There’s an old saying, “It’s not what you know it’s who you know,” and it certainly rings true in the label industry.

Having strong relationships is of paramount importance, up and down the supply chain. From your employees to your customers to your suppliers and even your competitors, loyalty, trust and integrity can make or break your business.

For evidence, look no further than TLMI, our industry’s premier association of label converters and suppliers. At the recent TLMI Converter Meeting, I marveled at how tight-knit this industry is, and how beneficial it is for converters to have close relationships with each other.

TLMI converter members – who are in fact competitors – routinely both ask and offer each other advice on a number of pressing issues. Just some of the topics they discuss: equipment and technology adoption and purchases, finding and retaining top talent, technical printing and converting challenges they face. (For more on the 2019 TLMI Converter Meeting, turn to page 30.)

There is a sense of closeness in our industry, and I don’t know if it exists in others. Still though, there are converters that are too timid to share information, and to a degree I can understand it. But I think the benefits of transparency and a willingness to share ideas and experiences far outweigh potential negatives.

Take label press adoption, for example. A purchase of this magnitude is a major decision, and often can be one in the 7-figure category. Are you just going to take a supplier on their word that their technology is the best fit for your business? Of course not. Part of a press-buyers due diligence includes candid conversations with users of those particular machines. You’ll want the inside scoop on not only all of the benefits the equipment provides, but also the challenges faced along the way. Many converters are more than happy to open their doors and give their peers a firsthand look at a press or piece of finishing equipment.

Speaking of presses, in this issue we feature an article on flexo presses. Despite the proliferation of digital print technology, flexo is as relevant as ever. Turn to page 58 to learn how OEMs are innovating to not only keep up with digital, but also attract the workforce of tomorrow. While many have their doubts about the future of manufacturing, the label industry is as healthy as it’s ever been, and it’s due to the innovative efforts of those behind the technology.

I often receive phone calls from people asking if I know of any label companies looking to sell.  People want in. Be glad you are in this industry and grateful for the relationships you have, they are perhaps more important than your most expensive piece of equipment.


Steve Katz, Editor
[email protected]
Twitter: @LabelSteve