Exclusive: Vinsak targets shorter runs and secure supply chains at Interpack

Originally launched in Barcelona, the Universal 850 is a modular platform capable of handling in-mould labelling (IML), shrink sleeves, and folding cartons.

Ranesh Bajaj, director, and Mohd Rizwan, business development at Vinsak Group, say that while digital often dominates the conversation around short-run packaging, the price-performance ratio of web offset technology offers a competitive and sustainable alternative for the FMCG and pharma segments.

“Digital is often perceived as the first preference for short-run jobs, but the running costs must be scrutinised,” says Ranesh Bajaj. “When you factor in post-press conversion—die-cutting, foiling, and sealing—offset becomes as efficient as digital for short to medium runs. We are not competing; these are complementary technologies, but for any kind of production beyond mere mock-ups, offset provides a superior price-performance ratio,” Bajaj adds.

The IML surge and the mono-material mandate

A significant portion of the enquiries at the Vinsak booth revolves around IML for injection-moulded containers. This shift is driven by the tightening global net-zero mandates, such as Europe’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).

“Most visitors are enquiring about IML because it facilitates a single-material recycling stream,” explains Mohd Rizwan. In standard packaging, the label and the container often have to be recycled separately. He says, with IML using BOPP, the entire product is made of the same material family, ensuring true circularity.

While mono-material structures are often criticised for having lower barrier properties compared to multi-layer plastics, Bajaj argues that the industry must balance material costs with recycling technology. He says, “We are pushing mono-material because it is easy to recycle, but we shouldn't write off multi-layer yet. Large groups are investing heavily in multi-layer recycling processes. The goal is the high-performance ratio whether you invest in an expensive mono-material or a robust recycling process.”

Securing the brand: Connected packaging

Beyond the substrate, Vinsak is addressing the counterfeiting challenges through its Label Decor embellishment machine and dedicated track-and-trace software. The company’s brand protection strategy is a multi-layered approach: Starting with features in the substrate (paper or film), moving to security design in the print, and finally, digital QR codes for real-time supply chain decisions.

“A brand owner will spend INR 10 on tactile finishes but cannot hesitate to spend one rupee on anti-counterfeiting,” Bajaj observes. “It is a consultative approach. We look at the threat perception, whether they need tamper evidence or if the brand value is being eroded,” he explains.

The company’s track-and-trace solutions enable brands to monitor product movement in real-time, helping to prevent counterfeits and safeguard consumer safety. Rizwan notes that the perception of brand integrity is now a primary driver for the pharmaceutical and FMCG industries.

Vinsak’s strategic focus for the remainder of 2026 is anchored in sustainability, with machinery designed to consume less energy and reduce ink wastage compared to previous generations. This extends to the company’s consumables portfolio, which includes food-grade inks and toners for regulated industries. Addressing the cost of sustainable shifts, Bajaj insists that the responsibility should be shared across the value chain.

The group anticipates a busy year ahead, with a focus on North American and European markets where the demand for connected packaging and shorter, more sustainable supply chains is reaching a critical mass.