Navi Mumbai-based Centrum Print & Pack is sharpening its focus on high-value carton packaging with the installation of the Bobst Novafold 110 A2, as it looks to diversify beyond pharmaceuticals and tap into faster-growing segments such as cosmetics and food packaging.
Founder Mani Prabhakar, who brings more than three decades of industry experience, said the investment marks a strategic shift in both capability and positioning. Having transitioned fully into packaging around five years ago, the company has traditionally been heavily dependent on the pharmaceutical sector, which still contributes close to 70% of its business.
However, long payment cycles in pharma, which can often stretch to 90–120 days, have prompted a rethink. “Working capital gets locked for months, which puts pressure on operations,” Prabhakar indicated, explaining the need to rebalance the portfolio. The company is now targeting a more diversified mix, with increasing emphasis on cosmetics and FMCG, where payment cycles are shorter and demand is more dynamic.
The installation of the Bobst Novafold 110 A2 in October last year is central to this transition. The machine is designed to handle complex carton structures, including 4- and 6-corner boxes, which are widely used in food packaging applications such as sweet boxes, quick-service restaurant cartons, sleeves and speciality packaging formats. This capability allows Centrum to enter new segments where design complexity and finishing quality command higher margins.
Prabhakar highlighted that the Bobst platform brings a combination of precision, reliability and productivity that was not achievable with earlier equipment. Running at speeds of up to 96,000 cartons per hour depending on job size, the machine significantly enhances throughput while maintaining consistent quality. “Once the job is set, the machine delivers without interruptions, and maintenance requirements are minimal,” he noted, underlining the operational confidence it provides.
Another key advantage is the versatility of the Novafold platform. It enables quick changeovers and supports a wide range of carton sizes, from as small as 3.5 inches to larger formats, making it suitable for both standard and customised jobs. This flexibility is particularly valuable as Centrum expands into cosmetics and food packaging, where product sizes and designs can vary widely.
The investment has also improved capacity utilisation. With the high productivity of the Bobst machine, Centrum has been able to take on third-party conversion work, effectively positioning itself as a job-work partner for other printers and converters. This not only generates additional revenue but also ensures that the machine runs at optimal capacity.
Prior to this, the company operated older folder-gluer systems, which have now been phased out. Consolidating operations on the Bobst platform has reduced redundancy and improved efficiency, eliminating the need for multiple machines while delivering higher output from a single line.
Centrum’s current setup includes a Heidelberg press and a Maxima die-cutter, which together feed into the Novafold line. Prabhakar pointed out that the existing infrastructure is adequate for now, and the focus is on maximising productivity rather than adding duplicate capacity. However, future expansion is already on the horizon, with plans to invest in a new printing line, die-cutting and finishing equipment by FY28.
Space constraints are being addressed through plans to expand vertically, with an additional floor expected to house new machinery. This phased approach reflects a cautious but growth-oriented strategy, aligned with market demand and internal capacity.
Strong growth in India carton packaging segment
Beyond machinery, Prabhakar sees strong structural growth drivers for the packaging industry in India. The rise of new-age brands, particularly in cosmetics, is creating demand for high-quality, visually appealing cartons. At the same time, the food delivery and quick-service restaurant segments are driving demand for specialised packaging formats such as 4- and 6-corner boxes.
He also pointed to the growing role of digital printing in short-run and customised packaging, especially for events and niche applications. While Centrum remains focused on conventional carton production, the broader ecosystem is evolving rapidly, opening up new opportunities.
At the same time, rising raw material costs remain a concern. Prices of key inputs such as films and boards have increased sharply due to global supply disruptions, impacting margins. While availability is not currently an issue, Prabhakar expects cost pressures to persist in the near term.
Despite these challenges, he remains optimistic about the long-term outlook. “The Indian packaging market is among the strongest globally, with continuous demand growth,” he said, adding that success will depend on adapting to market changes and investing in the right technology.
