L&NW survey highlights expectations for LOUPE Americas

In a recent L&NW survey, more than 130 participants illustrated their expectations for the label and packaging industry’s premier show. LOUPE Americas, formerly Labelexpo, will return to Rosemont, IL, USA, from September 15-17, 2026, but this time with a new name and refreshed look.

In addition to labels, the event will spotlight various forms of packaging – from flexible packaging and shrink sleeves to folding cartons. Nearly one year ago, show officials announced the name change to LOUPE at Labelexpo Europe. The new title has received mostly optimism. Only 13% view the name change negatively, with 60.5% remaining neutral and another 26% reacting positively or very positively.

According to the survey, which featured 55% suppliers and 34% converter members, 87.3% of attendees will journey to LOUPE Americas to see pressure sensitive labeling technologies. Another 45.5% are interested in learning more about flexible packaging, while smart labels represented the segment with the third highest interest. And the show will attract new attendees, as well. Of those surveyed, 22% will represent first-time, while more than half (51%) have visited between two and six Labelexpo events.

From a technology standpoint, the vast majority of attendees will seek out digital label printing solutions. Of the 134 respondents, 79% will explore digital press technologies, with 67% also looking at the newest flexo press capabilities. With interest high in printing presses, it comes as no surprise that 63% will seek out hybrid presses, too.

Outside of printing presses, LOUPE attendees will investigate in finishing and substrates, which both finished in a tie with 48 respondents. Inspection and ink and coating technologies ranked third and fourth, respectively.

Additionally, attendees are eagerly anticipating LOUPE Americas’ expansive educational agenda. The sessions, which will be held throughout the week, will cover a wide range of topics. More than half of our respondents are seeking information on market trends. Digital printing and automation/AI rank second and third, respectively.

Seeking solutions

Many of the attendees will be seeking out solutions to help their converting businesses overcome numerous challenges. While the industry has long proven to be resilient and nimble in the face of adversity, there are several obstacles top of mind for guests. Rising costs, headlined by tariffs and inflation, drew attention from 54% of respondents, with supply chain issues and a need for digital printing right behind.

Despite those challenges, survey respondents are bullish on the industry’s future. More than 50% of respondents plan to invest in new equipment over the next 12 months, with another 25% unsure. With technology improving by the day, 31% plan on investing in AI and software, while another 25% will explore digital press purchasing. Flexo advancements, finishing equipment, smart labeling, and sustainability also received votes.

Companies will continue to explore the rapid growth of AI, leading to further investment. Currently, the vast majority of respondents (50%) are using the technology, but in a limited fashion. Meanwhile, 14% are advanced or using AI across multiple businesses. Nearly 20% are in the evaluation phase with AI.

In the future, rising costs (41%) will remain the highest concern. Finding new customers (18%) and labor shortages (12%) also registered as trends to watch in the upcoming year. The expansion of LOUPE Americas will seek to cover all these trends – and more – as record attendance is expected in Rosemont.