Meerut-based Aggarwal Pack Products has opted for a brand new Bobst Novacut 106 E 3.0 automatic flatbed die-cutting machine. Established in 1995, Aggarwal Pack Products is a first-generation packaging and printing company and serves clients from multiple sectors – food, sports, electronics, garments and others. Initially, the company had only lamination and cutting machines, the rest were outsourced. Gradually, equipment for different processes was added, and presently, the entire production is under one roof.

Vinay Aggarwal, founder, Aggarwal Pack Products, said, “We initially purchased a pre-owned Bobst die-cutting machine back in 2016 and gained hands-on experience of working with the machine. As demand increased, we were planning to purchase another machine to expand. Initially, we were hesitant to invest in a new machine because of its cost. Then we did some calculations and looked into the turnaround time from printing to die-cutting. We understood the additional advantages generated by the machine, such as faster change-over-time for both cutting and stripping jobs, and eventually decided to go for it.”

Previously, the company had 22 manual hand platen die-punching machines, which required colossal labour and space. It decided to automate the process for greater efficiency, simplicity and speed. “After the installation of the first pre-owned Bobst, we removed more than eight hand platen die-punching machines, and since the installation of the Bobst Novacut in March 2021, we removed the remaining manual punching machines. Now, we have only three hand platen die-punching machines for different applications. Thus, we were able to save on labour and space, although we didn’t remove any labour and instead are utilising their services in other parts of the business,” Aggarwal said.

He said that with the new machine, conversion of sheets has become fast and flexible. The company has punched around 65,000 sheets on its new Bobst Novacut in a 12-hour shift. “In the festive season, we can easily increase the production,” he added. The company’s work depends on seasons, especially festivals, during which it runs the facility round the clock.

Aggarwal added that the company punches duplex boards (around 400-gsm), corrugated (E and micro) sheets and other rigid packaging materials on the machine. “Now we don’t have to think about the quality and quantity of the job because we know that the machine will deliver for us,” he said.

He added, “While the Bobst machine is expensive compared to other available options when you look at the performance and after-sales service support in a city like Meerut, it is worth the investment. Bobst’s hand-holding, training and guidance is reliable and trustworthy. We know, when we are partnered with Bobst, we are assured of lifetime support, which is not the case with other options in the market.”

Divyanshu Aggarwal, the second generation of the business, said, “We will be adding a printing press and will be diversifying into corrugate in the coming years.”