On 23 July 2021, the Governing Council members of India Printing Packaging and Allied Machinery Manufacturers (IPAMA) met in its 118th meeting to review the Survey Reports relating to the organization of 15th Printpack India, slated to be held from 20 – 24 December 2021. During the meeting, the Governing Council had considered various relevant factors, including the Survey Reports, Government guidelines and the health-related issues of exhibitors, business visitors, service providers etc. The House had also considered the impact of lockdowns on the industrial operations.  It had also considered the postponement of significant events like Delhi Auto Expo, India ITME etc., due to COVID-19.

Initially, Governing Council made efforts and to boon the industry to participate in the 15th Printpack India on the dates mentioned above. Exceptional discounts were offered after the first wave of Covid. Against the regular tariff i.e., Rs. 9000 per sq. meter for shell and Rs. 8000 for bare space, IPAMA extended up to Rs. 64% discount to regular members (more than 15 years). Unfortunately, the second wave paused the momentum, and the House decided to postpone the exhibition after considering all pros and cons. 

Due to spreading COVID-19 in the country, IPAMA had conducted a survey last year, seeking the views of the exhibitors relating to the organization of the 15th Printpack India Exhibition from February 01-06, 2021.  As per the Survey reports received from the Exhibitors, most of them had advised rescheduling of the dates as there had been an adverse impact on the industrial operations due to the promulgation of lockdowns by various State Governments for different periods. Accordingly, the Governing Council of IPAMA, after considering multiple factors, including the health-related issues of the Exhibitors and Business Visitors, had decided that the exhibition may be organized at India Expo Centre from December 20-24, 2021.

Keeping in view the second wave of COVID-19 in the country and promulgation of lockdowns by various State Governments and its impact on the industrial operations, IPAMA had again decided to conduct a fresh survey relating to the organization of the 15th Printpack India Exhibition on the rescheduled dates. 

Accordingly, questionnaires were sent to the Exhibitors and other related companies to be filled in by them, seeking their views relating to the organization of the Printpack India Exhibition. The officials of IPAMA had also personally contacted each Exhibitor for submission of the Survey Report. A comparative statement was prepared by IPAMA Secretariat, based on the information provided by the Exhibitors. Around 80% of the Exhibitors had recommended postponement of the exhibition, while 20% had stated that they are comfortable for participation in the exhibition under the prevailing conditions.

Regarding the new dates, the House had decided that these will be announced as and when the situation permits.