Apex International, a leading manufacturer of anilox sleeves and metering rollers, had a successful IndiaCorr Expo 2024 as the company met a lot of potential customers. In an interview with Packaging South Asia, Mangesh Bhise, director sales – Asia Pacific & Middle East at Apex International, shared insights into the company’s strategic focus on India’s corrugated market and its growth potential. Apex, known globally for its technological innovations, continues to strengthen its presence in the Asia Pacific region, with a particular emphasis on the Indian market.
Apex International’s manufacturing facility in Nashik, India, is a cornerstone of its operations. The plant can produce corrugated rollers up to four meters in size, though Bhise highlighted that their global facilities can produce rollers up to eight meters. He stated, “In India, we can do up to four meters, and globally, we have the capability to go even bigger. This flexibility allows us to meet both local and international demands.”
Corrugated industry evolution post-Covid
Bhise observed significant changes in India’s corrugated industry, particularly after the Covid-19 pandemic. He noted that the sector has matured, with an increasing number of high-quality machines entering the market. “The corrugated industry is becoming more sophisticated, especially with the rise of online shopping and eCommerce. The days of corrugated packaging being seen as a generic, mass-market product are changing,” Bhise said.
He also noted a shift in the market dynamics, with major global players showing interest in the Asian corrugated sector. This surge in investment signals the growing importance of the region.
A growing market in India
While Apex’s share in the Indian corrugated market remains relatively small, it is growing. Bhise highlighted that many of India’s top converters have started working with Apex, with the company’s expertise being increasingly recognized. “We have a limited share, but we are growing. Key OEMs and converters in India have begun collaborating with us, which is encouraging,” he said.
In India, Apex focuses on the converters’ side of the business, supplying tools like anilox rollers. The company’s primary markets in the region are labels and flexibles, with corrugated packaging gradually becoming a more significant part of the business.
Trends driving corrugated industry growth
When asked about the trends driving the growth of the corrugated industry, Bhise highlighted the growing demand for quality machines and technology. “We see that converters are investing in better machines, which is a sign of the industry maturing. Quality machines bring better products, service, and support. The entire ecosystem becomes more sustainable and profitable,” he said.
He added that e-commerce, electronics, and the beverage industry are the primary sectors driving this growth, with eCommerce being a major contributor due to the rise in online shopping. “Consumer-focused industries, particularly eCommerce, are driving the demand for better packaging solutions,” Bhise noted.
Looking ahead
Bhise concluded by discussing Apex International’s plans, mentioning that the company would continue to explore opportunities in the Asian corrugated market. With international players increasingly eyeing the region, Apex aims to provide innovative solutions to meet the growing demand for high-quality corrugated packaging.
