Sustainability remains central to RM Converters as business sees a surge

Telangana-based RM Converters is a specialist in rotogravure printing and lamination. Vedant Gupta, director at RM Converters, tells Aditya Ghosalkar about how the company is adding tech-muscle

23 Oct 2023 | By Aditya Ghosalkar

RM Converters’ Telangana plant with a total capacity of 12,000 MT

Technology adoption

Today, brands and customers are adopting newer working models. This started during the pandemic. At RM Converters, we feel digital integration is crucial in today's rapidly changing landscape. We have adopted various digital tools and platforms to streamline our processes and enhance customer experiences. For instance, we use 3D packshot approvals to facilitate quicker and more accurate design approvals with our clients.

Certifications and audits

We are committed to maintaining the highest industry standards. In addition to our 25 years of experience, we are BRCGS-certified and continually update and adapt to new certifications that align with the evolving needs and expectations of our clients.

Training and skills

We have seen a development in the technology employed in pre-press, plates and the press. Sometimes critics say, India is lagging behind in terms of its execution and operator skill sets in India. At RM Converters, we are aware of this. While technology has advanced in pre-press and printing, skill sets can vary in India. RM Converters places a strong emphasis on continuous training and skill development for our operators to ensure the efficient execution of advanced technology.

Gravure cylinders

As compared to the earlier times, procuring a gravure cylinder is not as tedious as with a fortnight waiting period. Plus, the cylinder cost has reduced. Our USP in gravure cylinder procurement lies in our efficient processes and strong industry relationships. We have reduced waiting times and costs through streamlined operations, ensuring faster delivery and cost savings for our clients.

Faster turn-around times and customers asking for jobs "yesterday"

Handling faster turn-around times and "yesterday" requests is a challenge, but our agile production processes and efficient supply chain management enable us to meet such demands. For example, we recently fulfilled an urgent order for a client by prioritising production and logistics.

Cost

In a price-sensitive market such as India where every sq cm of a substrate is a bargain. I feel, providing cost-efficiency and value addition is indeed a challenge in the price-sensitive Indian market. We tackle this by optimising our production processes, reducing waste, and investing in advanced technology. Challenges include intense competition and fluctuations in raw material costs.

Gravure challenges for short run conversion

Short- run conversion jobs in gravure can be challenging due to setup costs. However, the proportion of brands demanding short runs is increasing, and we address this by optimising our production processes and offering cost-effective solutions.

Today’s scenario

Most brands are trying to cut costs and so as a specialist we have to be very aware and vigilant to help brands in price savings. And so, to help brands in cost savings during the printing stage, we focus on efficient use of materials, process optimisation, and minimising waste. We work closely with clients to identify opportunities for cost reduction without compromising quality.

Water-based inks

There is a growing trend toward water-based inks for flexible packaging due to their eco-friendliness and lower VOC emissions. RM Converters is actively exploring these options to align with sustainability goals.

Sustainability

RM Converters is committed to sustainability. We continually invest in eco-friendly practices, materials, and processes. We perceive the progress made by major brands in their sustainability goals as a positive step toward a greener future. Many FMCG companies are pressuring converters to adopt sustainable production methods. This includes using recyclable materials, reducing waste, and minimising energy consumption.

Exports strategy

Our presence at Plexconcil was extremely beneficial for RM Converters. It allowed us to showcase our specialisation in rotogravure printing and lamination to a wide audience, helping us connect with potential clients and partners. Today, we export to several territories, including but not limited to the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Africa, catering to the global demand for quality flexible packaging solutions. We take pride in various export packaging projects, especially those involving custom designs, innovative materials, and stringent quality standards. One such project involved developing sustainable packaging for a multinational food brand.

Regional brands

Regional brands often seek flexibility, quick response times, and cost-effective solutions from converters like RM Converters. We tailor our services to meet their specific needs.

Single-family plastic laminates and non-food packaging solutions

Our work on single-family plastic laminates and non-food packaging solutions with robust moisture barriers is enabled by cutting-edge technology at our plant. Our state-of-the-art machinery and materials allow us to create innovative and sustainable packaging solutions.

Modern retail

The entry of modern retail has increased the demand for photorealistic images and graphics. RM Converters has adapted by investing in high-quality printing technology and offering enhanced design capabilities to meet this segment's requirements.

The old debate - gravure versus flexo

Gravure and flexo both have their strengths. Gravure offers exceptional print quality and consistency, while flexo is cost-effective for shorter runs. The choice depends on the specific needs of the packaging project.

The next five years

In the next five years, we envision RM Converters as a leading player in the global print and packaging industry, known for our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and customer-centric solutions. We will continue to expand our reach and capabilities to stay at the forefront of the industry.

RM Converters - at a glance

RM Converters specialises in rotogravure printing and lamination. Founded in 2011, the company provides packaging materials for all food and non-food industries using different laminate structures, also on varied substrates, including polyester, OPP, nylon, aluminium foil, paper and PE.

With a total capacity of 12,000 MT, RM Converters’ bandwagon comprises a fully-loaded co-extrusion lamination machine (FKI Taiwan-make); two printing machines; two doctoring machines; a 100% hanging system, three combi-lamination machine; two inspection machines; three SP Ultraflex Systems’ slitting machine; three-layer blown film plant with IBC and plast control.

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