Anticipation is mounting for the upcoming Labelexpo Europe 2023, marking the first edition since 2019. As the world’s largest label and packaging printing show, it is all set to open its doors today at the Brussels Expo from September 11 to 14.
This year’s Labelexpo Europe is gearing up to present more new technologies and live demonstrations than ever before, featuring the participation of over 600 exhibitors. Key focus areas for these technology launches include flexible packaging, digitization, and automation, all of which will be prominently showcased during the event.
One of the highlights of the event is the launch of HP’s 200k mid-web digital press, a successor to the highly successful HP Indigo 20000. HP will also run a ‘digital pouch factory’ ecosystem to demonstrate pouch manufacturing and finishing, including shrink sleeve labels.
Furthermore, HP will host a leadership panel discussion on September 12, featuring industry experts Dimitri Stamatiou, Lee Pretsell, and Jens Nilsson, who will delve into macro-economic trends affecting the labels and package printing industry, such as sustainability, labor shortages, and automation.
Digital printing of paper-based flexible packaging materials will be showcased by Xeikon on their new TX-500 Titon toner press and SCREEN on the Truepress Pac520P, a first-time appearance at Labelexpo.
Flexo printing makes a notable comeback at this year’s show, with companies like Nilpeter, Lombardi, BOBST, OMET, and Mark Andy demonstrating printing capabilities for flexible packaging and unsupported label film materials.
Sustainability takes center stage with launches including UPM Raflatac’s Ocean Action plastics label, sourced from ocean-bound plastics waste, and Avery Dennison’s AD LinrSave and AD LinrConvert linerless label systems designed for the prime label market.
The event also offers an expert-led masterclass on sustainable labels and packaging organized by The Label Academy.
Major features at Labelexpo Europe 2023 include the Automation Arena, presenting a ‘lights out’ production workflow, and the Flex Pack Trail, offering insights into digital and conventional press technologies, flexpack material constructions, and more.
A new addition this year is “Flexo’s Future – ECG,” a series of presentations and guided tours on Expanded Color Gamut (ECG) printing, with daily presentations by renowned ECG expert Dr. Kai Lankinen.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to attend the Dieline Forum, a two-day design conference exploring the latest trends and innovations in sustainable branding.
Jade Grace, Managing Director of Labelexpo Global Series, expressed her excitement, saying, “We can promise visitors an exciting show across nine halls where they will see a burst of new technology and products, everything from pre-press to materials, eco and sustainable products, and digital and conventional print and converting technology. We can’t wait to welcome all visitors and exhibitors next week at Brussels Expo.”