I recently returned from the FINAT Annual Conference in Berlin and thought I would share a brief snapshot of the event with this short video link. I find great value in attending, especially the positive networking opportunities, educational sessions, and a chance to reconnect with industry friends. While fierce competitors at close quarters at dinners and in the event meeting rooms may seem like an unwise idea to some printers, and the expense of joining such a group somewhat daunting to a new operation, I would like to share with those thinking of joining FINAT why the active members continue to find great value in participation.

Digital print technology has brought considerable change to label converting, as it has to all other print arenas. The international label industry association, FINAT, which mentors the complex supply chain that a ‘label’ represents today, recently decided that the time had come to establish some real metrics.

If you have plans to visit Labelexpo Europe, but you have not found a hotel yet, you can still make use of the FINAT room allotment at the Warwick Barsey, but you have to act soon.

The flag bearers of the European label industry -- the international label association FINAT and Labelexpo Europe founders Tarsus Ltd -- are celebrating the 25th anniversary of their partnership this year at the biggest-ever Labelexpo show, taking place at the Brussels Expo, 25-28 September.

In a world that is currently undergoing the ‘Fourth Industrial Revolution’, it is not surprising that our world of labelling is also experiencing major change – at all levels… Labels have never seemed more central to the overall packaging sector! As any converter will tell you, they are today not just glue applied or self-adhesive, but also shrink, stretch, and sleeves, folding cartons, and in-mould labels, and even undertake the role of ‘label print’ on today’s increasingly-popular flexible packaging pouches.

In his book “The Fourth Industrial Revolution”, Founder and Executive Chairman Klaus Schwab of the World Economic Forum describes the technological mega forces behind the fundamental changes that will impact (if not already) the way we live, work, consume and produce (see also the video below). The 4th industrial revolution, or Industry 4.0, is described as the current trend of automation and data exchange in manufacturing technologies.

Not one label is the same – different applications require different digital technologies, which is precisely why printing is such an exciting business. Whether it is for pharma, wine & spirits, durables, health & beauty, industrial chemicals or beverages, every label comes with its own aesthetic and functional requirements.

Labelexpo Europe 2017 is gearing up for its biggest edition to date, with the four-day trade show being held during 25-28 September at Brussels Expo. Featuring over 650 exhibitors, the show will highlight the very latest in cutting-edge developments for the label and package printing market.

At the end of 2016, BPIF Labels Chairman John Bambery announced his retirement, after many years of service to the British and European label community. His farewell took place on the occasion of the meeting of the National Associations Board between the leadership of FINAT and national label associations across Europe. With John, BPIF Labels and FINAT will lose a remarkable, ‘hands-on’ member who dedicated an important part of his professional and post-professional career to the label community. Reason for FINAT to invite John to share his memories, as a tribute to his contribution but also as a source of inspiration for future generations.

Exhibitors participating in the Linerless Trail have been announced as the popular feature area makes its return to Labelexpo Europe 2017’s show floor. Established to help increase sustainability levels within the industry and accelerate zero waste adoption, the Linerless Trail will benefit printers looking to improve their green credentials.