Editor’s note - Labelexpo on the horizon

It benefits from the four-yearly ‘drupa boost’ when companies launch products in Dusseldorf and then show them for the first time in the US. HP Indigo brings its fastest narrow web press yet, the 8000 in-line with an AB Graphic Fast Track semi-rotary die, alongside a new in-line inkjet embellishment unit built with JetFx; Xaar’s print bar for digital embellishment; the fully automated Bobst M6 dedicated to flexible packaging production.

But in addition there is a slew of completely new launches using Labelexpo as a platform: Nilpeter’s FA-6* – again for short run flexible packaging and film labels; Durst’s worldwide launch of a new Tau press running at 75m/min at 1200 DPI resolution with near-line finishing units developed by Omet; Mark Andy adding to its digital range with the entry-level hybrid DigitalOne.

Two clear trends emerge: Labelexpo is transforming into a package printing show based around short run, smaller format work; while a new generation of inkjet embellishment tools for spot varnish and screen-like effects push forward the search for automation and efficiency in narrow web label conversion, it will be a fascinating show.