FINAT Examines Rebounding Label Business BY GREG KISHBAUGH As the label industry gathers momentum after a turbulent economic cy- cle, business leaders across the European label value chain convened at the FINAT European Label Forum 2025 last May to chart a course for the future. In a rapidly evolving landscape shaped by global pressures,
FTA Launches Flexo Printer, Supplier Of The Year Awards The Flexographic Technical Association (FTA) has launched two new annual industry hon- ors: the FTA Printer of the Year Award and the FTA Supplier of the Year Award. These awards are designed to recognize outstand- ing achievement, leadership, and innovation across the flexographic printing industry and its supply chain. The FTA Printer of the Year and FTA Sup- plier of the Year Awards celebrate compa- nies that have demonstrated exceptional performance and meaningful contributions to the association and broader flexographic community during the most recent calendar year (January 1–December 31). Through these awards, FTA aims to spotlight organizations that exemplify technical excellence, collabo- ration, sustainability, give-back, and commit- ment to advancing the industry. The FTA Printer of the Year Award recog- nizes a member printing company that has demonstrated excellence in print quality, technical mastery, innovation, sustainability, and customer impact. Eligible printers are evaluated based on their leadership within the industry, participation in association pro- grams, and measurable contributions that el- evate flexographic printing standards. The FTA Supplier of the Year Award hon- ors a member supplier that has shown ex- ceptional commitment to supporting printers and advancing the flexographic industry. This award recognizes leadership in innovation, customer experience and reliability, sustain- ability initiatives, and strong partnerships that
shifting consumer attitudes, and tightening sustainability regulations, the Forum has become an platform for insight, collaboration, and stra- tegic direction. The following draws on perspectives from Jules Lejeune, FINAT; Corey Reardon, AWA; Linda Lichtmess, Euromonitor; and Paul Jenkins, ThePackHub. Their shared vision is to empower label printers and sup- pliers to thrive amid uncertainty by embracing innovation, collabora- tion, and adaptability. The European Label Business Landscape: Post-COVID Recovery and Structural Shifts In his opening report of the session, Jules Lejeune painted a data-driv- en picture of the European label industry’s journey through post-COVID volatility. While roll label stock demand was once a strong proxy for GDP growth, the correlation collapsed in 2020, giving rise to what he dubbed the “COVID spaghetti” era. Despite some recovery, overall volumes in 2024 remain at 2016 levels, but recovery varies across regions and coun- tries depending on differences in underlying economic fundamentals.
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December 29, 2025
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