At ProPak 2024 in Bengaluru, Ahmedabad-based flexible packaging company Packofy presented its latest advancements in non-woven packaging. Packofy, a first-generation company in the packaging industry, showcased a range of non-woven pouches, rolls, and bags, specifically positioned as alternatives to traditional paper bags. According to Himanshu Barevadia of Packofy, this shift not only aligns with eco-friendly trends but also targets businesses aiming to incorporate reusable and durable packaging into their branding efforts.
Packofy’s stand highlighted the applications of non-woven bags, emphasizing their recyclability, reusability and waterproof qualities. “Everything depends on what you’re making and how you’re packing it,” Barevadia said. He added these bags are targeted primarily at B2B clients, particularly those looking for innovative ways to promote their brands through customizable packaging options. The flexibility to print brand names on the bags allows companies to combine gifting and brand promotion, providing a unique marketing tool.
Packofy has invested in both gravure and flexo printing technologies, operating a gravure press from Kohli and a flexo press from Comexi. According to Barevadia, the choice between gravure and flexo printing depends heavily on the specific needs of clients.
Flexo printing, for instance, has gained popularity due to its ability to handle shorter runs and a broader range of SKUs. “Apart from multinational corporations, we are seeing more and more mid-level companies adopt flexo printing for new products that require smaller production runs. Established products may still utilize gravure printing, but for startups and newer brands, flexo is the choice,” he said.
The focus on flexo printing, particularly among small to mid-sized companies, aligns with the industry’s move toward flexibility and cost-effectiveness. According to Barevadia, the shift is largely due to the cost benefits flexo offers over gravure in shorter runs. For startups, which typically bring fresh products to the market and require smaller production runs, flexo printing has become the standard approach.
Packofy announced plans to install a new CI-flexo press from Comexi. The new press is specifically designed for ultra-short-run jobs, allowing Packofy to offer clients an economical alternative to digital printing. “While digital printing is often four times more expensive for short runs, we can provide similar quality and customization at just 10-20% above standard rates with our CI-flexo press,” Barevadia said.
