Labelexpo Europe 2023 unveils education opportunities

Labelexpo is not just about exploring the latest technology on the event floor, the event organizers also have a packed agenda of educational content, in addition to leading-edge feature areas.

On the show floor, the Automation Arena will demonstrate a full ‘lights out’ production workflow, from file creation to digital printing and converting. Participants include Cerm, Esko, Xeikon, Kurz, Grafotronic and Fedrigoni Self-Adhesives. In addition to an automated setup and inspection of both printing and converting processes, the Cerm MIS will collect real-time information via a Cloud portal, which visitors can monitor on their own smart devices. Cerm will demonstrate the printing of closing labels on each roll on the turret rewind.

The event will also host a FlexPack Trail designed to show label converters how to diversify production and enter the lucrative flexible packaging market. Participants include Nilpeter, Screen, Fujifilm, AkeBoose, Agergaard Graphic Supplies, Thermal Transfer Solutions, Bellisima, Synthogra, Xeikon, Meech, Bobst, Lombardi and GEW. 

MASTER CLASSES

Visitors have the choice of two half-day master classes on 12 and 13 September. Hosted by the Label Academy, this in-depth educational series will cover flexible packaging, and sustainable labels and packaging.

The Flexible Packaging Master Class is designed to teach converters what they need to know when entering this lucrative sector. Sessions include an introduction to flexible packaging from Fernando Gordillo at HP; a look at flexible packaging substrates presented by Nanette Thomas of Synthogra; creation of artwork and pre-press with Jan de Roeck of Esko; printing processes and techniques with Alberto Redaelli of Lombardi; an update on the UVFoodSafe findings lead by Jonathan Sexton, on behalf of Finat; inks, coatings, curing and laminating, by Michelman; and converting flexible packaging, by Karlville. Steve and Harry Baker, of UK-based Baker Labels and BakPac will showcase their experience of moving into flexible packaging.

‘After almost 50 years producing self-adhesive labels, Baker Labels expanded into the digitally printed flexible packaging market in 2020,’ explains Steve Baker. ‘In the three years since we launched our BakPac flexible packaging division, we’ve been on a steep learning curve. Where there are many crossovers with label production, there are also many new challenges to overcome. It has been a very interesting
and exciting journey for us.’

The Sustainable Labels and Packaging Master Class will guide converters seeking to bolster their environmental credentials and contribute to a circular economy. Topics will help converters understand: sustainable inks and coatings from Pierre Dogliani at Flint Group; pressure-sensitive labels from Avery Dennison; and flexible packaging. Other sessions include a converter perspective on sustainability, presented by incoming CEO Paloma Alonso, and Gabriela Neves of All4Labels; how to use blockchain for sustainability benefits from Federico D’Annunzio, founder/CEO of Traent; understanding sustainability in flexible packaging, from Adam Robinson of Coveris; options for matrix waste, by Karsten Kejlhof of Lundberg Tech; turning liner waste into an opportunity, from Ophélie Gourdou of CELAB Europe; and The Holy Grail of closing the loop, presented by Jan ‘t Hart, at AIM (European Brands Association).

In addition, Pablo Englebienne, regulatory affairs and sustainability manager, Finat, will co-present with Maja Desgrées du Loû, policy officer for Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive at the European Commission, on packaging and packaging waste regulations (PPWR) and design for recycling guidelines.

Englebienne says: ‘Sustainability is at the top of the agenda of legislators, with a whirlwind of regulatory changes at the EU level taking place within the framework of the European Green Deal. I will discuss how these changes are set to impact business in the packaging industry, with a specific emphasis on label printing.’

For more on Labelexpo Europe 2023 master classes and features, visit here.

DIELINE FORUM

In addition to showfloor features and master classes, Labelexpo will play host to the first-ever branding and design conference with The Dieline. 

Organized by The Dieline, a global package design community, the two-day conference will bring together high-level industry experts, thought leaders and visionaries to explore the latest trends, innovations, and sustainable advancements shaping the future of packaging design.    

The Dieline Forum will provide a unique opportunity for participants to take part in live discussions, gain invaluable knowledge and develop meaningful connections with leading design professionals.   

The discussions will explore topics such as the branding strategies and practices that are targeted towards Gen Z and Millennials to how brands are tapping into the power of sustainability. Keynote speakers already include Jemma Wong of PlasticFree.com, Andreu Gadea of Lavernia & Cienfuegos, Jonas Andersson of Brand Union Stockholm, Jo Tulej of Mother Design, Matt Lurcock from Turner Duckworth, Brandi Parker of Here Design with more to be announced.  

Andreu Gadea, industrial designer at Lavernia & Cienfuegos commented: ‘It’s an honor to be able to participate by giving a conference at Labelexpo Europe 2023, as it is a world reference event in the packaging industry, attended by the best professionals with the latest innovations. To go hand in hand with the Dieline, one of the most prestigious organizations in the design industry, is a great pride for us.’  

Continued Gadea: ‘We will talk about one of the latest projects we have worked on and that has just been released, including the packaging for the new cosmetic line of Ecoalf, a Spanish fashion brand that is an international benchmark in the search for environmentally sustainable materials and processes.’  

Also commented, Jo Tulej, creative director at Mother Design, London: ‘I’m really looking forward to taking part in Dieline’s Forum at this year’s Labelexpo Europe in Brussels. I’ll be talking about how design plays an integral part in driving sustainable innovation and consumer adoption, referencing our recent work for period care brand Cora, which won rebrand of the year at this year’s Dieline awards.’  

Brandi Parker, sustainability consultant at Here Design, London said: ‘Which is more sustainable: existential dread or joyful imagination? We have an opportunity right now to change our collective mindsets and own our optimism. We are so excited to share ways to do just that and to help everyone notice the good already happening around them at this year's Dieline Forum at Labelexpo Europe 2023.’ 

Andrew Gibbs, Dieline founder commented: ‘We are so excited to be back in Europe and can’t think of a better partner than Labelexpo Europe. We are looking forward to seeing our European friends in Brussels for an incredible event with a slate of speakers touching on sustainable innovation and some of the best studio and agency work in the industry today. You can’t afford to miss this one.’  

Jade Grace, managing director, Labelexpo Global Series said: ‘We are delighted to be partnering with Dieline to offer this two-day conference, which is a brand-new feature for this year’s Labelexpo Europe. Sustainability is making a lasting impact in the market and how consumers are interacting with brands.  

‘With such a fantastic line-up of speakers, the Dieline Forum will be filled with thought-provoking and engaging discussions on how you can get into the psyche of the Gen Z and Millennial consumer and learn how making your brand sustainable will give you the edge.’  

Dieline member rate tickets cost EUR 200 (USD 218.91), brand owner rate tickets cost EUR 350 (USD 383.09) and printer/ converter rate tickets cost EUR 900 (USD 985.09). To register for the Dieline Forum, visit here.