Labelexpo Europe 2025 will deliver an enhanced education and community program. When the doors open at Fira Gran Via Barcelona on the 16^th of September, visitors will step into the show’s largest iteration yet and a strong education and community space. 

Over the past few months, the show has announced a series of “firsts,” making it one of the most anticipated editions in its 45-year history: the move to Barcelona, a wider focus on folding cartons and flexible packaging embracing the whole spectrum of the labels and outer packaging embellishment industry, the introduction of a dedicated space to address relevant industry topics and the affiliation of some of the most respected visionaries sharing their expertise on the show floor as Labelexpo ambassadors. 

Education for business growth

New to Labelexpo Europe 2025 is The Pulse Arena, a dedicated space designed to be the epicenter for education and networking and addressing the industry’s most current and pressing challenges. The spacious feature area offers complimentary access to visitors and will showcase pioneering advancements and discuss groundbreaking ideas focusing on sustainability – with an emphasis on PPWR, diversification opportunities for label converters into flexible packaging and folding cartons, and the future of AI and automation in the package printing industry.

Over 25% of existing exhibitors at Labelexpo Europe 2025 have portfolios that reach across labels, flexible packaging, and folding cartons. This convergence of technologies demonstrates how Labelexpo is now embracing the whole spectrum of the labels and outer packaging embellishment industry. 

Responding to these industry shifts, The Label Academy is delivering a master class on Folding Cartons for Label Converters. 

RFID Growth

RFID is a key technology that will help brands comply with mandates such as PPWR and the Digital Product Passport, track products across global supply chains ,and engage with consumers. The Label Academy RFID Technology Master Class will explore how label converters can enter this market, including all stages of manufacturing RFID labels, testing and encoding.

Visitors will leave with a clear understanding of how the technology works and the full range of possible applications.  

Andy Thomas-Emans, strategic director of Labelexpo Global Series, says: “As our industry embraces the convergence of technologies across labels, flexible packaging and folding cartons, and brands develop new needs for smart and sustainable packaging technology, education becomes the critical bridge to success. The Pulse Arena and our specialized Master Classes equip professionals with the knowledge to navigate PPWR compliance, diversification opportunities, and emerging AI applications—ensuring they are prepared for tomorrow’s challenges today.”

Renowned industry experts and speakers 

Across the Pulse program, Labelexpo ambassadors will act as keynote speakers or session leaders driving conversations across flexible packaging, folding carton, materials, sustainability and automation and AI. 

The Labelexpo ambassadors are: Chris Ellison – managing director, OPM Labels and Packaging Group Ltd; Corey Reardon – president and CEO, AWA Alexander Watson Associates; Marius Tent – founder, ViaPackaging UG and 360 PackMastery; Will Parker – senior packaging industry executive; and Steve Metcalf – founder, CEO, and Chief AI Officer of IMAGINE AI LIVE. These appointed visionaries are also sharing their insights across the Labelexpo channels, including in this exclusive video.

Another speaker highlight is acclaimed sustainability thought leader Dr. Leyla Acaroglu, who will deliver an inspiring and informative keynote session that promises to challenge the boundaries between design, business, and innovation.

Jade Grace, managing director, Labelexpo Global Series, remarks, “Our partnership with renowned industry leaders and experts as Labelexpo ambassadors represents a significant step forward in delivering exceptional value for show visitors. These visionaries bring unbiased insights that will help our community navigate challenges and embrace opportunities across the evolving package printing landscape.”

Community that builds meaningful connections 

As the world’s leading label and package printing industry event, Labelexpo Europe 2025 will promote many opportunities for the community to connect and celebrate. 

A pre-event industry run on the 15^th of September will see peers converging for a fun morning while enjoying stunning views of Barcelona. 

Girls Who Print (GWP), a global, nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting women across their careers in print and graphic communications, will host a dedicated event with leaders Deborah Corn, executive director, and Pat McGrew, managing director, designed to inspire skill-building and spark meaningful connections.

Andrew Galloway, group director EMEA, Labelexpo Global Series, says, “Labelexpo has always been more than an exhibition. It’s where our industry comes together to share, learn, and grow. The community spirit at Labelexpo Europe 2025 goes beyond business. It’s about creating meaningful connections that drive our industry forward.”