Short runs reshape India’s digital label market

In 2023, an Indian company ordered 20 customised water bottles, a small job that highlights the potential of digital printing for tailored solutions. This order, as Ankit Madan recalls, leads the Konica Minolta customer to supply over 60 million personalised bottles, demonstrating the scalability of their technology.

From this initial project, the company built a reputation for enabling businesses to produce custom labels efficiently.

Operating in India for 15 years, Konica Minolta develops solutions that address the needs of startups and established brands. Madan’s focus on digital innovation positions Konica Minolta as a key player in the label printing sector.

Digital printing for label flexibility
Konica Minolta’s AccurioLabel 230 and AccurioLabel 400 presses cater to different segments of the label market, with the AL 230 designed for entry-level users and the AL 400 for higher-volume production. These presses eliminate the need for pre-printed or specialised media, simplifying the printing process. Operators can switch between jobs without extensive setup, reducing downtime. “No pre-coating is required, streamlining the workflow,” says Madan.

The presses support variable data printing, enabling the creation of labels with unique QR codes or personalised designs. This feature suits applications in sectors like cosmetics or beverages, where differentiation is key. Colour consistency is maintained across runs, ensuring brand alignment. The systems require minimal training, as their interfaces mirror those of standard copiers. Printers can adapt quickly to varying job requirements, enhancing productivity.

Market data projects a compound annual growth rate of 6.4% for entry-level digital presses and 11.2% for high-end models from 2025 to 2030. These figures reflect demand for solutions that balance volume and customisation. AccurioLabel 400, with its CMYK plus white configuration, supports printing on clear and textured substrates. Its media versatility accommodates a range of applications, from labels to packaging.

Software integration enhances the printing process by automating pre-flight checks for fonts and variable data. This ensures error-free output, particularly for complex jobs like security labels. The ability to gang multiple jobs, combining, for example, 20-metre and 60-metre runs, optimises machine use. Printers can manage short runs without the constraints of traditional setups.

Globally, the company has installed over 1,700 digital presses, with more than 35 units in India serving industries like liquor and pharmaceuticals. “India meets the needs of brands worldwide,” says Madan.

Supporting startups with short-run capabilities
India’s startup ecosystem, particularly in tier-three and tier-four cities, drives demand for flexible label printing. In 2021, 50% of Indian startups originate in these regions, requiring solutions for small-batch production. Konica Minolta’s digital presses enable runs as small as one label or as large as 1,00,000. “You can produce 5,000 or 10,000 labels in a day, meeting startup needs,” says Madan. This capability supports businesses with limited resources.

Traditional flexo presses require extensive set-up for short runs, increasing costs and time. Digital presses, by contrast, use the same resources for a 100-metre job as for a 5,00,000-metre run. This efficiency benefits startups operating on tight budgets. The click-based pricing model aligns costs with output, whether at 5% or 100% capacity. Printers can scale production without financial strain.

The presses’ design allows operators to switch designs with a single click, streamlining job changes. This copier-printer-like interface reduces the need for specialised skills. Startups can produce labels for events like weddings or anniversaries, creating new revenue streams. The systems’ compact footprint fits small-scale operations in space-constrained settings.

Variable data printing, such as QR codes, enhances marketing for startups. Personalised labels create consumer engagement, amplifying brand visibility and association. The presses’ efficiency supports rapid turnaround for time-sensitive orders. By addressing the needs of small businesses, Konica Minolta fosters innovation in India’s label market.

The company’s approach aligns with India’s economic growth, where startups play a significant role. Digital presses reduce barriers to entry for new printers. Their ability to handle diverse substrates supports creative label designs. “We are a partner for India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem,” says Madan.

Hybrid printing for diverse applications
Konica Minolta’s hybrid presses combine digital and flexo technologies, offering a solution for printers balancing volume and customisation. These systems integrate with existing workflows, allowing seamless transitions between printing methods. The AccurioLabel series supports CMYK plus white configurations, enabling printing on varied substrates. “The white opacity meets industry needs,” says Madan. This feature supports applications requiring high visual clarity, such as premium packaging.

Hybrid presses allow printers to produce high-volume base layers via flexo, with digital elements for personalisation. This approach suits brands requiring both scale and unique designs, like customised water bottles or cosmetic and pharma labels. The presses support sandwich printing for multi-layered labels, critical for security applications. Operators can manage complex jobs without extensive retooling.

