Diversifying: key to growth

-says MN Pandey of Avantika Printers Pvt Ltd who have recently diversified into technical documentation services.

The economy is down and the printing industry seems to be sinking. Long runs have been replaced with shorter runs and of course cost-effective solutions are preferred everywhere. As technology is developing, customers are becoming more aware of the options available, told MN Pandey of Avantika Printers Pvt Ltd.

Further talking about the scenario of Indian printing industry, he added, “Take the example of wedding cards. Earlier, people used to order 500 cards printed irrespective of their precise need but now they prefer to print the exact number of copies required. The industry is seeing a lot of educated new generation people joining in. This has brought in a major change in the industry, which is now very competitive.”

Interestingly, Avantika Printers Pvt Ltd started their operation in 2005, when the economy was down. “We started printing brochures and seeing the need for variable data printing, we installed digital machines. In 2007, we invested in high-end digital machine. Since then, we have always believed in innovation. We try to give innovative solutions to our customers,” told Pandey proudly.

“But, since the industry is fast changing, new applications are coming up. Technical documentation is one such application, where we have diversified recently. Six months back, we installed the Oce TD S750 large format printer. It can print, copy, and store engineering drawings faster and easier, with higher quality than ever before,” he told.

This kind of job is typical and confidential. Avantika has joined hands with a Switzerland-based company for the Indian & sub-continent requirements. “The first lot of prints has been sent to them and we are proud to say that we have been able to meet the quality and timelines efficiently. Each book costs Rs 2,500-3,000, depending upon the number of pages,” he informed.

Pandey feels that though the printing industry seems to be stagnant now, it will change soon. “Customers are now looking for innovation and quality and are ready to bear the cost for quality production. This will give a turnaround to the industry,” he opined. “As a printer, it is important to control wastages and costs.

Multi-tasking is the key to efficiency and value-addition is required to stay head of the competition,” concluded Pandey.