Even though it feels like just yesterday, a lot has happened in the four years between events. Digital printing has evolved from a nice-to-have technology to a necessity in 2023, and automation has exploded. Of course, the industry also deftly handled the pandemic. Not only did many companies thrive during that difficult time period, but they adopted practices that remain an essential part of their business philosophy today.

The newest printing presses and label converting equipment will feature tools to promote efficiency in your plant. This includes, but is not limited to, cloud connectivity and real-time data collection to streamline printers’ operations. The technology will span nine halls.

Plus, sustainability will be featured at nearly every booth. From leading substrate suppliers to equipment manufacturers, all facets of the supply chain will be focused on curbing waste – both to protect the environment and boost the bottom line. Much like digital printing, sustainability was a perk in 2019. Now, it’s imperative.

And for those who haven’t heard, the next iteration of Labelexpo Europe will mark the finale for Brussels. The event will shift to Barcelona, Spain, in 2025. Barcelona offers more than 40,000 hotel rooms, which is estimated to be double of what’s currently available in Brussels. The new venue is a mere 15-minute drive from the airport, and more than 4,800 parking spaces are available on-site. The move will clearly accommodate the industry’s continued growth.

For now, we eagerly anticipate the debut of numerous products. As someone who was privileged enough to be included on the judging panel for the Global Label Awards, I can only offer a glimpse into what will be on display. World premieres will take place for the HP Indigo 200K press, the Xeikon CX500t Titon toner press, and the Screen Truepress PAC520P water-based packaging press. From a material standpoint, Fedrigoni and UPM Raflatac have both touted new product launches, already.

Meanwhile, the Mark Andy PRO Series will make its debut. I recently sat down with Mark Andy’s Gretchen Tobol at FINAT to explore the new servo-driven press line. For more insight on that press launch, turn to page 66 for the interview.

The abundance of new product announcements slated to debut in September illustrates the excitement building around Labelexpo Europe. To get an in-depth overview on what’s in store for the event, head over to page 62 for our Labelexpo Product Preview. We can’t wait to see these new products in action. The world will also be watching.


Greg Hrinya, Editor
[email protected]