Panel discussion on ‘what to expect next in packaging’ packs a punch
The International Conference 2019 hosted by All India Printing Ink Manufacturers’ Association (AIPIMA) among presentations on disruptive technology – learn and adopt together, also featured a panel discussion on: Packaging in India 2019-2025 – What next? What more?
27 Mar 2019 | 10752 Views | By Noel D'Cunha
Ramu Ramanathan conducted the 60-min discussion with panellist comprising of Ankit Tanna of Printmann, Amar Chhajet and Marzban Thanevala of Huhtamaki and Ashwin Maheshwari of Avenue Graphics.
These are challenging times for the print and packaging industry, but they are interesting ones, and there are great opportunities too. Paper, cardboard and flexible packages have a fundamental and vital role to play for a sustainable future.
Take a look at the demographics. 1.3-bn people - 1 of every 6 people on the planet live in India. 17.9% of this population is in the age range of 15-24 years and 41.08% in the 25-54 age-group. And importantly 27.34% of those who are in the 0-14 years will become a part of the consumer world in the not-so-distant future, where packaging will play a big part in their daily life. When you add the aspiration of the middle-class which is growing, one will see the reason why the packaging industry will continue to face relentless pressure from manufacturers, retailers, supply chain companies. They all need packaging for their products to look good for the consumer to pick it up; prevent damage, reduce cost and energy use.
It is in this context the panellists discussed how packaging will be produced, look, be demanded and consumed.
Highlights of discussions
Ankit Tanna: The reason for Printmann Group being in different verticals of printing and packaging is to provide complete packaging solutions to our customers under one roof.
Amar Chhajed: The need for thin materials in packaging is driven by the customer requirement. Going thinner is a viable solution for sustainability as it uses lesser materials but without comprising on the properties of the substrate.
Ashwin Maheshwari: For retail branding, it's not only printing cost but there are different resources which contribute in the retail design. Overall cost depends on various factors – the print, use of props, fabrications. And to comply with the PVC ban we have started using fabrics as well as the other PVC-free substrates.
Marzban Thanevala: The world will move towards flexible packaging having monomer substrates, and lacquers will play a crucial role in deciding the properties of the flexible packaging.