Workflow software optimises job ganging, combining multiple orders into a single run to reduce waste. Colour consistency is maintained across hybrid processes, ensuring brand accuracy. “The presses’ intuitive controls simplify operation, requiring minimal training. This efficiency allows printers to handle varied jobs, from short to large orders,” explains Madan.

Compliance with industry standards ensures the presses meet regulatory requirements for sectors like pharmaceuticals. The ability to switch between flexo and digital modes enhances operational flexibility. Printers can adapt to changing client needs without additional equipment. The systems’ media compatibility supports applications from clear films to textured papers. This adaptability makes hybrid presses a practical choice for modern printers.

Service network for operational reliability
Konica Minolta maintains a service network spread across 15 Indian locations, ensuring consistent press performance. This infrastructure supports printers operating under tight schedules. “More than 50% of our workforce focuses on service,” says Madan. Rapid response time minimises downtime and ensures higher uptime, which is critical for high-volume production.

Media certification allows printers to test materials for compatibility, reducing errors in production. Clients can submit substrates for evaluation, with Konica Minolta providing detailed guidance. This process supports applications like cosmetics labels, where material choice is key. Media guides offer recommendations for optimal performance.

Training programmes enable operators to master press interfaces quickly, reducing onboarding time. The click-based pricing model aligns costs with usage, simplifying budget management. This transparency benefits printers with variable workloads. Service teams provide ongoing maintenance, ensuring long-term reliability.

With operations in over 150 countries, Konica Minolta applies global expertise to its Indian service model. Compliance with standards like FDF ensures presses meet regulatory needs. The company’s 15-year presence in India has built a robust support framework. This infrastructure supports the adoption of digital printing across industries.

The company plans to expand its service network to meet growing demand. New training facilities will streamline operator onboarding. Media certification will continue to support emerging substrates. This focus on reliability ensures printers can meet client expectations.

Customer-driven technology development
Konica Minolta designs its presses based on client feedback, ensuring alignment with practical needs.

The AccurioLabel 400’s white opacity, noted by a client, supports printing on challenging substrates. A customer states, “The white opacity meets our needs for premium labels.” This feature enhances applications in sectors like liquor and cosmetics. The company’s Delhi demo centre allows clients to test samples, ensuring performance before purchase.

Variable data printing enables brands to create labels with QR codes or customised designs. This capability supports marketing for events like corporate promotions or personal celebrations. The presses’ flexibility allows printers to produce small batches for niche markets. This opens revenue opportunities for clients, particularly startups.

Workflow software simplifies tasks like font management and job ganging. Pre-flight checks ensure error-free production, critical for applications like security labels. The ability to combine multiple orders into a single run reduces costs. This efficiency supports printers handling diverse job types.

Media certification ensures compatibility with specialised substrates, from clear films to textured papers. Clients can test materials at demo centres, reducing production risks. The company’s collaborative approach fosters confidence in new applications. This process supports printers exploring innovative label designs. Konica Minolta’s client-centric development enhances market relevance.

With more than 35 Indian clients, the company serves a range of industries, from pharmaceuticals to beverages. The presses’ versatility supports applications like clear and textured labels. Continuous feedback drives improvements in press functionality. This iterative approach ensures alignment with client needs. “Our strategy is to be a partner for printers,” says Madan.

The company’s technology supports both small and large-scale operations. The presses’ reliability ensures consistent output under demanding conditions. Software enhancements improve performance over time, maintaining quality. By addressing client-specific challenges, Konica Minolta builds long-term partnerships.

Shaping India’s label printing landscape
Konica Minolta’s entry into India’s label market aligns with rising demand for digital solutions. The country’s startup growth, particularly in smaller cities, creates a need for flexible printing. The company’s presses, with minimal setup requirements, suit this market. “India meets the needs of brands globally,” says Madan. This perspective drives Konica Minolta’s strategy in the region.

Digital presses enable startups to produce small batches, reducing barriers to entry for new printers. The technology’s compact design suits operations in space-constrained settings. The presses’ versatility supports creative designs, from personalised labels to security applications. This flexibility fosters innovation in India’s label sector. Konica Minolta’s solutions empower new businesses to compete.

Hybrid presses offer a balance of traditional and digital methods, supporting diverse applications. The ability to produce complex labels, like those with sandwich printing, meets industry needs. 

With a global presence in 150 countries and 40,000 employees, Konica Minolta brings expertise to India. The company’s 15-year operation has established a strong foundation. “Konica Minolta’s service network supports rapid adoption of digital presses. This infrastructure addresses the needs of India’s growing label industry. Konica Minolta is well-positioned for further expansion,” concludes Madan.