Innovation was a key focus during the PrintWeek Awards Jury Week. Whether it was experimenting with packaging design, inks, or die-cutting techniques, the industry has shown that there is little to no stagnation when it comes to creativity. Innovation means different things to different people—it could be about enhancing utility, improving the look and feel, selecting materials that are easier to recycle, or embracing both exuberant and minimalist designs.

In addition, the importance of packaging design was underscored. With brands emphasising sustainability, there has been a noticeable shift towards the reduction of excess packaging—one of the core principles of the three Rs of sustainability: Reduce. The jury was most impressed by the use of foiling for a range of colours, embossing, and spot UV coating that elevated the look and feel. The emphasis on post-press practices was commendable. There was a focus on minimalism, transparency, and the extensive use of post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials instead of virgin plastic.

Some standout examples included the monolayer packaging solutions. The Slide Real Strawberry dispenser carton, with its flawless folds and locks, and refillable sections, is a good example of how packaging can be both functional and sustainable. Similarly, the Oaken Glow bold and smoky liquor carton, with its natural burnt texture, see-through cutout, and gleaming copper foil, showcased how design and innovation can work hand in hand. A Mahatma Gandhi figure, crafted from corrugated ply with precise glueing and cutting, was a work of art. 

During the PrintWeek Awards Jury Week, the 22-member jury panel was treated to insights, conversations, and an array of print and packaging products that set new benchmarks. This year, the Awards received more than 261 entries in different categories and more than 850 individual samples for the Quality Awards, with a good number of first-time submissions vying for the Prism with industry veterans.

The Awards Night for the 14th edition will be hosted on 23 September (Monday) at The Westin Powai Lake, Mumbai. The official registration begins at 6:15 pm.

Table reservations are now open for the sit-down formal dinner event on 23 September. For more enquiries about the PrintWeek Awards Night, please contact Sudhanva Jategaonkar at sudhanva.jategaonkar@haymarketsac.com