As the label industry descends upon Barcelona for the first time, it’s fascinating to see what exhibitors are bringing to the show. Automation, speed, AI, and sustainability are a few of the hot trends that will be on display at Labelexpo Europe 2025. For an in-depth preview, turn to page 58.

A noteworthy feature of the global tradeshow is the expansion into new markets. Traditionally a “label show,” as the title might suggest, Labelexpo Europe is spreading its wings this year. Flexible packaging and folding carton production are making their way to the show floor.

To promote growth into new markets, Labelexpo will even assist attendees who have not yet pondered an addition to their book of business. The Label Academy is hosting a half-day Master Class at Labelexpo Europe. The Master Class is targeted at label converters who are looking at diversifying into folding cartons using inline flexo/rotary offset, digital or hybrid presses. According to Informa, Labelexpo Europe 2025 will serve as a “soft launch” for folding cartons. By 2027, it is expected that folding cartons will be fully integrated into the show.

The addition of new capabilities is front and center in this month’s Narrow Web Profile on page 40. The third generation of K. Sidrane that has helped drive growth has prioritized labels, flexible packaging, and shrink sleeves for customers throughout North America. Its markets range from food and beverage to medical devices and cannabis. K. Sidrane did not become complacent. In fact, the Long Island-based converter’s expansion into flexible packaging is helping to fuel exponential growth.

The label and package printing industry has long been lauded for its ability to adapt and embrace change. This direction certainly constitutes change. But as the industry makes its way up and down the crowded aisles in Spain, attendees should remember the vast innovation taking place in the label sector. While new markets pose greater opportunities for converters – especially with equipment already in-house, in most cases – it is  labels that serve as the showstopper at Labelexpo Europe. 

Innovation is not just extending to new markets. There are significant advancements impacting pressure sensitive label production. Thinner substrates, faster printing presses, higher quality, and automated capabilities – allowing for the full production of a label run, from printing to boxing available in a single pass – are just a few of the highlights. While visitors may focus on the shiny new objects that are flexible packaging and folding cartons, brands will still require their label suppliers to deliver eye-catching designs that pop on crowded shelves. And that feature won’t be changing any time soon.

Greg Hrinya, Editor
ghrinya@rodmanmedia.com