5 Key Takeaways from Labelexpo

Rotoflex highlighted its off-line digital converting solution.

The MGI JetVarnish 3D Web showcased its digital foiling and embossing capabilities.

AB Graphic’s Digicon series provided one example of digital converting technology at Labelexpo.

1. Digital Finishing to the Forefront

Digital printing has been a major topic in recent years, but Labelexpo Americas featured more digital finishing, converting and embellishing capabilities than in previous editions. As digital printing has become highly regarded for its ability to print short, variable runs of packaging, one of the top challenges in maintaining these production advantages has been finding the right finishing process tailored to these runs. Digital finishing, converting and embellishment systems will help solve this problem.

Bobst demonstrated its Digital Flexo Process, which provides a highly-automated changeover process.

The Nilpeter FA was among the highly-automated flexo presses at Labelexpo Americas.

2. All About Automation

From flexo presses to color control and changeovers, automation is impacting the label industry at just about every level. Labelexpo Americas 2018 demonstrated some of the latest advancements in flexography that have made presses more user-friendly, faster, and able to make the changeover process more intuitive.

The Precision Label Series inkjet press on display in the Konica Minolta booth showcased its small footprint.

The Gallus Smartfire made its U.S. debut, and was just one example of how digital label printing is becoming more affordable.

3. A Digital Solution for Everyone

The variety of digital press solutions on display at Labelexpo Americas demonstrated that the right press is out there for any company’s specific needs. From affordable, entry-level digital presses to high-tech hybrids, digital printing has become an accessible technology for everyone.

After highlighting its Digital Series hybrid press at Labelexpo Americas 2016, Mark Andy featured the new Digital Series HD at this year's event.

The Nilpeter PANORAMA Hybrid showcased its digital, flexo and converting capabilities.

The OMET XJet Powered by Durst was one of many hybrid inkjet/flexo solutions on display.

4. Hybrid’s Continued Emergence

Hybrid label presses that incorporated digital and conventional capabilities were a major topic at Labelexpo Americas 2016. Two years later and these solutions continue to evolve, providing the best of both worlds to label printers. With each system offering its own unique features and configurability, label printers seeking to enter the hybrid printing world have plenty of options to choose from.

Digital printing of folding cartons and lightweight corrugated on display at the Konica Minolta booth.

The Mark Andy P7E (pictured) and P9E flexo presses can produce multiple label and packaging applications.

5. More than Just Labels

As convergence continues to impact the printing industry, package printers have sought ways to expand their product offerings. This was evident at Labelexpo Americas with in-line flexo presses able to print flexible packaging and even a digital press designed for folding cartons and light-weight corrugated.