Om Mithila Industries, based in Noida, India, has installed a high-speed Robus Excellence Series 1100PC folder-gluer to produce high-end cartons for food packaging. The machine, capable of producing various types of cartons at speeds up to 450 meters per minute, was installed in January 2023. The company, founded in 2000 by Ram Jivan Singh, has expanded over the years and recently purchased land near Yamuna Expressway for further expansion. Robus India, led by R&D specialist Prem Viswakarma, manufactures the folder-gluers in Greater Noida, emphasizing their commitment to innovation and reasonable pricing.

At the IntraPac 2024 exhibition, Vinsak showcased its label printing and finishing technologies, including Lombardi flexo presses, Iwasaki machines, and the Vinsak USAR. The company also presented a tabletop rewinder that upgrades labels to smart labels for tracking. Ranesh Bajaj of Vinsak praised the exhibition's layout and expressed optimism about the market's condition and growth.

Investcorp led a Rs 340 crore investment in Canpac Trends to expand the company's production capabilities in India, fuel growth through acquisitions, and enhance R&D. SBI acquired a 6.35% stake, while JM Financial partially exited. Canpac, with a diverse clientele, will scale up manufacturing and sales, and has introduced Altpac and Sweetdisp for e-commerce and QSR sectors. The Indian paper packaging market is expected to grow significantly, with Invest India projecting a CAGR of 26.7% from 2020 to 2025.

The IFCA Star Awards 2023, organized by the Indian Flexible Packaging & Folding Cartons Manufacturer Association, took place on October 27 in Mumbai, celebrating innovation in the packaging industry. The event recognized 48 winners, with Uflex winning the most awards. The awards highlighted achievements in flexible and carton packaging, recycling, branding, and student contributions.

White Print O Pack, a packaging solution provider for the pharmaceutical industry in Baddi, Himachal Pradesh, has enhanced its printing capabilities with a new Heidelberg CX 104 6-color press with coater. The company, co-owned by the Dewan family and Amit Gera, has been operating since 2004 and achieved a turnover of over 36 crores last fiscal year. They aim for 70-75 crores in the next term. The company also has a facility in Siliguri and plans to establish a gravure unit in Baddi. They are exploring new markets such as eCommerce, food, and cosmetics from their Gurgaon office.

Vandana Tandan, head of markets for India and Bangladesh at SIG, discusses the company's sustainable packaging strategy, including the introduction of an aluminum-free aseptic carton and the world's first fully forest-based renewable aseptic pack. SIG's commitment to sustainability is integrated into its business strategy, offering versatile packaging solutions like cartons, pouches, and bag-in-box. The company has introduced connected packs with digital technologies for consumer engagement and is working towards a net-zero carbon footprint by 2050. Tandan emphasizes SIG's agility in adapting to consumer preferences while maintaining quality and reliability.

Vinsak has installed its Usar 430 machine at JK Fine Prints' Mumbai facility, enhancing their label printing capabilities. JK Fine Prints, led by Karan Kapur, Himanshu Kapur, and Rahul Kapur, boasts a rich heritage in printing and a high customer retention rate. The Usar 430 machine is a servo-driven label converting machine with a pneumatic unwind system, designed for precision full die-cutting tasks. Himanshu Kapur, director at JK Fine Prints, commends Vinsak for their reliable partnership and support.

Printmann Group, based in Navi Mumbai and specializing in labels and packaging production, has invested in the latest sheetfed offset technology from Koenig & Bauer. The company, which holds various certifications and has won numerous awards, installed its first Rapida 105 press in 2021 and added a second one this year. Both presses are equipped with advanced features for high-speed production and product refinement, supporting Printmann's reputation for quality and performance in the print and packaging industry.

