APL Machinery has strengthened its footprint in South India while accelerating its transition into digital and automated printing technologies, according to CP Paul, managing director of the company. Paul said Chennai continues to be a key market for APL, with more than 100 screen printing machines installed across the region.
“Chennai is a very good market for us. We have more than 100 screen printing machines installed here, and we also have strong LED UV installations with customers such as Sharan Printing Press, Venus Printing and Rahul Process,” he says. He added that the company has also secured installations in Coimbatore, Salem and Puducherry, indicating a wider southern presence.
At the show, APL is showcasing a range of screen-printing systems equipped with automation features, including auto take-off, UV curing and foil-based embellishment. “We are showcasing screen printing machines with auto take-off, UV drive and foiler systems, which can deliver raised foil effects,” Paul explained, highlighting the company’s focus on value-added print applications. The company has reported strong order traction during the event. “We booked five machines in the first two days, and we are expecting around 15 machines in total,” Paul said.
Reflecting on performance, Paul notes that APL has rebounded sharply following the pandemic. “After Covid, we came back very strongly. Every year, we are developing at least one new machine which is not available in the country,” he says. He adds that the company’s portfolio now spans screen printing, cold foil, hot foil and 3D effect applications, with lenticular printing emerging as a new area of interest. APL’s technology development has also extended beyond its core segment.
“Screen printing is our strength, but we are expanding into offset and gravure,” Paul explains. The company has recently developed a rotogravure machine integrated with a custom curing system, capable of operating at speeds of 150-metres per minute. “This is the first time such a machine has been developed in the country,” he said.
Automation is another area of focus. “We are now entering robotics for screen printing, offset and die-cutting machines. Very soon, you will see robotics being used in print operations,” Paul states. He adds that the company’s research and development activities are based in Faridabad, supported by a dedicated team. In terms of financials, APL closed the last financial year with a turnover of around INR 40-crore and is targeting INR 60-crore in the current year.
Paul notes that the company’s machine portfolio ranges widely in value, from entry-level systems priced at around INR five-lakh to high-end configurations costing up to INR two-crore. A significant shift is underway in APL’s business strategy, led by its digital printing initiatives. Paul says the company is developing machines for label printing, fabric printing and industrial applications such as printing on metal and aluminium components. “The digital project is moving very fast. In another year, you will see APL becoming more digital-focused,” he explained.
As part of this transition, APL has entered into a partnership with HP for the North Indian market, alongside Redington. The collaboration will focus on high-end digital presses, including the Indigo range, for both commercial printing and packaging applications. “APL will be responsible for sales, while installation and service will be handled by HP and Redington,” Paul said. He adds that the partnership aligns with APL’s long-term direction. “As we move towards digital, HP will help us strengthen our position, and our 35 years of industry experience will help drive their sales in the market,” he concluded.