Writing in this column back in August, I hoped for a successful Labelexpo Europe to come the following month. No problem - this year's show in Brussels was both the biggest and the busiest in the event's history. There were more exhibitors and more visitors than ever before, and the aisles and stands were positively buzzing with activity.
The continuing success of Labelexpo, both in Europe and around the globe, reflects the growth and increasing development of the narrow web sector - certainly one of the most innovative in our industry today. Among the indicators to be seen at this year's event were the large number of offset machines on show, also hybrid and combination systems - evidence of the increasing trend to offer the greatest possible degree of flexibility on a single machine or line.
Our show report in this issue summarises as many of the more interesting exhibits as we could pack in, but be sure to keep checking our website for much more from the Brussels bonanza.
Turning to the never ending saga of company mergers and acquisitions, of special note this time around is the recent confirmation that Bobst has moved to acquire Fischer & Krecke. If the deal goes through, the German wide web flexo press specialist will be a significant addition to the Swiss group's already impressive portfolio. In similar fashion to Heidelberg, it is continuing to reinforce its position as one of the dominant groups in the printing and converting equipment supply industry.
Back to shows again - they just keep on coming - our next focus will be on the K exhibition, which opens in Düsseldorf on October 24.
Film production and conversion is one of the cornerstones of our industry - easy to take for granted, but an essential element in the day to day business of many companies. The ever increasing pressures of environmental concerns, the need to conserve vital resources and energy, mean that both equipment suppliers and the end users must strive for maximum efficiency at every opportunity.
Aside from any other considerations, these eco imperatives will make developments on display at the K show 'must know' material for all concerned. Converting Today will be on the spot to learn the latest from the exhibitors and report back to you in our November issue.
Mike Taylor
Editor
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