JK Paper Ltd, the largest producer of branded paper, is increasing its production capacity from 2.94 lakh tonnes to 4.59 lakh tonnes per annum within one year.
The company, which manufactures high-end digital printing paper with HP's ColorLok technology, has two production units at JK Pur in Orissa and in Songadh in Gujarat. It has already invested Rs 1,700 crore in JK Pur to set up a brand new paper machine from Voith, Germany. This will be commissioned by 2013 and reach the 4.59 lakh tonne capacity, Mr A. K.Ghosh, Vice-President, (Marketing and Sales – Paper), said.
Both production units have been certified by HP and Spencer Laboratory, the world's leading laboratory for printing and paper in the US, he said.
Mr Ghosh, who was here in connection with a road show, told
The paper introduced in the market with the ColorLok technology will be more eco-friendly, reduces paper jamming and will suit high-speed digital machines. ColorLok paper reduces printing costs significantly, he added.
Distribution centres
The company is focussing more on Kerala market by opening more distribution centres. It already has centres in Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode, he said and added that more centres would be opened in remaining districts shortly. At present, JK Paper sells g around 300 tonnes in Kerala, which would be increased to 500 tonnes by 2013.
The market for premium paper in the State is valued at Rs 12 crore a month, with a growth rate of 8-10 per cent. There is an exponential growth in the economy segment, which is growing at 14 to 15 per cent. The company with a share of Rs 4 crore a month, is targeting a combined market share of 40 per cent in the premium and economy segment after October , he said.
According to Mr Ghosh, steps have also been taken to create awareness among the users and school students in the State about the benefits of ColorLok technology paper, which not only enhances the printing quality but increase the life of the printing devices.