War and supply chain pressures have force Labelexpo organisers to postpone the Europe show until next year.
The Labelexpo Europe event will now take place from September 11-14, 2023 in Brussels.
Labelexpo Global Series organiser Tarsus Group cites significant supply chain pressures the European label industry is currently experiencing. In addition, the “fast-evolving situation in Ukraine” influenced the decision.
Close consultation with exhibitors, associations and the wider industry, reveealed many directly impacted by the shortage of components and materials. These shortages, triggered by the pandemic, have escalated over recent months. Consequently, long lead times now disrupt the supply chain in Europe.
With the event set to take place in just under two months’ time, the lack of forward visibility led the event team to reschedule. Lisa Milburn, Labelexpo managing director, says, “Firstly, I’d like to acknowledge the support we have had from the industry. Many have committed to Labelexpo Europe in spite of the issues they are currently dealing with. We know the decision to reschedule the show will be as disappointing for them as it is for us.
“This has been a very difficult decision for us to make, we have worked tirelessly to overcome the supply chain issues and produce the show. The industry needs Labelexpo, especially in light of the challenges of the past two years. Unfortunately these issues have proven to be insurmountable at this stage. As a result, we feel that rescheduling is the responsible decision to make.”
Finat agrees
Jules Lejeune, managing director, Finat, says, “Finat fully understands and supports the decision that has been taken. Given the existing shortages of chips and components, the current shortages of paper and other consumables to produce labels, and now the major geopolitical uncertainties caused by the situation in Ukraine, there are simply too many hurdles to overcome.
“Finat remains a proud supporter of the world’s leading trade exhibition for the label and package printing industry. We admire our longstanding partner Labelexpo for taking this extremely difficult decision, and for putting the interests of the industry first.”
