Established in the year 1972 by its founder S M Shah, Manugraph India is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of single-circumference web offset presses. In recent years, Manugraph has forayed into the manufacturing of CI Flexo presses. As Shailesh Dharamadhikari said, “The global packaging machinery market is expected to grow at 4.5 to 5 % CAGR in the coming years. The market size of the Indian packaging machinery market in 2020 was USD 4162-mn and it is expected to grow to USD 5936-mn by 2027.”

Dharmadhikari shed light on the basic requirement; about understanding the uses of packaging. He said that a package’s function is to protect the product. “Packaging machinery can keep your product safe and also the packaging process, in multiple ways,” he said. 

He gave an example that a rinsing machine and bottle washer can clean the bottles before the filling process; ensuring no contamination during filling. He added, “The automatic filling of chips in the packets is safe because it avoids manual touch.”

The next point he touched on was: preserving the package. He said that a well-sealed and protected product is a preserved product. A secure seal will protect the product from atmospheric impact which could affect the product. “Nitrogen purge systems that can replace oxygen in a pouch during filling of the chips will extend the shelf life of the product. Also it will boost the taste and crispness of the chips,” Dharmadhikari said. 

The third point he made was about the appearance of the package and how the package should have proper labelling; a package to show off the product, use of logos, other information and coding. 

He said, “Rapid development in the end-user market is one of the reasons for the growth of the packaging machinery market in the country. Rising pharmaceutical sector and eCommerce segment are helping to grow the demand for the packaging machinery.”

He provided insights about the future of the packaging machinery. He said that globally, one of the largest markets for flexo printing is corrugating printing. “Pre-print on the top layer is the best option which the industry is focusing on, and that will add value / multi-colour designs on top,” added Dharmadhikari. 

He added that high-graphics corrugated packaging is one of the best options for seizing the opportunities that lie at the intersection of sustainability and branding. 

Later, he talked about the challenges in the packaging machinery. He pointed out that the machinery manufacturer has to protect the product plus maintain sustainability and product integrity. He said that recent trends point to shorter runs, repeat orders and flexibility which puts additional pressure on the converter.

He added, “Packaging production needs to produce advanced and thinner substrates that are in demand; with the same productivity and flexibility. For example, poly-laminates and BOPP laminates which are recyclable are the flavour of the month.”

Dharmadhikari pointed out how brand owners are seeking ways to make their product standout. He also mentioned why flexo is being preferred over gravure. He said, “CI flexo presses offer greater control of registration, enable the use of ECG and allow for lighter weight substrates with reduced solvents.