Printmark invests in Canon

The company’s average printing output ranges from 2,500 to 3,000 copies daily. 

Sanjay G Joshi, managing director, Printmark, said, “The beauty of the V1000 lies in its user-friendly single-phase design. Its exceptional toner deposition on substrates results in an extremely flat finish, ensuring precise colour matching to source files. This accuracy is particularly significant as we handle a variety of jobs, both offset and digital. Our experience with the Canon ImagePress V1000 has demonstrated its versatility, successfully printing on a range of media from 54- to 400-gsm ITC Cyber Excel, metallic sheets, metalised/metpet sheets, transparent PVC sheets, and more. The toner adhesion consistently meets our high standards, reflecting the press's robust performance across diverse materials.”

Joshi said the decision to invest in the Canon digital printing press was driven by the company’s preference for Canon products since 2010. “Over the years, we have installed numerous Canon machines, such as C9650, C6000, C8690, C700, C850, iR ADV 8786, and now the V1000, reflecting our commitment to the brand’s quality and performance,” he added.

Joshi said Canon India imparts training to the team immediately upon machine installation, covering a comprehensive curriculum that ensures that the staff is well-versed in the operational intricacies of the equipment. 

“With Canon, we have ably managed our production requirements, consistently delivering top-notch results having worked on the inherent limitations. For instance, we had a key client requiring colour ROHS and substrate specifications for their medical equipment manuals. While other printers were tested, only manuals printed on Canon garnered approval. This success has translated into a steadfast partnership, as we have exclusively supplied their approved manuals for the past five years, underscoring the superior quality and satisfaction that Canon’s technology brings to our clientele,” he said. 

Established in 2005, Printmark was founded by Sanjay G Joshi and Subhas G Joshi. The journey began on a modest scale with just five employees and three clients, focusing primarily on design studio services. In the same year, we acquired a refurbished Xerox machine, marking the first step in our technological advancement. 

In 2008, the company expanded by acquiring a Xante digital colour machine, which was complemented by the addition of a Techwin large-format machine. By 2010, Printmark had firmly established itself as a premier digital printing provider in Bengaluru, with a strong emphasis on print-on-demand services that catered significantly to the IT and engineering sectors. 

Presently, the company’s team comprises 17 professionals, operating three digital printing machines alongside cutting-edge finishing equipment. 

“This collective effort enables us to serve a diverse clientele of over 100 businesses across the nation, with an added reach extending to international clients. Our annual turnover of Rs 3.5-crore stands as a testament to our growth and success,” Joshi said. 

The company’s facilities encompass a 2,000-sqft office space equipped with a range of key equipment. These include a Canon ImagePress V1000, a Canon ImageRunner ADV 8786, an Epson L805, a cutting machine, an auto-dye cutting machine, two lamination machines, a staple pinning machine, a creasing and perforation machine, an ID card printing machine, and a couple of heat transfer machines.

At present, Printmark engages in a diverse range of business activities including creative designing, product development, sample creation, brand establishment and management, production of POS materials, marketing collaterals, digital printing, offset printing, large format printing, and packaging.

Joshi said the company has witnessed a noticeable surge in the demand for intricate digital print projects. For example, there’s an increasing demand for gift coupons that feature two distinct variable data elements, such as barcodes and numbering. Invitations with QR codes add an interactive dimension to invitations, enabling recipients to access additional information digitally. There is also a demand for customised invitation cards and certificates that align with the client’s event themes or branding.

“Through such projects, we showcase our capability to deliver sophisticated solutions that merge creativity with advanced technological features,” Joshi said. 

According to Joshi, in the contemporary printing landscape, a significant challenge that stands out is the scarcity of technically qualified personnel. The multifaceted nature of the printing industry demands expertise across various departments, and finding individuals with the necessary qualifications can be a hurdle. 

Another hurdle is the issue of extended credit terms. Despite the substantial reliance of FMCG industries on the printing sector, payment terms often stretch to 60 or even 120 days, which can strain cash flow and operational efficiency.

“To address these challenges, the printing industry can implement a comprehensive approach. This includes investing in training and skill development programmes to bridge the gap in qualified personnel, achieved through collaborations with educational institutions or in-house training,” he said.

Joshi said that with the new investment, he anticipates a substantial growth trajectory, increasing the company’s monthly output from 35,000 copies to 70,000 copies. “Our targeted growth is set even higher, aiming to surpass 100,000 copies per month. In terms of ROI, we expect to achieve a favourable ROI within a period of 24 to 30 months, underlining the strategic value and positive impact of this investment on our operations and business expansion.