Barcelona debut delivers biggest Labelexpo yet

The numbers are in: Labelexpo Europe 2025, held for the first time in Barcelona, closed as the biggest event in its 45-year history, setting records in both exhibitor space and attendance.

According to organisers, the exhibition covered more than 43,000 net sqm of exhibitor space, the largest to date, and welcomed over 37,000 attendees. The visitor profile reflected growing international reach, with an 18 per cent rise in top decision makers. Spain topped the list of visiting countries, alongside Italy, Germany, France and the United Kingdom. 

Andy Thomas-Emans, strategic director at Labelexpo Global Series, described the move to Barcelona as “a strategic milestone” and said the results “demonstrate the industry’s continued growth and the global appeal of the new location.” He noted the significant increase in international participation, especially from the Americas, as validation of the event’s global platform. Thomas-Emans added that automation, sustainability and the first signs of AI integration were key themes, signalling “a vibrant sector that continues to evolve and innovate.”

Technology highlights

On the show floor, automation and sustainability dominated across flexo, digital and hybrid press technologies. Exhibitors showcased Cloud network integration and early AI-driven machine and user interfaces, while new digital press launches were positioned to help converters transition into digital and enable suppliers to scale.

James Steptoe, technical director at Troika Systems, said the event was “incredibly dynamic and future focused.” He pointed to the scale of innovation in automation, digital printing and sustainability solutions, noting how quickly the industry is evolving. “Moving forward, staying adaptable to change is going to be critical,” he said.

Community and sustainability initiatives

The 2025 edition introduced new community features, including the Pulse conference arena, a Gold Concierge Club, app-based navigation, and a community industry run. Labelexpo Ambassadors brought expertise across folding cartons, flexible packaging, sustainability and automation, while the inaugural Labels & Labeling Global Awards celebrated industry achievement.

Sustainability initiatives were expanded with the Better Stands program, encouraging use of recyclable stand materials, and a partnership with DMP for recycling matrix waste into reusable products.

Event director Andrew Galloway said the vision for Labelexpo Europe 2025 “extended beyond just exhibition space” to deliver a more immersive experience. “These initiatives reflect our dedication to the industry we serve,” he said.

Rebrand to LOUPE

In Barcelona, organisers also announced a major rebrand of the Labelexpo Global Series, which will transition to the new identity LOUPE from 2026. The first event under the new name will be LOUPE Americas in September 2026.

Managing director Jade Grace said the decision followed two years of consultation with partners, associations and clients. She noted that in-line and digital flexible packaging had become an integral part of the shows, and the same trends are now emerging in folding cartons. “Labels remain at the very core of the LOUPE portfolio,” she said, “and we look forward to supporting the continued evolution of the industry.”

The next European edition will return from 5–8 October 2027 as LOUPE Europe 2027.

By the numbers – Labelexpo Europe 2025

• 43,000+ net sqm of exhibitor space – largest ever
• 37,000+ attendees – record-breaking visitor numbers
• 18% increase in top decision makers
• Top visiting countries: Spain, Italy, Germany, France, United Kingdom