Zhongke India, a supplier of automated packaging solutions such as automatic rigid box making machines, die-cutters, high-speed dry-lamination machines, and equipments is focusing on embracing new technologies to align with market demands and stay ahead of the curve. Recently, the company introduced a new vertical dedicated to helping packaging manufacturers achieve Industry 4.0 compliance. This initiative aims to automate operations, reduce downtime through predictive maintenance, and enhance profitability.
Rohit Rajpal, director of Zhongke India, recently told Packaging South Asia that the company is providing equipment across the Indian subcontinent through a strategic joint venture with Zhongke China, a leading name in rigid box packaging machinery, and exclusive partnerships with top packaging machinery manufacturers. “Our primary mission is to secure unwavering customer loyalty by consistently delivering high-performance equipment that adds exceptional value to their businesses,” he said.
At drupa24, the company launched new equipment for fiber-molded products. This compact machine efficiently molds pulp into various shapes through innovative production. Its modular design, versatility, and high production quality demonstrated live at the show garnered significant attention. This new equipment represents a step toward replacing plastic-molded products with eco-friendly paper and pulp-based alternatives.
The company highlighted its rigid box-making machine, Zhongke’s latest double-head machine, capable of producing top and bottom-style boxes in the same cycle. The company says that this machine boasts a compact, harmonious design and intelligent functions achieving a production speed of 25 sets (50 boxes per minute), making it one of the fastest machines for high-quality rigid box production to date. The fully servo-driven automatic machine handles the production of top and bottom boxes, for quick turnaround time with minimum space and manpower requirements.
Established in 2014, Zhongke India has built a reputation in supplying high-quality, high-precision equipment, with a strong after-sales service, Rajpal says. “Our dedicated team of qualified engineers and technicians emphasizes our focus on personalized service and steadfast support. We ensure our customers’ operations achieve the best efficiency and the fastest possible ROI. We upgrade our machinery and adopt the latest trends to meet evolving global requirements. Our machines are designed to achieve sustainable production standards by reducing power consumption, minimizing waste through advanced features, and enhancing production speed.”
Rajpal believes that by integrating smart machinery for automation, data analytics, and real-time monitoring, packaging manufacturers can optimize operations and predict maintenance needs. Utilizing automated systems enhances productivity and accuracy while reducing manual intervention. He says the market for these technologies is growing rapidly, driven by the increasing demand for high-quality, eco-friendly packaging solutions.
“We believe that growth is best achieved through comprehensive projects,” Rajpal said. “By utilizing our extensive portfolio, we can collaborate with clients from the initial strategy-building phase through to selecting the right equipment, optimizing floor planning for space efficiency, ensuring sustainable production, automating processes, and implementing predictive maintenance for trouble-free operations. This holistic approach allows us to deliver integrated, efficient, and sustainable solutions that drive significant growth for our clients and our company.”
Rajpal talked about India’s vast and diverse market. With varying preferences and needs across regions, customized packaging solutions and flexible approaches can be a game changer, he says. “The diversity can drive innovation but demands flexibility from packaging companies. For instance, while small shampoo sachets are popular in rural areas, urban areas are more inclined towards smart packaging. The integration of advanced technologies such as smart packaging, eco-friendly materials, and automation act as growth strategies. Companies need to proactively adapt to these changes.”
The industry is subject to various regulations on quality standards, environmental sustainability, and safety. Compliance with these regulations can be complex and costly but is essential for market credibility, especially for exports. Efficient management of the supply chain, right from sourcing raw materials to delivering finished products is crucial. The logistical challenges in a vast country like India with varied demography, can impact cost and efficiency, he says.
The growing emphasis on sustainability poses a significant challenge. There is increasing pressure to reduce plastic use and adopt biodegradable or recyclable materials, which may be more expensive or require changes in manufacturing processes. According to Rajpal, the Indian market is highly price-sensitive. “Balancing cost-effectiveness with the quality and innovation demanded by consumers can be very challenging for packaging companies. Inadequate infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, can hamper the supply chain and cost-effectiveness of packaging solutions,” he adds.
Zhongke India feels that with equipment getting more hi-tech, there is an even bigger need for skilled professionals in the packaging industry to handle advanced technologies and processes. The shortage of such talent can be a hindrance to growth and innovation. The industry is sensitive to economic changes as inflation, currency fluctuations and other economic or geopolitical factors can impact raw material costs, supply, and overall profitability.
