The future of flex is now seemed to be in stake! A concern over the hazardous nature of this low cost printing material has been noticed in many parts of the world. Today this wave has arrived in India too. In Kerala, following the state government’s imposition of a complete ban on the use of thin plastic bags as well as disposable cups and containers in the food industry, now the warning signal is pointed to flex banners and billboards flaunting in the public places. The state government recently directed the concerned authorities to ensure removal of all unauthorised flex boards and hoardings, apart from the ones being installed with permission of local civic bodies that would only be allowed to remain till the contracted period is over.

It’s quite a known fact that flex contains harmful chemicals and ingredients. But what it turned out to be equally challenging to the industry fellows on the other side was the instant decision taken by the Kerala government on curbing the use of flex banners and billboards in public places. This decision agitated the state trade organisation, Kerala Vyapari Vyavasayi Ekopana Samithi (KVVES), which protested against the government’s move. Thus the ban was eventually put in abeyance, considering the interests of entrepreneurs and people employed in this sector. But the government is still in alert mode to carry out the ban in phased manner.

Yes, every one of us in the industry is very much aware about ‘green’ or environment-friendly technologies and materials. However, flex occupies quite a larger volume of works in the current market since this material is the most economical medium to print. Thousands of small and medium size PSPs across the country are now running their printing and sign making business mainly using flex materials. Even in Kerala, according to KVVES, more than 2,000 flex printing units are dependants. So, the complete ban on flex printing in the state will surely hold back the market growth and may even uproot the employment opportunities of many. Banning flex materials is an approach for the betterment in general which surely provides safety and quality. But the ban needs to be made with a humanitarian approach under a steady measure.

In this issue, the popular hill station Shimla is scanned under our Region Exclusive column. And the signage players in this city are very much aware about the trend of eco-friendly machines and materials now surfacing gradually in the market. They agree to the fact that the industry is now heading towards the quality and hazard-free world. As long as the future of the signage market of Shimla is concerned, every sign maker in the city feels that the adoption of high-end machines and technologies will be the ultimate measure to meet the requirements in the way it ought to be. Of course, Shimla sign makers are also going forward, but not rushing, beyond flex!

Finally, I wish you all a warm festive season ahead!

– Sonal Khurana
sonal@smediagroup.in