Throughout the label industry, there has been a strong emphasis on flexible packaging. Converters are seizing on growth opportunities in this booming market by adding flexible packaging capabilities to their product offerings. Walk down any aisle at the grocery store, and the trend is clear. Flexible packaging is here. 

It’s no secret why flexible packaging is making greater inroads with label converters – and label shows. There is clear growth and opportunity.

According to a new report by DataM Intelligence 4 Market Research LLP, the North American flexible packaging market – which was valued at $48.21 billion in 2024 – is projected to reach $63.69 billion by 2033. The market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 3.02%.

The biggest industry players are taking note, too. HP has continued to strengthen its leadership position in digital flexible packaging. According to HP, flexible packaging has become the fastest-growing segment in the print industry. Brand owners’ needs for agility, personalization, sustainability, and shorter product lifecycles have driven the trend.

Converters recognize the trend, as well. Constantia Flexibles, the world’s third-largest flexible packaging company, has been recognized for its leadership in environmental transparency and sustainability by CDP. With more brands opting for flexible packaging, Constantia Flexibles is ensuring these solutions are sustainable. Its submission earned an A rating. 

CDP applies a rigorous and independent methodology to evaluate disclosure quality, risk awareness, environmental management, and evidence of best practice. Scores range from A to D-. In 2025, more than 22,100 companies disclosed, 877 of them made the Corporate A List – placing Constantia Flexibles among the top 4% of all companies scored.

Due to the strong growth in flexible packaging, LOUPE Americas – formerly Labelexpo –  will emphasize flexible packaging and folding cartons (Read more on page 41) alongside its label offerings. Flexible packaging has already made strong inroads with converters as they expand their book of business. That demand has prompted Labelexpo to rebrand, with a focus on the applications impacting label converters today.

Tasha Ventimiglia, group director, Americas, Informa Markets, states, “Labels are still the fundamental core. We’re targeting disruption in the carton and flexible packaging market that has been taking place over the last 10 years. There has been a flexible packaging ecosystem with wider presses that we’ve seen built up inside Labelexpo. And we anticipate that with folding carton.

“Exhibitors have indicated they’re in multiple sectors, and this is a chance to showcase that equipment and these products that they offer,” she adds. “You can have someone from your team there at the event to talk about it. This shift will start in the Americas but move to all the global shows.”

With greater focus on flexible packaging – from converters and trade shows alike – growth should continue in the near and long term. For those interested in expanding their business, the opportunities are there – in greater numbers than ever before.

Greg Hrinya, Editor
ghrinya@rodmanmedia.com