Submissions are now being invited as the tenth Label Industry Global Awards are open for entries. Open to all members of the label industry; printers/converters and suppliers, the awards will be held during Labelexpo Europe on September 24 at the Event Lounge in Brussels. Designed to celebrate, honor and reward organizations and individuals for business excellence and best practice, this year’s award program has four categories.

The R. Stanton Avery Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by Avery Dennison, recognizes the values and vision of Stan Avery and his pioneering efforts. To qualify nominees must have worked in the label industry for a minimum of 25 years and made a key contribution to the promotion and growth of the sector. 2013’s winner will join fellow industry innovators including RotoMetric’s Steve Lee, Helmut Schreiner, Nilpeter’s Lars Eriksen, Terry Fulwiler of WS Packaging group and FLEXcon’s Neil McDonough.

The Award for Innovation is for a specific innovation introduced by a supplier/converter company in the label industry during 2012. The innovation can refer to either a new technology or business practice. Entries will be judged upon strict criteria including the degree of innovation, the practical impact on the innovator and their clients, its overall concept, economic and environmental aspects.

The Award for Sustainability, sponsored by Xeikon, will be presented for a specific sustainable product or process introduced by a supplier or converter company during 2012. Judges will be looking for a company that has maintained the most sustainable and environmentally acceptable working practices in its purchasing and manufacturing operations and can demonstrate key materials, production and performance or consumer benefits.

The European Converter of the Year Award, sponsored by Flint Group Narrow Web, will be awarded to a European label printing/converting company that has demonstrated a good record of innovation, developed successful product sales within the European community or become a global supplier in special or niche areas of operation. Judges will also look for companies that have invested in environmental/sustainability solutions or the development of environment-friendly products, have a solid record of staff training and development and an involvement with its local community.

Mike Fairley, chair of the judges says, “As the label industry’s very own Oscars, I would encourage entries from suppliers, converters and printers across the globe. The standard of entries is always high, but it is an effective way to benchmark and demonstrate your best practice and commitment to excellence against your competitors. In an industry where innovation and continual improvement in operations and processes is of paramount importance, the Label Industry Global Awards acknowledge and honor the sector’s hardest working and very best.”

Any company can enter these awards, subject to meeting the entry criteria. Entry is free and submissions need to be received by Friday 31 May 2013. Short-listed finalists will be announced in June following judging at FINAT’s Congress. Entries can be made online and full details are available at www.labelawards.com.