As Label & Narrow Web prepares for another exciting year in the labels and packaging space, we take a look back on what the readers found most interesting in 2017. The following 10 feature stories garnered the most attention last year:

10. Labelexpo Europe product preview
Labelexpo Europe 2017 took place at the Brussels Expo in Brussels, Belgium, September 25-28. On exhibit were the newest and best products from hundreds of industry suppliers.

9. Rotary diecutting
With a wide range of substrates permeating the label and narrow web market, rotary diecutting has become as important as ever. Whether utilizing flexible or solid dies, tooling suppliers play a critical role in the finished label.

8. Synthetic paper
Per the Global Market Insights 2016 research report, the global synthetic paper market size is projected to grow to 209.7 kilotons by 2023, an estimated gain of 6.1%.

7. Latin America’s Label Market
The competitive label market in Latin America is far-reaching and incorporates a multitude of technologies and sustainable initiatives. Like other markets around the globe, Latin America has been growing, although it is more robust in some areas compared to others, where financial struggles play a role.

6. Costco shines as a model of customer service
This Customer Service column explored the state of customer service affairs, providing an excellent model to follow. It’s one that has proven itself worldwide and has led to this specialty retailer shining brightly among many also-rans. Yep, it’s Costco.

5. The future of flexo
For decades, flexography has been the dominant force in advancing the pressure sensitive label market. And while all of the prominent forecasters are predicting massive growth for digital in the coming years, analog printing for packaging will also continue to grow – by about 28% – according to Smithers Pira.

4. Food labeling
Food labels touch many aspects of the label and packaging industry. Not only do these labels need to be aesthetically pleasing, they must also adhere to a host of changing regulations. There is a delicate balance between creating a label that is attractive while being functional.

3. Craft beer label market
The proliferation of craft breweries in the United States has translated into big business for label converters. In a marketplace where the label on the outside of the bottle often means more than the liquid inside of it, creativity abounds.

2. Flexible packaging
New trends in the flexible packaging space are leading the charge for many companies trying to distinguish themselves on the crowded shelves. In doing so, brands are utilizing new materials and new techniques to enhance their bottom lines.

1. Low migration inks
In North America, the food and beverage sectors together make up a whopping 56% of the end use sector of the label market, according to 2015 data collected and reported by LPC Inc. Due to regulations that began in Central Europe, the market demand for food packaging complaint inks kicked off in mid 2000, and has been growing steadily ever since.