Heinz is set to launch a fully recyclable cap for its Tomato Ketchup bottles, aiming to enhance recyclability and reduce plastic waste. The new cap, made from a single material, will replace the previous silicone valve design, making the entire bottle recyclable. This initiative aligns with The Kraft Heinz Company's goal to reduce virgin plastic use by 20% by 2030 and ensure all packaging is recyclable, reusable, or compostable by 2025. The move has received support from WRAP and is part of broader industry efforts to promote sustainability. The new caps will initially be available for Heinz's 400 ml and larger bottles, with plans to extend to other products in the UK and Europe.

A report by Zero Waste Europe critically examines the efficacy of pyrolysis technology for plastic waste management, highlighting its limitations such as low oil yield, high energy demands, and the release of toxic compounds. The report calls for adherence to EU regulations and questions the long-term viability of pyrolysis in achieving a circular economy. Key concerns include the technology's inability to handle various plastic types, the need for extensive purification, and the significant loss of plastic materials during the process.

Gallus Group, a subsidiary of Heidelberg, celebrates its 100th anniversary by opening the Gallus Experience Center in St. Gallen, Switzerland. The new facility aims to drive market transformation and innovation in the label printing industry. Gallus also announced the launch of three new products: the Heidelberg Customer Portal, Gallus One with Converting, and an upgrade to the Gallus ECS 340. The company emphasizes its commitment to digital transformation and sustainability, aiming to enhance production automation and efficiency. Key stakeholders, including Dr. Ludwin Monz and Dario Urbinati, highlighted the strategic importance of these developments for the future growth of both Gallus and Heidelberg.

Testronix Instruments, a key player in the quality control testing sector, offers a wide range of testing instruments for various industries and emphasizes precision and reliability through advanced technology. Vidur Malhotra, a technical product specialist at Testronix in India, discusses the growth and challenges of the Indian packaging testing equipment market, which is expanding with a CAGR of 8-10%. Testronix's growth strategy includes product innovation, regional presence, tailored solutions, and training. The company is adapting to regulatory complexities, competitive pressures, and infrastructure challenges in India. Technological advancements such as smart sensors, data analytics, automation, robotics, AI, and cloud-based solutions are transforming quality control, with Testronix embracing these innovations to maintain competitiveness and ensure high-quality products.

Apple is advancing its environmental initiatives by introducing eco-friendly packaging for its new Apple Watch line, aiming for plastic-free packaging by 2023. The company has achieved 96% recycled and responsibly sourced wood fiber in its product packaging and collaborates with The Conservation Fund and WWF to manage sustainable forests. Apple's new packaging materials improve recyclability and the company's first carbon-neutral products, the Apple Watch lineup, promise significant emission reductions. Apple's custom printer reduces plastic and carbon emissions, and the company is transitioning to ocean freight to cut transportation emissions. Apple's 2030 strategy includes becoming carbon neutral across all products, with corporate operations already carbon neutral since 2020. Major corporations like Walmart and Amazon are also adopting sustainable practices, indicating a trend towards environmental responsibility in the corporate sector.

Fujifilm launched LuXtreme, a new LED UV curing system, at Labelexpo Europe 2023, which allows flexographic presses to convert to LED UV curing, enhancing label production on narrow web presses. LuXtreme offers high speeds, better substrate stability, and 30-50% higher radiant intensity than competitors, with fewer LED lamps needed. It provides significant energy savings, reduced material usage, and waste, making it a sustainable mercury-free solution. The system also improves the working environment by reducing heat, noise, and odors. Manuel Schrutt, head of packaging at Fujifilm EMEA, highlighted the system's sustainability, efficiency, and productivity benefits.

Acme Rolltech showcased its new engraving technology, Advanced Channel Engravings, and specialized products ATAC-2.0 and AHDW at Labelexpo Europe 2023. The company, established in 2018, is India's leading producer of ceramic anilox rolls and sleeves. Director Sandeep Sharma highlighted the success of ATAC rolls in the market and the company's expansion into exporting to over 20 countries. Acme Rolltech's growth is supported by its advanced manufacturing plant near Ahmedabad, which has doubled its production capacity.

