Pamex 2024: Konica Minolta’s Katsuhisa Asari is upbeat about digital print growth

According to Katsuhisa Asari, managing director of Konica Minolta Business Solutions India, when you look at the growth of any industry, it is important to look at the macroeconomic condition because printing can be impacted, depending on India’s economic situation. 

“If the recession hits, a lot of business can go down, but if the economy grows, a lot of investment is going to happen,  and that will boost the print industry. So, from that angle, I will see that this digital printing industry will continue to grow,” he said.

In light of India’s projected growth, Konica Minolta, the Japanese manufacturer providing industrial, production, and digital print solutions, is showcasing a range of its equipment – for digital print and embellishment. This includes AccurioPress C12000 and AccurioLabel 400, AccurioShine 3600 with iFoil, among others.

At the show, Pune’s digital print specialist signed a deal for the AccurioShine 3600.

Asari shared some digital printing press numbers. The estimate is that the Indian printing industry may have seen about 2,300 press installations in 2023. “We have been growing at about 25% with a 60% share of the digital print market,” said Asari.

For Konica Minolta, Asari sees the labels segment as the next area of opportunity. “We have had a successful run with the AccurioLabel 230, and are showcasing the AccurioLabel 400.” He said, the 400 broadens application possibilities using the white toner, and additional cost savings through increased durability of components, coupled with various media acceptability and printing of 3,000 linear metres in a single job.”

Konica Minolta is hoping to install the first AccurioLabel 400 soon after Pamex.