The organizers of Labelexpo Americas 2018 have confirmed the details of its topical conference and learning program for this year’s event – the region’s largest trade show for the label and package printing industry, now in its 16th edition.
    
The two-day program, which is sponsored by HP, comprises 12 themed conference sessions taking place on September 25 and 26, the first two days of the three-day show. A further three Label Academy led master classes also take place over the second and third days of the show.

Day one of the conference is designed to tackle the commercial side of the labels and package printing industry, examining key issues of relevance, including workforce development and recruitment, mergers and acquisitions, the rise of printing on demand, and implementing innovative logistics labeling. Among the session highlights is the opening CEO converter panel discussion which will explore: creating a productive company and aligning with a long-term strategy; attracting new business and maintaining relationships with key clients; and using competitive pressures and industry disruption to advantage. Confirmed panelists are John McDowell, president of McDowell Label; Sandy Petersen, co-founder and owner of Digital Label Solutions; Bill Muir, president of Grand Rapids Label Company; and Micheal Lane, CEO of The Meyers Printing Companies.

Day two is designed around creativity, branding and innovation. Topics include unlocking flexible packaging opportunities for label converters, elevating your customers’ brands with smart and connected products, preventing counterfeiting, and creating products with stand-out presence. Session highlights include the opening package printing panel discussion on understanding the market, identifying the opportunities and creating value and connecting the entire supply chain. Speakers confirmed for day two of the conference schedule include Rob Daniels, president of Quality Tape & Label; Benoit Chatelard, president and CEO of Digital Printing Solutions, Flint Group; Lois Leslie, senior innovation product manager and chief marketing officer, Link Technology at HP; Greg Althoff, creative director of Rhinegeist Brewing; and Clara Meinen, owner and creative director, One Sweet Design.

Three in-depth master classes will also take place on September 26 and 27. These cover MIS and workflow automation; shrink sleeve technology; and inks, coatings and varnishes. Attendees will also be able to see this theory in action at the ground-breaking Automation Arena, which is making its Americas debut.

Tasha Ventimiglia, Labelexpo Americas event director, commented:  “This is a fast-paced industry where it’s crucial to keep abreast of the key trends in order to remain competitive, so on-the-job professional learning never stops. Our conference schedule offers a strong mix of panels, technical presentations and practical case studies highlighting actual experiences and lessons learnt, through which the major issues currently facing the labels and package printing industry will be tackled.”

“The three Label Academy master classes have a particular resonance this year as for the very first time at Labelexpo Americas, attendees will be able to see in action what they learn from the experts at the Automation Arena.

“Places are limited for all conference and master class sessions, so visitors are strongly encouraged to book as soon as possible.”

Labelexpo Americas takes place from September 25-27 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Rosemont, Illinois. Spread across five exhibitions halls, well over 400 exhibitors will be taking part.