Labelexpo Americas 2022 review

It was a landmark moment. After three years of pandemic setbacks, Labelexpo Global Series returned with its Americas show, hosted from September 13-15 at the Donald E Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois. 

The buzz was palpable. Labelexpo Americas event organizers reported that more than 13,500 attendees, representing 77 countries turned up to see what innovations have been launched since the last Labelexpo event in Brussels in 2019. The bi-annual Americas event welcomed large numbers of first-time attendees, particularly from Latin American countries.

This edition of Labelexpo Americas was notable for its digital transformation. With no flexo presses on the show floor, digital press manufacturers essentially had the show to themselves, and the focus was squarely on the latest developments in digital printing and digital embellishment.  

There were many global digital press debuts at the show, including HP Indigo’s V12 digital press, the Durst 20in Tau RSCi, Domino N730i and Dantex Pico 1200s. 

On the converting side, automation and digital replacement of analog processes were key themes, as label converters across the globe face a critical labor shortage and are looking for ways to do more with less. A Digital Embellishment Trail allowed visitors to assess printed examples of tactile finishes and digital metallization.

Sustainability also was demonstrated across the show floor, with TLMI hosting a series of presentations on its Eco Stage and arranging the recycling of printed rolls into fuel pellets. Material and ink suppliers looked to spark innovation in sustainability, as a paper shortage and chaos in the supply chain looms. 

In addition to cutting-edge technology and innovations launched at the show, Labelexpo Americas 2022 featured a packed education program including conference sessions on topics such as mergers and acquisitions, opportunities in flexible packaging and navigating an unpredictable supply chain. 

A well-attended global market overview session discussed industry trends at the highest level. 

Two expert-led Label Academy Master Classes covered digital embellishment and self-adhesive label materials. 

Linnea Keen, president of TLMI, comments: ‘Labelexpo Americas 2022 was a fantastic event for our association and our members. The energy was infectious. Visitors were eager to learn, reconnect, engage, and conduct business. After three long years of conducting business virtually, it’s clear that exhibitions like Labelexpo are vital to the health of our dynamic industry. TLMI couldn’t be prouder to partner with Tarsus Group and Labelexpo on its much anticipated, and successful return. It was the reunion we all needed!’

Labelexpo’s flagship European event returns to Brussels on September 11-14. Other 2023 events include Labelexpo Southeast Asia on Feb 9-11 and Labelexpo Mexico on April 26-28. Labelexpo Americas returns to Chicago in September 2024.