Nichrome India, under the leadership of CEO Mrunal Joshi, has been at the forefront of packaging technology since developing India's first indigenous milk packaging machine in 1977. The company has seen significant growth in the FMCG and packaging sectors, driven by changing consumer demands, government initiatives, and the rise of eCommerce. Nichrome offers a comprehensive range of packaging systems, including VFFS and HFFS machines, and emphasizes strong partnerships with vendors and customers. The company collaborates with Trio Motion Technology to enhance automation and software development, ensuring high performance and efficiency in their machines.

The 10th Speciality Films & Flexible Packaging Global Summit of 2023, held in Mumbai, was a major success, attracting over 1900 delegates from 725 organizations across 20 countries. Organized by ElitePlus++ Business Services, the event featured keynote speakers, panel discussions, and exhibitions focusing on growth opportunities, emerging technologies, and sustainability in the flexible packaging industry. The summit highlighted India's role in the industry, with discussions on environmental concerns, private equity, and mergers and acquisitions. Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, solidifying the summit's status as a premier event in the packaging industry.

Konica Minolta's PrintXpress campaign, celebrating 150 years of digital printing advancements, concluded successfully after a 5-month tour across 150+ cities in India. The campaign, which featured live demonstrations of digital presses and targeted Tier-2, 3, and 4 cities, engaged over 3,000 customers and covered 48,000+ kilometers. Key figures from Konica Minolta, including Katsuhisa Asari, Manish Gupta, Mohit Kaval, and Utpal Rana, highlighted the campaign's success in reaching new clients and promoting sustainable workflows in printing. The initiative underscored Konica Minolta's commitment to supporting small print businesses and catalyzing growth in the Indian market.

Monark Software, based in Delhi-NCR, has upgraded its production facility with the Mark Andy Evolution Series E3 label press, supplied by Flexo Image Graphics. The new 8-color press offers economic advantages, high performance, and versatility in label manufacturing. Monark Software, known for its premium holograms and labels, also provides software solutions for various industries. The company emphasizes quality and customer satisfaction, supported by a dedicated team and advanced technologies.

Amazon is advancing its sustainable packaging initiatives by focusing on recyclability, reducing plastic usage, and optimizing packaging through technology. The company aims to minimize waste and carbon emissions, with significant efforts like the Ship in Own Container program and the introduction of paper-padded mailers. Despite these efforts, Amazon faces criticism from environmental organizations and watchdogs for potentially overstating its sustainability achievements. Collaborations with various organizations aim to enhance recycling infrastructure and practices, while machine learning and other technologies are employed to optimize packaging efficiency.

Serac showcased its innovative Milky Monsters bottles at interpack 2023, offering a unique packaging solution for dairy brands. The company introduced Serac Packaging Services, providing comprehensive packaging creation services for food and non-food manufacturers. The service includes eco-friendly design, industrialization of PET and rPET bottles and cups, and associated caps and labels. Serac emphasizes sustainability and user experience in its packaging, catering to both local and global brands, and complements its Combox blow-fill-cap units.

Metpack reveals a positive outlook for the metal packaging industry, which is projected to grow from USD 108.8 billion in 2020 to USD 147.4 billion by 2030. Key factors driving this resurgence include rising consumer demand in both developed and emerging economies, technological advancements in metal packaging, and the sector's alignment with sustainability goals. Technological improvements have made metal packaging lighter, more efficient, and aesthetically appealing, while digital printing has enabled customization for smaller production runs. The industry's focus on recyclability and environmental considerations has further fueled its growth. Despite challenges, metal packaging is seen as a more favorable option for waste management and recycling, especially in developing economies.

The Indian monocarton packaging industry has seen significant growth, with profits doubling over a five-year period from FY 2017-18 to FY 2021-22. A financial analysis of seventeen top-tier companies revealed an increase in combined EBITDA and profitability, despite fluctuations in raw material costs and human resource expenses. The industry demonstrated resilience and adaptability, maintaining profitability even during the pandemic. However, it faces challenges in capacity expansion due to supply chain issues and delays in equipment delivery.

