“So, we opted for the machine for its features and immediate delivery, which is capable of processing our corrugated boxes of F, E and B flutes,” Bhargava said. “Both the A and B type of lock bottom cartons can be side glued by the glue wheel, which is an important feature of the machine- having glue pots on both left and right side, which went in its favour. We found it to be a reasonably good machine and value for money equipment.

We have been using the machine for the last couple of months and have not faced any problem technically or process wise. The after-sales service is very good or we can say upto the mark of any established company out of our existing suppliers. We are also happy with the company’s long-term vision and commitment for the Indian market.”

In a new development, Kumar Printers recently leased a 30,000-sqft area behind the existing factory to separate its corrugation business. “Corrugation is a growing segment in our business right now. It needs a larger separate space. We will continue to manufacture mono cartons and rigid boxes in the existing factory,” Bhargava said. 

Kumar Printers has recently installed a Heidelberg CX 104 seven-colour plus coater press, with an IST UV system and image control. This is the first such installation in north India.  The company has also installed a sample-maker from Kongsberg to replace its old sample-maker. “We have also installed a pre-owned Bobst die-cutter (500 hours used) and a flute-laminator from Suba Solutions,” Bhargava said.

These investments come after a hiatus of about 6 years. “After the installation of all the equipment, our total production capacity will be 1200 tonnes per month. Right now, it is 900 tonnes per month,” Bhargava said.

On the application side, the company has replaced foil stamping with gravure for one of its clients, which wanted to reduce the plastic usage in their carton production. For another client, it has replaced metPET with foil stamping, which makes the recycling of plastic used in packaging easier. “We have always been customer focussed and want to help the customer win in the market,” Bhargava concluded.