Rukson Packaging, a carton specialist based in Navi Mumbai, has established itself as a prominent player in the industry over its 25-year journey. The company began its operations from a modest 700-square-foot unit in the Mumbai suburb of Mulund.
Through years of dedication and growth, Rukson Packaging has expanded exponentially, now operating from a spacious 35,000-square-foot plant in Navi Mumbai. Founder Kishin Panjabi, an 80-year-old industry veteran, continues to manage the business, with the assistance of his son, Gobind Panjabi.
In December last year, Rukson Packaging achieved another milestone by commissioning a new Bobst Expertfold 80 A2 folder gluer. The machine was chosen for its advanced capabilities and versatility. Equipped with features such as the Accubraile GT for in line Braille embossing, four- and six-corner box attachments, and a corrugation kit, the folder gluer can process various types of speciality and complex cartons, including straight line and crash lock bottom cartons.
“The decision to invest in such a comprehensive machine reflects Rukson Packaging’s commitment to being fully prepared for diverse job requirements. The company anticipates an increasing demand for braille in pharma cartons and specialty boxes, making the folder gluer a valuable asset,” says Gobind Panjabi.
Rukson Packaging specializes in various types of cartons, with a particular focus on met pet (metalized polyester laminated to board) cartons. Its customer base consists of industries such as pharmaceuticals, FMCG, and cosmetics. In addition to cartons, the company prints inserts for pharmaceutical applications and Eflute cartons for the FMCG segment.
Over its 25-year journey, Rukson Packaging has equipped its facilities with a range of printing and converting equipment. In the pressroom, the company has primarily relied on technology from Heidelberg and Komori. Five sheetfed offset presses, including the Speedmaster CS 92 5+L, Komori LS-632 6-color plus coater UV press, Komori 2-color press, Heidelberg SORMZ, and Heidelberg SORM, are in operation. It also has Esko pre-press software and a Kongsberg sample maker.
In the converting section, Rukson Packaging operates a range of advanced equipment, including Bobst Novacut 106 and 102 SE die cutters, Bobst Ambition and two Expertfold folder gluers, three hand-punching machines, two stripping machines, two Polar cutting machines, a Heiber and Schroder window patching and liner machine, and a Zhongke lamination machine.
“Rukson Packaging places great importance on the quality and reliability of its equipment, opting for industry-leading brands such as Bobst, Heidelberg, and Komori. We highly value the excellent after-sales service provided by these companies, which is crucial in ensuring smooth operations and customer satisfaction,” Panjabi says.
Rukson is open to mergers, joint ventures
Looking ahead, Panjabi believes that the carton packaging industry is ripe for consolidation, driven by the expansion of global players in the rapidly growing Indian market. He highlights the recent deals in the Indian carton packaging industry, with larger players acquiring well-run smaller companies and private equity firms investing in Indian companies.
“As the carton packaging industry undergoes a phase of consolidation, Rukson Packaging remains open to exploring joint ventures or mergers. In line with these trends, Rukson Packaging is open to partnerships. Such collaborations will unlock significant growth opportunities for the company. Merging with another company would allow Rukson Packaging to leverage shared resources, expertise, and market presence, ultimately contributing to its expansion plans,” he adds.
Rukson Packaging’s journey from a small unit in Mulund to its current position as a leading carton specialist in Navi Mumbai is a testament to its commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. The company’s recent investment in the Bobst Expertfold 80 A2 folder gluer demonstrates its forward-thinking approach and readiness to meet emerging market demands.
