push for innovation and growth.”

As the roadshows conclude, Dhote remains optimistic: “The journey continues. The conversations we started on the road will culminate at the expo—and shape the future of Indian print.”