PrintPack 2025: Artience highlights innovation, sustainability, expansion

At the heart of the Artience Group’s presence at PrintPack is the introduction of products designed to meet the growing demands of the printing and packaging industry. “We have rebranded as Artience Toyo Inks, marking a new chapter for the company as we aim to create a legacy for the next 100 years,” said Aidhen. This rebranding reflects the company’s vision while acknowledging its history."

One innovation showcased was the MOF-free series of inks, a product compliant with French regulations. These inks are environmentally friendly and align with the latest global standards. The company also introduced press room chemicals, which optimise press operations, including maintenance solutions like GlazeEraze, designed to facilitate quick changeovers and improve machine efficiency. These products were well-received during live demonstrations.

Sustainability was another focal point, with Artience unveiling PVC-free inks and water-based gravure inks, developed for eco-conscious customers. These inks cater to the demand for sustainable packaging solutions and reinforce the company’s commitment to green practices in the print and packaging sector.

Expansion plans

Artience has been expanding its footprint since 2022. Aidhen said, “We’re expanding into rotogravure, especially liquid inks, as our current capacity is fully utilised. We’ve already received approval from Japan for further expansion in liquid ink and PSA.” With strong demand for these products, the company is poised for significant growth in these verticals.

At its Dahej facility, the company is developing a second PSA plant. “The land area at Dahej is vast — 100,000-square metres — and we’re planning to increase capacity significantly,” Aidhen said. The company will continue to ramp up operations in UV flexo printing, intending to expand this segment in India. Given Japan’s expertise in UV printing, Artience aims to replicate that success in the Indian market.

2024 marked a successful year for the Artience Group with growth in key areas. The company reported a 22% increase in liquid ink sales and an 8% growth in UV offset products. Another achievement was the introduction of mineral oil-free inks, a first for the company in India. These inks are compliant with the French decree, now a requirement for several major corporations like Nestle and HUL. “We are the only ink company offering mineral oil-free ink in India, and the response from major brands has been overwhelmingly positive,” Aidhen said.

According to Aidhen, customers have praised Toyo’s inks for their fast-drying properties, consistent quality, and superior dot reproduction. “Despite being one of the youngest global ink companies in India, we have made a strong impression on key players such as Pragati Pack, Progressive Printer, and Vishwagula Printers,” he said.

Green is the new black

Sustainability remains a core focus for the Artience Group. The company has taken significant steps in reducing its environmental footprint, with a notable reduction in carbon emissions from 900-kgs per metric ton of production in 2015 to just 230-kgs today. “At our Dahej plant, 39% of our energy comes from solar and hybrid green sources, and we’ve also reduced water consumption per metric ton of ink by 16%,” Aidhen said.

The company’s de-inking solution has gained attention in Japan for its ability to remove inks during the recycling process, making metallised and film substrates reusable. This solution is expected to be introduced in India following successful trials.

Goals for 2025

Looking ahead to 2025, the Artience Group has set ambitious goals, particularly in nurturing talent within the organisation. “We want to empower our team members and create more leaders within the company to enhance technical applications and customer service,” Aidhen said. This was exemplified at the inauguration of the company’s stall at PrintPack, where new employees with just six months of experience led the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Another initiative for 2025 is the collaboration with the Indian Institute of Science on research-based projects. The company is also exploring the development of edible inks for the confectionery industry, which would allow printing directly onto products like biscuits and cakes.

Aidhen is optimistic about India’s future as a major market for print and packaging. “India has immense potential, especially with its young professionals in printing engineering and packaging,” he said.