Comexi has inaugurated its Asia-Pacific hub in Bangkok, Thailand, coinciding with the Propak Asia event on 15 June. This move aligns with Comexi's strategic goals of enhancing customer service and tailoring its offerings to regional needs. The hub includes a spare parts warehouse, sales team, and technical services, aiming to improve responsiveness in Southeast Asia. Key company figures, including Pau Xifra and Alexander Astudillo, emphasize the hub's significance in Comexi's Vision 2030 and its potential to strengthen the company's presence in the Asia-Pacific region.

Constantia Flexibles, Premji Invest, and SB Packagings have launched a joint venture to create a leading sustainable packaging platform in India and South Asia, following regulatory approval. The venture, named SB-Constantia Flexibles, will focus on the food and hygiene markets, employing around 2,700 people across nine plants. Deepak Ganjoo has been appointed as CEO, with a management team dedicated to delivering innovative and sustainable solutions. The joint venture aims to drive growth in high-value market segments and develop the EcoLam product range, leveraging the strengths of both companies.

Fujifilm officially launched its Jet Press FP790 inkjet press at the interpack show in Dusseldorf, targeting the flexible packaging market. The press, which uses water-based inks and offers high color density and stability, is designed for seamless integration into existing production processes. It supports both PET and BOPP films and can achieve more than 90% of the Pantone color gamut. Fujifilm has formed strategic partnerships with Henkel, Nordmeccanica, and Hybrid software to ensure rigorous testing and smooth integration. Manuel Schrutt, head of Packaging for Fujifilm EMEA, emphasized the press's exceptional quality, productivity, and reliability.

Toppan Specialty Films, a leading supplier of specialty packaging, has invested in W&H's FILMEX II cast film line to enhance its production capabilities. The investment is part of Toppan's vision to become a globally preferred supplier of specialty polymer films. The FILMEX II machine offers advanced automation and efficiency, significantly improving Toppan's product development and market quality benchmarks. The collaboration is expected to have a substantial positive impact on Toppan's business, with plans to launch a new specialty CPP range at Interpack, Europe in May 2023.

SG Edge, a Noida-based company, has successfully installed various printing and forming machines across multiple Indian cities, including an 8-color flexo press at Kalna Plast in West Bengal and a 6-color tower flexo press at Skylark Label in Noida. The company also deals in refurbished machines and recently installed a 6-color label press in Haridwar. At the Pamex 2023 exhibition, SG Edge received a positive response, selling two machines on the first day.

Standard Printers Providers showcased their intermittent offset label press and shaftless UV flexo press at Pamex 2023 in Mumbai, focusing on the label and lamitube markets. Gaurav Sachdev discussed the growth of the lamitube market and the company's offerings in printing and packaging machines, including Taiyo's high-speed servo driven UV flexo press. Sachdev emphasized the importance of keeping up with market trends and future demands.

Robus India introduced a 5-year comprehensive warranty program for its die-cutters and folder-gluers at Pamex 2023, addressing customer feedback for longer warranty periods. Neel Mehta, AGM sales, highlighted the company's strong service team and the importance of service assurance, especially noted during the Covid period. Robus India recently opened a service center in Vapi, Gujarat, and plans to establish another in Bangalore within six months.

DGM showcased its SmartFold 1100 SL automatic folder-gluer at Pamex 2023, achieving sales of over 10 machines. Puneet Aggarwal, managing director for the India Subcontinent, confirmed deals with several companies, including Design O Xperts, Santoshi Enterprise, MJ Global, Miraj Multicolor, Raj Paktech, and Uday Multi Print. DGM plans to start an assembly center in India by July 2023. Aggarwal noted industry trends towards more variant packaging with shorter run lengths and highlighted the high cost of service and spares as a major concern.

