Koenig & Bauer highlights Indian growth and technological advancements

Dietmar Heyduck, senior vice president sales global at Koenig & Bauer Paper & Packaging Sheetfed Systems, emphasised the significant evolution of printing technology and the growth potential of the Indian packaging and commercial print market. Speaking at a Koenig & Bauer greet-and-meet organised by Indo Polygraph Machinery (IPM) in Mumbai, he spotlighted the transformation in the industry. Heyduck noted that presses have moved from limited, standard specifications to highly automated machines with advanced features, a development he attributed to the collaboration between Koenig & Bauer, its Indian customers, and partner IPM. He proudly stated, "Indian ambition has met German precision."

Looking ahead, Koenig & Bauer forecasts substantial growth in the Indian market. By 2034, consumer packaging is expected to reach USD 93-billion, with commercial print projected at USD 46-billion. Heyduck affirmed Koenig & Bauer's commitment to supporting its Indian partners in capitalizing on this growth, working closely with IPM, a partnership that spans 35 years and is now in its third generation of leadership. This long-standing relationship ensures a blend of local expertise and global standards, which has helped Koenig & Bauer achieve over 50% market share among German manufacturers in India.

The company, a pioneer in the printing industry, is heavily focused on digitalisation and AI. Heyduck highlighted Kyana, an independent business unit and myKyana, the Koenig & Bauer digital ecosystem, which leverages real production data and AI to enhance efficiency. Connected packaging, another Kyana innovation, transforms packaging into a direct communication channel between brands and consumers, with solutions like Auraveo creating personalised customer experiences.

On the sustainability front, Koenig & Bauer offers energy-saving technologies like VariDry Blue dryers, which can reduce energy consumption by approximately 30%. The German manufacturer also provides tools like VisuEnergy X, an energy management system designed for the printing and packaging industry to help customers reduce energy costs and carbon emissions. It works by automatically collecting and visualising energy consumption data from networked power meters, then using industry-specific software to provide insights and identify potential savings. These two offerings, as Dietmar Heyduck said, help minimise waste, reduce emissions, and collect energy data across the entire enterprise.

Automation is a critical solution to address labor challenges. Koenig & Bauer offers 100% automation of processes in various formats, with the ultimate goal of a fully autonomous factory - from plate to print. Their Rapida presses, for instance, offer complete automation, including non-stop feeding and delivery, simultaneous roller wash, and 100% quality control with in-line inspection.

These comprehensive solutions, encompassing automation, myKyana, and sustainability initiatives, are integrated across Koenig & Bauer's entire product range for paper and packaging, including Rapida offset machines, post-press solutions like flatbed and rotary die-cutters, folder gluers, and flexo corrugated machines. Heyduck also reassured commercial printers of Koenig & Bauer's continued support with their Rapida solutions.

Concluding his speech, Heyduck reiterated Koenig & Bauer's commitment to being a trusted advisor, helping customers optimise processes, increase productivity, and expand their businesses, even exploring innovative solutions like authenticating printed boxes. He expressed gratitude for the support and trust from India, reaffirming Koenig & Bauer's ongoing commitment, including participation in future Print Summit and Pamex show, both in Mumbai.