Heaford’s Sales Director, Tim Paul, recently attended his very first Labelexpo, joining a team of colleagues with many years of show experience. His observations highlight the scale, innovation, and evolving focus of this truly global event.

Visitors from 73 different countries stopped by the Heaford stand, emphasizing the company’s status as a global organization. The mix of attendees was impressive—not just numbers, but quality. Many visitors were owners, senior managers, and key decision-makers, making the interactions highly valuable.

Heaford’s partners and agents from SE Asia, the Middle East, LATAM, North America, and Europe were also present, creating a “Mount & Learn” environment where knowledge and expertise could be shared firsthand.

While Labelexpo remains label-focused, the newly announced LOUPE rebranding (Label & Outer Packaging Embellishment) reflects a shift in visitor interest. Heaford’s team observed growing curiosity in flexible packaging and corrugated solutions, signalling evolving market demands.

Automatic mounting (NWAM) drew significant attention. Visitors recognized the importance of high and repeatable accuracy, the ability to support complex print requirements, and the challenges posed by shorter production runs and varying operator skill levels.

OEM trends also stood out. Tim noted that as narrow web gets wider and wide web gets narrower, there’s a growing space for mid-range solutions—currently FTS 900 and 1100 service these requirements.

Labelexpo showcased a wide array of equipment, from conventional to digital and hybrid systems, underlining the industry’s heavy investment in innovation.

The Fastest Mounter competition was a hit once again. Tim was impressed by participants, especially first-timers, who achieved very respectable times, demonstrating both skill and enthusiasm.

Tim’s first Labelexpo experience confirmed that Heaford’s global reach, technological expertise, and commitment to customer engagement remain strong differentiators. With valuable insights gained and new connections made, the team looks forward to leveraging these learnings in the months ahead.