Usha Prints, a Bengaluru-based print service provider, has invested in the city's first Konica Minolta AccurioLabel 230 digital label press to cater to the short-run digital labels market. The announcement was made at the Pamex 2023 exhibition in Mumbai. The company, which also invested in a high-end flexo label press, aims to expand its business to include both short- and long-run label printing capabilities. Usha Prints operates multiple outlets across Karnataka and offers a wide range of printing solutions. Konica Minolta expressed satisfaction with the installation, marking a significant milestone for both companies.

Vinsak showcased its label finishing machine, USAR, at Pamex 2023, featuring capabilities for connected packaging with visible and invisible QR codes. The machine included a flexo unit for varnish, a die-cutting unit, a camera inspection system, and slitting and rewinding functions. Ranesh Bajaj, managing director of Vinsak, emphasized the company's focus on short-run flexible packaging and connected packaging, highlighting their ability to produce small quantities efficiently and cost-effectively, competing with digital applications.

Parksons Packaging, backed by Warburg Pincus, announced the completion of its acquisition of MK Printpack on March 27, 2023. MK Printpack is a leading producer of folding cartons for various industries, with facilities in Gujarat, Daman, and Haridwar. The acquisition aims to strengthen Parksons' market position and expand its product portfolio and geographic reach. This follows Parksons' acquisition of Manohar Packaging in November 2021. The founders of MK Printpack, Anil Kumar and Sanjeev Kumar, will remain in their roles within the expanded organization. Siddharth Kejriwal, managing director of Parksons, expressed enthusiasm for the growth opportunities this acquisition presents.

Surya Global Flexifilms, a subsidiary of Surya Food & Agro in India, has invested in three Bobst Expert K5 2900 metallizers to produce metalized BOPP film, including AluBond coated film. The first metallizer is already operational, the second is scheduled for installation in Q2, and the third by the end of 2023. The technology enhances production speed, efficiency, and quality, with the second machine featuring the Bobst AluBond process and Hawkeye defect monitoring. Shekhar Agarwal, chairman of Surya Global Flexifilms, expressed trust in Bobst and satisfaction with the high-quality film produced.

Constantia Flexibles has entered into a joint venture with Premji Invest and SB Packagings for its Indian operations, aiming to expand and create value in the Indian market. The partnership will leverage SB Packagings' focus on sustainability and innovation, particularly in the hygiene segment, and will combine the mono-material capabilities of both companies to offer medium to high-barrier packaging solutions. The joint venture is expected to close by the end of March, subject to regulatory approvals, with KPMG India serving as the financial advisor for the transaction.

The packaging industry in India experienced significant growth in 2022, expanding at an annual rate of 25%. The sector saw increased demand and production, particularly for polymer-based packaging due to its lower weight and carbon footprint. Major trends include the rise of e-commerce and a shift towards sustainable packaging, driven by new government guidelines promoting a circular economy. Despite this growth, the industry faces challenges such as supply outpacing demand, negative publicity around polymers, and geopolitical tensions affecting supply chains. Looking ahead to 2023, the industry expects continued pressure on margins and emphasizes the need for innovation, particularly in recycling and sustainable materials.

Ranesh Bajaj, managing director of Vinsak, reflects on the packaging industry's performance in 2022, noting a recovery in demand and the benefits of operating in diverse global markets. He emphasizes the importance of integrating digital and physical solutions in packaging, coining the term 'Phygital.' Bajaj predicts the decline of commercial print and the exponential growth of labels and packaging, suggesting that businesses in the printing industry will need to adapt and retool to stay relevant.

Dinesh Mungi, a packaging expert and branch head at B&R Pune region, India, discusses the growth and challenges of the packaging industry in 2022, emphasizing the rise of sustainable packaging and adaptive manufacturing. He notes organic growth in FMCG and cosmetic packaging, with investments in innovative manufacturing practices. Mungi highlights the challenges of meeting consumer demands for personalized products and the environmental concerns of packaging waste. Looking ahead to 2023, the industry is expected to continue addressing these challenges and evolving.

