Ferdinand Rüesch IV of Gallus Ferd. Rüesch AG and Paul Teachout of Harper Corporation of America have been named the recipients of the label industry’s most prestigious awards at the 2024 Label Industry Global Awards.
Ferdinand Rüesch IV, Senior Vice President, Global Key Accounts, Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG, and Gallus Ferd. Rüesch AG, has been awarded the R. Stanton Avery Special Recognition Award, sponsored by Avery Dennison. This award honors individuals who reflect the values and vision of Stan Avery, whose innovations laid the foundation of the label industry. Rüesch, who took over the Gallus Group business from his father in the 1990s, has played a pivotal role in expanding Gallus globally, establishing subsidiaries in several countries.
Upon receiving the award, Rüesch remarked, “With my retirement on the horizon, I’ve been reflecting on many things. When Andy Thomas-Emans called to tell me I had won this award, I was speechless! The last 45 years of serving the industry flashed through my mind like a movie. I am thrilled, touched, and deeply honored.”
Ryan Yost, Global President, Materials Group at Avery Dennison, praised Rüesch, stating, “His dedication to the industry and global leadership not only inspired his own team at Gallus but also set an example of excellence for the industry. This award celebrates Ferdinand’s vast achievements and contributions over the last 45 years.”
Paul Teachout, Technical Marketing and Content Specialist at Harper Corporation of America, was honored with the Label Industry Global Achievement Award. This award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the label industry on both national and international levels. Teachout, who is also the chair of the FTA and sits on several educational boards, has been actively involved in industry initiatives, including the Phoenix Challenge High School competition.
Reflecting on his award, Teachout said, “I am extremely proud and honored to be the recipient of this year’s Global Achievement Award and to be included on a long list of amazingly influential people. I have had the opportunity to work with so many amazing people and global leaders. To be recognized and awarded for your passion is the most rewarding and humbling experience of my career.”
The winners of the Rising Star and Converter of the Year awards will be announced at the Labelexpo Americas 2024 ceremony on September 10 in Rosemont, Illinois. The shortlisted nominees include Alex Abbott of Smart Solve, Christian Bortolin of Ammon Print, and Zach Janowski of Wilson Manufacturing for the Rising Star Award, and Any Graphics (India), Harkwell (UK), and NextGen Label Group (US) for the Converter of the Year Award.