Organizers of Labelexpo Americas 2018 have confirmed details of the conference and learning program for their event, now in its 16th edition.

     

Sponsored by HP, the two-day program features 12 themed conference sessions Sept. 25 and 26, the first two days of the three-day show. Three Label Academy-led master classes will be held over the second and third days of the show.

 

The first day of the conference is designed to tackle the commercial side of the labels and package printing industry, examining key issues such as workforce development and recruitment, mergers and acquisitions, the rise of printing on demand, and implementing innovative logistics labeling. 

 

Among the session highlights is the opening CEO converter panel discussion which will explore creating a productive company and aligning with a long-term strategy; attracting new business and maintaining relationships with key clients; and using competitive pressures and industry disruption to advantage. Confirmed panelists are John McDowell, president of McDowell Label; Sandy Petersen, co-founder and owner of Digital Label Solutions; Bill Muir, president of Grand Rapids Label Company; and Micheal Lane, CEO of The Meyers Printing Companies.

 

The second day is designed around creativity, branding and innovation. Topics include unlocking flexible packaging opportunities for label converters, elevating customers’ brands with smart and connected products, preventing counterfeiting, and creating products with stand-out presence. 

 

Session highlights include the opening package printing panel discussion on understanding the market, identifying the opportunities and creating value and connecting the entire supply chain. Speakers confirmed for Day Two include Rob Daniels, president of Quality Tape & Label; Benoit Chatelard, president and CEO of Digital Printing Solutions, Flint Group; Lois Leslie, senior innovation product manager and chief marketing officer, Link Technology at HP; Greg Althoff, creative director of Rhinegeist Brewing; and Clara Meinen, owner and creative director, One Sweet Design.

 

The three in-depth master classes will cover MIS and workflow automation; shrink sleeve technology; and inks, coatings and varnishes. Attendees will also see this theory in action at the ground-breaking Automation Arena, which is making its Americas debut. 

 

“This is a fast-paced industry where it’s crucial to keep abreast of the key trends in order to remain competitive, so on-the-job professional learning never stops,” says Tasha Ventimiglia, Labelexpo Americas event director. “Our conference schedule offers a strong mix of panels, technical presentations and practical case studies highlighting actual experiences and lessons learnt, through which the major issues currently facing the labels and package printing industry will be tackled.” 

 

Labelexpo Americas will be held Sept. 25-27 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois. For full details, to book a place at the conference or to reserve a master class spot, visit www.labelexpo-americas.com/conference-program.