After more than a year of adjusting to new methods of working and communication, there is hope that we will regain some semblance of normalcy in the fall. From the converters and suppliers I’ve talked to, there appears to be a real sense of optimism that traveling will soon be on the horizon.

The big event on our industry’s fall calendar is Label Congress, which will take place in Rosemont, IL, USA. This new event from the Labelexpo team will function on a smaller scale than Labelexpo Americas. Of course, the North American and European versions of Labelexpo are expected to return in their full form in 2022. Label Congress, which will feature a conference schedule and exhibit hall, will give the industry an opportunity to re-enter the world of face-to-face meeting and networking.

The Donald E. Stephens Convention and Conference Center, the location for both Labelexpo Americas and the new Label Congress, recently announced that it will resume hosting public events in July, with a host of safety measures in place. The Convention Center will be accredited by the Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC), which ensures that proper cleaning and disinfecting protocols have taken place.

“The health and safety of our attendees is our highest priority,” says Chris Stephens, Convention Center executive director. “We closely track and follow all best practices and guidance from the CDC and the Illinois Department of Public Health.”

Label Congress is just one of numerous events that will be soon approaching. TLMI anticipates arrival in Naples, FL, in October for the Annual Meeting, while Dscoop is planning a smaller-scale event in San Diego, CA, during the same month. The ICEC USA Technical Conference is also scheduled to take place in the latter part of 2021, along with multiple AWA events.

While these events are expected to take place, attendance will bear watching. Networking is an integral part of the fabric of the label and package printing space. However, many companies have adjusted seamlessly to a virtual way of life. There is still a degree of uncertainty, and with not everyone vaccinated, it remains to be seen how many companies will send their teams to conferences, trade shows and open houses.

In speaking with a supplier contact, a hybrid approach might make sense – at least in the short term. This could include attendance but without equipment, at least in the initial phases of a return to travel.

While it seems likely that a return to our accustomed way of life is near, the operations could look quite different as we all adjust – taking into account the trials and tribulations of 2020. If it can be done safely, resuming face-to-face contact will be welcome for many. I, for one, cannot wait to see you again out on the road.


Greg Hrinya, Editor
[email protected]