Largest-ever Labelexpo

Labelexpo Europe 2009 defied the recent economic downturn. Not only was there an increase in exhibitor numbers and exhibition space, but visitor numbers were almost the same as the previous show, resulting in a large number of machinery sales.

24,169 visitors from 125 countries (the widest geographic distribution ever) attended this year’s show, held in September. Despite the total number being slightly lower than the previous show (by 2 percent), many exhibitors reported more visitors and more sales on their stands. Even before the show had finished, over 80 percent of exhibition space had already been booked for Labelexpo Europe 2011.

Extra hall attracts large crowds

Due to an increase in exhibitors (544 compared to 511 in 2007), this year Labelexpo Europe had to expand into a sixth hall, which featured many of the latest digital solutions that the label industry has to offer. Digital press manufacturers have also reported a number of machinery sales already confirmed, with leads from the show already bringing in more business in the immediate days after the exhibition. A major development for Labelexpo Europe 2009 was the successful Digital Label Experience feature area in this new hall. This was an extensive seminar program featuring key players in the industry.

Label Industry Global Awards

Almost 500 people attended the gala dinner and award ceremony at the Albert Hall in Brussels on the first night of the show. The following winners were announced:
• R. Stanton Avery Lifetime Achievement Award: Michael Fairley
• Label Industry Award for Continuous Innovation: EskoArtwork
• Label Industry Award for New Innovation: EFI Jetrion
• European Converter of the Year Award: Rako Group
• Green Award: GEW

Roger Pellow, Labelexpo managing director, said: “Labelexpo Europe 2009 was a truly incredible show given the current global economic crisis; it showed how resilient this wonderful industry is. There was a huge amount of exciting new products that the manufacturers had to offer. Digital has now become a reality and it was also interesting to see how established companies are embracing these new technologies.

“I would like to thank everyone involved with Labelexpo Europe. The visitors, exhibitors, media and associations have all contributed to make this one of the most successful events that we have ever had.”