Labelexpo Europe 2025 opens on 16 September at Fira Gran Via in Barcelona, showcasing developments in label production and outer packaging embellishment. More than 650 exhibitors are confirmed.
Tech spotlight
The show will feature presses across conventional, digital and hybrid configurations, with tighter integration into digital workflows. New developments in flexography, hybrid presses, rotary and semi-rotary offset, flexible packaging, folding cartons, and digital press technology will be on display. Organisers expect advances in machine automation and AI integration that may influence converting operations.
"Labelexpo has always been the definitive platform where the latest industry breakthroughs have been showcased. As we approach the next edition, we're seeing sustainability and automation join forces as the primary drivers of innovation. Automation technology, increasingly powered by AI-driven machine learning, is transforming production while positively impacting sustainability," said Andy Thomas-Emans, strategic director, Labelexpo Global Series. Read more from Thomas- Emans here.
Learning hub
The Pulse Arena is new this year, providing a stage for education and networking with daily presentations on sustainability, PPWR, flexible packaging, folding cartons, and AI and automation. The Label Academy will run master classes on 'Folding Cartons for Label Converters' and 'RFID Technology'.
Green focus
Sustainability is central to the show. Exhibitors will showcase sustainable materials and technologies, supported by educational sessions at The Pulse Arena. A keynote by Dr Leyla Acaroglu will address the intersection of design, business, and innovation.
Operational measures include the Better Stands initiative, encouraging recyclable materials for exhibitor stands, and a partnership with DMP Europe to divert printed materials from landfill by repurposing label matrix waste.
"Sustainability isn't just a feature of Labelexpo Europe 2025. From exhibitors’ showcase of sustainable materials and technologies to dedicated educational sessions, the show creates meaningful conversations about the future of our industry. I'm particularly proud of the operational commitments through initiatives like Better Stands and the partnership with DMP Europe, both of which transform what would be waste into valuable resources," said Jade Grace, managing director, Labelexpo Global Series.
Community vibe
The show includes a pre-show industry run on 15 September, Festa Barcelona and the inaugural Labels & Labeling Global Awards on 16 September, and a Girls Who Print event. Labelexpo ambassadors will deliver keynote, Q&A and meet & greet sessions covering folding cartons, flexible packaging, materials, sustainability, and AI and automation.
"The community spirit at Labelexpo Europe 2025 goes beyond business, it's about creating enduring connections that drive our industry forward. The show remains the space where businesses expand and deals are made, in addition to providing a fertile environment to grow connections that matter," said Andrew Galloway, group director EMEA, Labelexpo Global Series.
Special exhibitor features
The Label Trail, developed by Avery Dennison, CERM, CarbonQuota, Esko, Grafisk Maskinfabrik, KURZ, SCRIBOS, and Xeikon, will explore modern label production with a focus on carbon measurement, sustainability, and smart packaging. ETI, Martin Automatic, Lundberg Tech, and LemuGroup will demonstrate a live automated production line producing labels for European converter Mirmar.
Labelexpo Europe 2025 runs from 16–19 September. Expo passes cost €95. More information is available on the Labelexpo Europe 2025 website.