It's an unorganized sector, but Ludhiana's printing and packaging industry despite has created a niche for itself in the Indian market. Leading the group from front is BBF Industries Ltd, a company with a combined turnover of over Rs 600 crore. The firm is among the top 10 printing and packaging companies of the country.

In a conversation with The Times of India, managing director of BBF Industries Praveen Aggarwal throws light on the up-and-coming printing and packaging industry of Ludhiana. Aggarwal is also the president of Offset Printers Association.

What is the current status of the printing and packaging industry?

With a growth rate of 20-22%, this is one of the fastest growing industries in the world, next only to hosiery and textile industries. Everything is packaged these days, to the level that even coffins are being packaged and made of paper. Earlier, printing and packaging was restricted to big products like fruit cartons, ghee and butter. But the concept of micro packaging has changed the face of this industry. Food joints that rely hugely on disposable material has also given a major boost.



How do you view the industry in Ludhiana particularly?

The city industry is unique in the since that in other parts of the country it runs separately. But in Ludhiana, 95% of the times, printing and packaging are done jointly. Though the quality of products is good, the industry is still unorganized. Many entrepreneurs who are working on small, micro and medium levels. The industry needs orientation and exposure for increasing productivity and better management. The positive aspect is that the traders are uniting and working together towards modernization.

What are the shortcomings and problems that city's printing and packaging industry faces?

Lack of skilled labour, improper exposure and distance from ports are the major problems. Despite high demand, the industry is unable to export due to the distance from port. Using railway freight corridor proves to be very costly, thus proving a major handicap. This industry is also a cost-intensive as there is a need for automated machinery for quality production.

What are the demands of the industry?

A training institute of packaging like Indian Institute of Packaging in Delhi and Mumbai in the city Central government should recognize this industry and a separate ministry or department should be made for taking care of its interests Freight on printing and packaging products to be exported should be reduced Financial assistance by government needs to be worked out

Uploaded By : Charu  |  Reference Site : http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ludhiana/Packed-with-potential/articleshow/9263526.cms