Bostik, a global adhesive specialist, has launched two new products, Bostik Themogrip HM2060 and HM2070, targeting India's tape and label market. Ravi Kumar Menon, the national sales head, discussed the products' alignment with local manufacturing growth and sustainable packaging needs. The HM2060 adhesive improves productivity for FMCG, pharmaceutical, and logistics industries, while HM2070 addresses the ban on single-use plastics with a focus on kraft packaging. Bostik aims to enable sustainability in manufacturing, with a shift towards eco-friendly adhesives and a CAGR of 7% expected in India's adhesives market from 2021 to 2026. Strategic priorities include enhancing label converting speeds, developing specialty label solutions, and reducing carbon footprints with innovative technologies. Challenges include adhering to environmental regulations and the cost of sustainable materials, which Bostik plans to overcome through smart technologies and global R&D collaboration. The company envisions changing the industry by focusing on sustainability and leveraging its recent acquisition of Ashland's Performance Adhesives business.

Acme Rolltech introduced its Advanced Channel Engraving (ACE) technology at Labelexpo India 2022, featuring four new structures aimed at enhancing HD printing, ink efficiency, and lifespan. The company also promoted its high-density anilox rolls, including ATAC, AHDW, and AHDC, which have been well-received in the market. Additionally, Acme Rolltech highlighted its Refurbishment Programme, a sustainability initiative to refurbish old rolls, ensuring they are as efficient as new ones. The company continues to lead in ceramic anilox rolls and sleeves, catering to various printing and coating industries.

HP Indigo, in collaboration with Technova Imaging Solutions, showcased innovative printing solutions at Labelexpo India 2022, featuring live demonstrations of their label and packaging solutions portfolio. Highlights included the HP Indigo 6K digital press, known for its advanced color management and automation features. The event also featured live sessions by industry experts and showcased around 250 job samples produced by HP's customers in India.

Apex International showcased its range of anilox and Genetic Transfer Technology (GTT) products at Labelexpo India 2022, emphasizing their benefits for the label industry. The company also highlighted its FlexoKITE facility, which offers comprehensive training and support for the flexo industry in Asia, featuring the latest equipment from Apex, Bobst, DuPont, and Esko.

Daetwyler SwissTec has increased the production capacity of its Pune facility, adding machinery to produce standard doctor blades. The company, a leader in precision doctor blades with facilities in Switzerland, the USA, China, and India, is developing new products and plans to launch new doctor blades. Despite Covid challenges, the Indian market remains significant for Daetwyler SwissTec, with stable business in 2020 and growing demand for coated blades.

Kwality Offset Printers, based in Delhi, India, won the Flexo Tech Award in the 'Best Embellishment' category for their Kamet Whisky label, which features a multi-step printing process with foiling, embossing, and matte effects. The award ceremony took place in the UK on October 12, 2022. Krish Chatwal, director at Kwality Offset Printers, expressed gratitude for the recognition and partnership with Peak Spirits India. Established in 1972, Kwality Offset Printers has evolved from producing ice cream cartons to utilizing flexo and digital technologies for label printing.

Fineflexo has installed a new Gallus Labelmaster flexo press at its Baddi, Himachal Pradesh plant, aiming to enhance the standard of the self-adhesive market in India. The company, a joint venture between Medi Sales Group and Bhavani Group, is focused on premium quality, performance, and just-in-time deliveries. The Gallus Labelmaster 440 offers technical advantages such as handling diverse substrates, high production speed, and user-friendly operation. Fineflexo's core business includes manufacturing roll on pilfer proof caps, pet bottles, and metal printing. The new press will be used for printing labels for pharmaceutical bottles, tube laminates, and aluminum foils. Fineflexo is also starting a new division, Finepharmapack, to produce aluminum-based films and foils for pharmaceutical packaging. The company aims to be a one-stop solution for pharmaceutical packaging needs and is proud to be associated with Heidelberg India and Gallus.

