The anticipation for Labelexpo Americas continues to hit new heights, as converters and suppliers are prepared for the next iteration of the popular tradeshow. From September 10-12, 2024, attendees will journey to Rosemont, IL, outside Chicago, to see the newest labeling technologies in-person.

The most recent version of Labelexpo Americas took place in 2022, not long after the pandemic and supply chain issues affected the industry. As businesses start to see an uptick in 2024, Labelexpo Americas promises to leave a lasting impact. Exhibitors are already preparing booths that address the latest requirements from the label and package printing industry, from automation and digital printing to sustainability.

“The industry is very excited for the return of Labelexpo Americas,” notes Tasha Ventimiglia, group director, Labelexpo Americas. “It’s really the only event for our industry to meet up face-to-face, make professional connections, and discover what’s the latest on offer, from the latest advancements in technology to high-level educational content and expanded networking opportunities.”

Due to the challenges facing the industry in 2022, Labelexpo Americas experienced a subdued return following its hiatus. However, more exhibitors are planned – still some four months out from the show – which will lead to an action-packed show floor. In addition to labels, the event will highlight some of the more popular technologies enabling converters to expand their book of business.

“We have had excellent feedback from our Labelexpo Americas exhibitors, and our event is already larger than it was in 2022,” states Ventimiglia. “On the attendee side, we are very close with our label converters, suppliers, and key label associations, and they were all very positive about the return of the show. The industry is excited to get together at Labelexpo Americas in September, especially as we diversify into a true package printing show, showcasing not only labels but also flexible packaging.”

In 2024, Labelexpo Americas will also coincide with PRINTING United, which takes place across the same dates in Las Vegas, NV. The Labelexpo team has confidence in the industry’s response to the scheduling conflict, based on recent feedback from attendees and exhibitors.

“It’s extremely unfortunate that PRINTING United is now over the same dates as Labelexpo Americas 2024,” explains Ventimiglia. “While we are disappointed that PRINTING United had changed its dates to the same week as Labelexpo, we want attendees to know that Labelexpo Americas 2024 is a focused show dedicated to the label and package printing space. There is nowhere else where you can find all the latest trends and technologies in this dynamic industry, all under one roof.”

Labelexpo Americas is expected to grow this year, too. In 2022, the event notably featured only digital printing equipment. Flexo will make a welcome return to Labelexpo Americas 2024, as Mark Andy is bringing one new flexo press, as well as digital and hybrid equipment. Nilpeter will demonstrate a 26” FA-26 for the first time in the US along with an FB-14 press, which comes in both 14” and 17” widths. The event will also include new features, such as FlexPack@Labelexpo, which will showcase short run, added-value flexible packaging, including all the ancillary equipment, thermal lamination, pouching equipment, materials, and coatings required to enter this demanding market.

“Attendees can expect to see hundreds of live demonstrations showcasing the latest digital and flexo press technology, finishing equipment, materials, inks, and preproduction systems,” says Ventimiglia. “At the Innovation Stage, exhibitors will get the opportunity to showcase their latest technologies. There will also be Label Academy masterclasses on shrink sleeves and flexible packaging and a workshop on RFID technology for label converters, aligning with the key trends to be seen at the show. This educational series will provide attendees with expert guidance into how they can enter or expand their label production into new, lucrative markets, add value and streamline their current operations.

“In addition, there will be expanded networking opportunities, including a converter leadership lunch taking place on September 10th,” she adds. “The lunch will feature a high-level converter leadership panel discussion, followed by a delegate Q&A, alongside an exclusive networking opportunity with peer CEOs and thought leaders from major converting groups.”

Plus, a keynote breakfast will take place on September 11th, which will include a high-level keynote session on automation and AI, followed by an expert-led panel discussion, alongside an exclusive networking opportunity with industry leaders.

Labelexpo Americas has placed a premium on addressing the latest industry trends, both at the booths and with educational content.

“TLMI, the sponsoring partner for Labelexpo Americas 2024, will host an Eco Stage on the first two days of the show, presenting the latest developments in sustainability,” explains Ventimiglia.   “Labelexpo Americas has also partnered once again with Convergen Energy, TLMI, and Rosemont Exposition Services on a label waste sustainability program. The program is aimed at saving any printed materials, that would otherwise be going to landfill, at Labelexpo Americas 2024.”