A decade ago, the label and flexo market predominantly revolved around presses spanning 280-330 mm in width. However, Vinsak’s introduction of Lombardi to the Indian market instigated a significant shift. Today, the standard width stands at 430 mm, with approximately 90% of inline flexo presses being sold at this width or wider. Additionally, widths of 530 mm, 620 mm, and 670 mm now command almost 20% of the market share. This evolution is accompanied by a broadening definition of labels, expanding beyond self-adhesive and wet glue to encompass shrink sleeves, IML labels, wrap-around labels, and heat transfer labels.
In 2024, the market is poised for advancement to the next level. Lombardi and Vinsak has unveiled the inaugural installation of the Invicta I2 press, boasting an impressive web width of 880 mm. This groundbreaking achievement finds its home at Prakash Printers and Coaters in Ahmedabad, India, a longstanding and dedicated partner in the Indian market.
“The installation of the first in-line press of this web width by any manufacturer in India marks a significant milestone. Additionally, it represents the debut of the Lombardi I2 press in Asia and the Middle East. We anticipate that this groundbreaking development will revolutionize the industry. With its remarkable features including the shortest changeover time, running speed of 300 meters per minute, and the capacity for value-added enhancements such as cold foiling and cast and cure, this press is poised to reshape the flexible packaging market in India in record time,” Mohan Pailwan, vice president of Vinsak India.
At its core, sustainability is paramount, with the press embodying the smallest footprint, minimal setup waste, low energy consumption, and complete elimination of solvents. This commitment to sustainability positions it as the foremost carbon-conscious converting system globally.
As a family-owned business with the third generation already immersed in its operations, Prakash Printers and Coaters maintains its position as a technology pioneer in the market. Its commitment to innovation remains unwavering, consistently delivering value-added solutions for a diverse range of brands spanning food, FMCG, cosmetics, and industrial labels. Remarkably, the company is doubling its capacity every year, a testament to its rapid growth trajectory.
The recent completion of a sprawling 100,000-square-foot factory underscores its expansion, yet demand continues to outpace even this substantial increase. Currently, plans are underway for the construction of an additional 50,000 square feet as the company charts its course toward continued success and market leadership.
“Vinsak has been and will remain our steadfast technology partner in our journey of progress, as we persistently push the boundaries of our business,” said Prakash Shivlani during a recent industry forum. This statement underscores the enduring collaboration between the two entities and emphasizes their shared commitment to innovation and advancement.
“Prakash Printers hold a very special place in our company’s heart. They continually challenge us with new converting solutions they require, propelling us to innovate faster and stay ahead of the curve. This drive to find cost-effective and sustainable solutions for them is what fuels our partnership, said Pailwan.
“India has always been a key market with a special focus, and Prakash Printers, our key customer, consistently drives us to innovate,” said Massimo Lombardi, general manager of Lombardi Converting Machinery in Italy. He emphasized their commitment to developing new technology in response to the evolving needs of customers like Prakash Printers. Furthermore, he affirmed their dedication to advancing in-line presses for packaging markets globally, reinforcing their position as industry leaders in innovation and customer-centric solutions.
