At Printpack India 2025, Nilpeter unveiled its latest innovation, the FB-17, designed to redefine capabilities in both label and flexible packaging printing. The new FB-Line press is available in 14- and 17-inch models. Speaking with Manish Kapoor, sales head, Nilpeter India, we delved into the innovation behind the FB-Line, its impact on the Indian market, and Nilpeter’s broader vision for the future of flexographic printing.
The new FB-17 was developed as a direct response to industry demand. “We have always believed in listening to our customers,” said Kapoor. “More and more label converters were looking for a press that could handle both labels and short-run flexible packaging jobs. However, printing on thinner films – as low as 12 or 15-micron BOPP – posed challenges that required a dual-servo system. That’s exactly what the FB-17 delivers.”
Bridging the gap between labels and flexible packaging
Nilpeter’s FA series is known for its high automation, featuring up to seven digital motors per print unit. While this level of technology offers exceptional precision and efficiency, Kapoor acknowledged that for many Indian converters, investing in an FA-series press solely to access short-run flexible packaging capabilities was not always justifiable.
“The FB-17 Dual Servo is the perfect middle ground,” he explained. “It provides an affordable yet advanced solution, offering more than just labels while remaining accessible to businesses that may not require the full extent of an FA-series investment.”
Advanced features and automation
Positioned between the single-servo FB press and the multi-servo FA series, the FB-17 integrates advanced automation features that enhance efficiency and precision. With job storage and recall, converters can reduce setup time and ensure consistency, while automatic plate pressure settings and repass streamline operations and minimize operator dependency. Additionally, the press’s ability to print on flexible films, labels, and light board cartons expands market opportunities, making it a versatile solution for evolving printing needs. “The automation in the FB-17 enhances both efficiency and precision. It enables converters to meet diverse customer demands without investing in a fully automated system,” Kapoor said.
The future of india’s printing industry
Kapoor firmly believes that India’s label industry must evolve. “For too long, Indian converters have focused only on labels. But short and medium-run flexible packaging is a massive, untapped opportunity,” he said. “Now is the time for label converters to expand their capabilities and claim their share of the flexible packaging market.”
He predicted that more converters would invest in hybrid presses capable of handling both labels and flexible packaging, ensuring business growth and profitability.
Sustainability & Nilpeter’s commitment to India
“Nilpeter has long been a pioneer in research and development, a commitment deeply embedded in its 110-year heritage as a family-owned company, now led by the third and fourth generations. This continuity has enabled the company to refine its short-, medium-, and long-term R&D objectives, ensuring that every innovation aligns with evolving market demands and technological advancements,” Kapoor said. “Our R&D strategy ensures that we stay ahead of global trends. Every product we develop is based on customer needs and technological advancements.”
Beyond technology, sustainability is a top priority for Nilpeter. “We have doubled the size of our Chennai factory, ensuring that we integrate eco-friendly initiatives such as solar power and sustainable production processes,” Kapoor shared.
A call to action for Indian label converters
Kapoor concluded the conversation with a strong message for the industry: “It’s time to step up and compete. The Indian market presents both opportunities and challenges. We can no longer afford inefficiencies and losses. It’s time for converters to think beyond labels, embrace flexible packaging, and automation, and build a sustainable, profitable business.”
