Label & Narrow Web posted more news than ever in 2013, but some managed to catch our readers’ eyes more than others. What follows is a list of our top news stories from the year, based on page views.


Spear acquired by Constantia Flexibles – February 
Based in Vienna, Austria, Constantia Flexibles is a leading flexible packaging group supplying customers in the food, pet food, pharmaceutical and beverage industries. 

CCL to buy two business units from Avery Dennison – February 
The businesses had combined revenue of about $910 million in 2012, making it the largest acquisition in CCL’s history. 

Lattice Labels adds Gallus EM 410 press – January
The new press is the sixth Gallus machine for Lattice Labels, but the only one with a 410mm width capability.

CCL and John Watson call off acquisition – February
The parties were unable to reach agreement on contractual terms.

Avery Dennison, CCL complete $500 million deal – July
The Designed & Engineered Solutions business, which makes pressure sensitive materials, films and adhesives, will be integrated into CCL’s label reporting segment.

Avery Dennison introduces new silicone-based adhesive – October
S8092 is designed to improve performance when labeling silicone-coated materials. 

HP enhances Indigo workflow portfolio – June
New end-to-end workflow systems and product enhancements reinforce HP Indigo’s digital label press capabilities. 

Labelink acquires Labelad – August
The combined companies provide geographic and economic advantages while increasing print capacity. 

Altana acquires Water Ink Technologies – July
The US manufacturer of inks for the narrow web market will be integrated into Altana’s coatings and sealants division under the name Actega WIT.

Summer Industries to relocate plant to Georgia – May
The company also has plants in Mississippi, New York and North Carolina.