Labelexpo Europe 2025, held for the first time in Barcelona, closed as the largest edition ever in its 45-year history. With over 43,000 sqm of net exhibition space and 37,000 visitors, the show set new records in both scale and attendance, also achieving the highest level of international participation to date.
The numbers speak for themselves: +18% of top decision-makers, +49% increase in visitors from South America compared to 2023, and +28% from North America. Spain led the ranking of visiting countries, followed by Italy, Germany, France, and the UK.
“The move to Barcelona represents a key strategic milestone,” said Andy Thomas-Emans, Strategic Director at Labelexpo Global Series. “Breaking records in both floor space and attendance confirms the industry’s continued growth and the global appeal of the new location. The strong rise in international participation, especially from the Americas, highlights Labelexpo’s role as a truly global platform for the labels and package printing industry. We saw an industry embracing automation, sustainability, and the first steps in AI integration: signals of a vibrant sector that continues to evolve and innovate.”
Innovation and Technology Launches
Automation and sustainability dominated the scene, with major innovations in flexo, digital, and hybrid technologies. Cloud integration, AI-driven human-machine interfaces, and solutions to ease converters’ transition into digital printing were among the central themes.
“A dynamic, future-focused event,” commented James Steptoe, Technical Director at Troika Systems Ltd. “It was clear how companies are rethinking workflows, efficiency, and environmental responsibility. Staying adaptable to change will be crucial in embracing new technologies.”
Content, Community and Sustainability
The show introduced new community-focused features – from a dedicated app to the Gold Concierge Club, the Pulse conference arena, and even a community run through the streets of Barcelona. Industry experts (Labelexpo Ambassadors) delivered keynotes and Q&A sessions on flexible packaging, folding cartons, materials, sustainability, AI and automation.
Excellence was celebrated with the inaugural Labels & Labeling Global Awards, held on the opening night at Festa Barcelona.
Sustainability efforts were strengthened through the Better Stands program, encouraging the use of recyclable materials in booth construction, and an exclusive partnership with DMP for recycling matrix waste into usable materials.
“Our goal was to go beyond a traditional exhibition,” explained Andrew Galloway, Event Director. “We aimed to create an immersive, valuable experience for the community – not just a trade show, but a true industry gathering.”
The Future is LOUPE
During the event, a major rebrand was announced: starting in 2026, the Labelexpo Global Series will transition to the new name LOUPE, beginning with the Americas show in September.
“The decision to rebrand follows two years of consultation with partners and associations,” said Jade Grace, Managing Director of Labelexpo Global Series. “Over the last decade, digital and flexible packaging have become integral to the shows, and now folding cartons are poised for transformation with in-line, digital and hybrid technologies. Labels remain at the core of the LOUPE portfolio, but we will continue to support the broader evolution of the industry.”
The next European edition will take place from 5 to 8 October 2027 as LOUPE Europe 2027.