Chetan Jain, executive director of Taurus Packaging, launched his second book, '5 Myths About Sustainable Shrink Sleeve,' at the Speciality Films & Flexible Packaging Global Summit in Mumbai. The book addresses misconceptions in the packaging industry regarding the sustainability of shrink sleeves and offers insights into recycling processes and global trends. It aims to guide packaging professionals in exploring sustainable packaging opportunities. The book is available for pre-order on Amazon and Flipkart.

The 9th edition of the Speciality Films & Flexible Packaging Global Summit 2022 will be held in Mumbai, India on 5-6 September 2022. The summit will feature participation from the entire value chain of the flexible packaging sector, including raw material producers, converters, machinery manufacturers, and brand owners. The event, organized by ElitePlus, is expected to attract over 1,400 delegates from across the globe, with 45+ presentations and 10 business sessions. The Packman will provide event coverage.

ShriMaa Group has installed its second Convertex CL 140 from W&H, continuing its expansion in manufacturing block bottom bags. Chairman Sajjan Bansal and Director Nitesh Sharma express satisfaction with the machine's performance and the supportive partnership with W&H, highlighting innovations like the Nanotex Cyclo Perforation. The company aims to stay ahead by anticipating market needs and diversifying its client base.

RK Printers has established a new plant in IMT Faridabad, emphasizing sustainability with a 30 KW solar power plant and a rainwater harvesting system. The company, founded by the Malik brothers, aims to increase production capacity and minimize environmental impact. The new facility features advanced machinery, including Heidelberg presses and Bobst die-cutters, and serves various sectors such as pharma, cosmetics, and food and beverages. Partners Vikrant, Akshay, and Sumit Malik highlight the company's focus on sustainable practices, export ambitions, and overcoming pandemic-related challenges.

Naph Graphics introduced a center surface type drum slitter rewinder and a stack type flexographic printing machine, Naphlexo804, at the 15th Printpack India exhibition. The Naphlexo804 is designed to handle a range of substrates and offers customization to meet customer needs. The company, which began in web offset press manufacturing in 1996 and entered the packaging and converting industry in 2016, also showcased its Slitline45 and Docline35 machines. Marketing Director Praveen Kumar highlighted the positive reception at the exhibition and the company's plans to improve the drum slitter's speed and capacity.

MJ Global has ordered the modular Kongsberg X22 at Printpack India 2022 to enhance its packaging solutions, improve efficiency, and diversify its portfolio. The Kongsberg X22 offers speed, power, and flexibility, and includes the Kongsberg PowerHead tool for heavy-duty materials. Additionally, Kongsberg PCS secured a deal with Pragati Offset for the Kongsberg X20, which will help improve productivity and customer satisfaction. These deals mark significant achievements for Kongsberg PCS at one of the first events attended in India since becoming a standalone business.

H.B. Fuller showcased several innovations at Printpack India 2022, focusing on sustainable consumer goods and eCommerce packaging. The highlight was the sustainable Sesame tear tapes made of 80% bio-based material, certified by PEFC, and awarded by FEFCO for sustainability. The company also introduced Swiftmelt pressure-sensitive adhesives for various eCommerce packaging applications, Swifttak food-safe adhesives for paper straws, and metallocene-based hot melt adhesives for bookbinding, emphasizing sustainability, durability, and recyclability.

The article focuses on the lives of Thato and Sipho, two brothers in Johannesburg, South Africa, who are part of the informal recycling workforce. They are trapped in a cycle of drug abuse, using 'bluetooth' to share drugged blood as a cheap high. Their work involves collecting recyclable materials for a meager daily wage, which is often spent on drugs like rock meth and nyaope. The article highlights the harsh realities of the recyclers' lives, including drug addiction, peer pressure, and exploitation by waste removal company owners. Despite the potential for a decent living through recycling, many workers are caught in a destructive loop of substance abuse and crime. The article also touches on the broader impact of the recycling industry on the city's economy and the lack of research on the extent of this phenomenon. Personal stories of the subjects reveal the lost dreams and the harsh reality of their lives controlled by addiction.