Saurin Patel, assistant manager, Sales, Re Equipments (India), highlighted recent trends in the corrugation sector. He said,  "People are more concentrated on acquiring automation equipment because it increases production while reducing wastage. Additionally, there's a stronger focus on quality control now compared to the past two to three years."

He noted that production capacity and market demand are the primary drivers of growth in the corrugation industry. "Post-Covid, the use of corrugated materials has expanded into new segments, such as corrugated beds and chairs. There have also been multiple innovations in board strength, driven by various sectors like e-commerce."

Through its partnership with the Italian company Gama, Re offers advanced equipment like viscosity control systems for the printing industry. "These systems help maintain ink viscosity, reducing shade variation and saving ink and solvent," Patel explained. He also shared that Re plans to introduce new automation equipment, including sensors, which will bring cost-effective solutions to the industry.

Discussing the adoption of automation in India’s corrugation industry, Patel said that people are more willing to invest in automation now, though it will take time to reach the level seen in other industries.

Looking ahead, Patel mentioned Re’s plans to localise manufacturing in India. "We are hoping to manufacture certain items here in India to help reduce costs while maintaining quality."