Labelexpo Europe 2025, set to take place in Barcelona from 16–19 September, will for the first time feature folding carton technology alongside labels and flexible packaging. Organizers say the move reflects the convergence of print technologies and rising demand for shorter runs, automation, and sustainable packaging.
Andy Thomas-Emans, Strategic Director at Informa Markets Labels & Packaging Group, described the expansion as a “natural evolution” driven by digital and inline press systems. “We’re seeing similar disruptions in folding cartons as we did a decade ago with flexible packaging,” he noted.
Folding cartons, typically printed on sheetfed presses with multiple offline finishing stages, are now increasingly suited to Labelexpo’s core technologies: inline flexo, rotary offset, and hybrid systems. These enable full production—from printing to creasing and sheeting—in a single pass. Digital printing is also gaining traction for short-run carton jobs.
Labelexpo has partnered with Brunton Business Publications, publishers of Folding Carton Industry magazine, to strengthen outreach. Dan Brunton will contribute technical insights and industry connections to support this strategic direction.
In 2023, over 25% of show visitors registered an interest in folding cartons, underscoring the relevance of this addition. Companies such as Edale (now under Canon), Actega, Tec-ni-Fold, and Rotatek are already confirmed to showcase folding carton-specific technologies at the 2025 edition.
Complementing the exhibition, the Label Academy will host a half-day Folding Carton Master Class aimed at label converters exploring diversification.
The event will also continue to emphasize common industry themes such as sustainability and automation, with the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) taking center stage.
This edition marks a ‘soft launch’ for folding cartons at Label expo, with full integration expected by 2027.