The tenth edition of the All India Federation of Master Printers flagship show, underway at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai, has the presence of top players across the offset and digital segments.

 

Thackeray who reminisced his connection with print as early as the 1960s, said, “For the past 55 years I have been associated with the printing industry. We print Saamna, the Marathi newspaper at Phulora Printers. My father, Late Balasaheb Thackeray had set up a press to print Marmik.”

 

He added, “Both as a politician and a photographer, I have utilised the services of the print industry.”

 

Thackeray also emphasised the importance of print in one’s day-to-day life. “We start with the toothpaste in the morning, read newspaper, see the hoardings, and the day ends on the printed bed sheet.”

 

Thackeray also recollected how printers, years ago, would travel to Drupa and return with stories of technological developments taking place. “After taking a round of the show, and seeing what’s on offer, I must say, that there’s enough of technology here that can make a difference to the print quality.”

 

Taking note of the fact that the print industry is still a neglected industry, both by the central and state governments, Thackeray offered to provide assistance and help solve issues faced by the printing industry.

 

Tushar Dhote, co-chairman of Pamex, shared his experience about the 16-odd road shows he conducted in different parts of Maharashtra to promote the show. He said, “Printers from smaller cities, and there are about 150-200 in each of these, were present for the road shows. That Pamex is about sharing knowledge about technology and how its use will benefit these small printers, is what we conveyed.”

 

Printers from across the country are expected to attend the show.