During Pamex, we engaged in a conversation with Ramesh KS, VP, Digital Printing Group, Redington. Ramesh expressed optimism regarding the digital packaging market, saying, “Presently, the outlook seems quite favorable. Post-COVID, there has been a noticeable surge in activity among digital players. Even conventional offset printers are giving greater consideration to digital alternatives, primarily due to the rise in short-run jobs. Running an offset press has become increasingly challenging with the diminishing prevalence of long print runs. Consequently, there has been a surge in demand for short print runs, driven by corporates transitioning to shorter campaigns, especially with the rise of digital media and major social platforms.”
Ramesh highlighted a significant shift in the printing-packaging industry, moving beyond mere production to encompassing comprehensive solutions. He noted that many offset press owners are now offering customized solutions to startups looking to enter the market. “Printers are evolving into solution providers, actively collaborating with startups to fulfill their unique packaging and marketing needs. This collaboration between startups and printers is becoming increasingly common and beneficial for both parties involved,” he said.
Ramesh also emphasized the noticeable rise in demand for short runs in contemporary times, driven by a desire for personalized and unique experiences. Digital package printing emerges as a key player in this trend, enabling the production of single package to cater to individual preferences efficiently. The general commercial printing segment is progressively transitioning towards providing value-added products, moving beyond the mere sale of prints.
Ramesh added, “At the Pamex exhibitions, one can observe a plethora of finishing equipment available. After the printing process, there is a growing interest in embellishing the prints to add further value. This transition from treating print as a commodity to providing value-added services is evident in the industry’s evolving landscape.”
Ramesh is optimistic about the future ahead. He notes a trend where many are diversifying into light packaging, recognizing that traditional offset printing may not sustain long-term. While offset printing will continue to have its place, it’s clear that unique requirements and a booming packaging industry are driving the need for diversification. Consequently, commercial printers are upgrading to include light packaging services, thus expanding their market reach and catering to evolving consumer demands.
Speaking about challenges, Ramesh pointed out several key issues. Firstly, there’s a difficulty in finding skilled labor and manpower to operate printing machines effectively. He stressed the importance of skill development, especially as advanced printing technologies emerge, ensuring that the industry has the right expertise to manage post-processing tasks. Secondly, the rising costs of media, papers, and equipment pose significant challenges to the industry. These increasing expenses can strain budgets and affect profitability.
Thirdly, Ramesh highlighted the growing emphasis on sustainability, particularly in India, where companies and corporates are starting to prioritize environmental concerns. This shift towards sustainability could impact offset printers who have traditionally not focused on these issues. As sustainability becomes an increasingly important concern for businesses and consumers alike, embracing eco-friendly practices will be essential for the long-term viability of the industry. Ramesh believes that changing mindsets towards sustainability is crucial for the industry’s future success.
He also noted a positive trend of younger generations entering the packaging business. Many of these individuals are likely to prioritize sustainability, which could drive positive changes in the industry. Overall, while there are challenges ahead, Ramesh sees good prospects for the printing industry, especially with a focus on sustainability and the involvement of younger generations.
