Whereas labelexpo Europe adopts the name Loupe to reflect the sector's expansion into other packaging applications , Jules Lejeune shares his analysis of the evolution of narrow-web printing and market changes. The Managing Director of the European association of label converters and their suppliers, Finat, describes a sector where self-adhesive labels remain central, but where narrow-web technologies are gradually extending to other packaging applications.
In recent years, the multiplication of product references and the reduction in volumes per series have changed the way label production is organized," he explains. This evolution reinforces the importance of flexibility, speed and the ability to manage more frequent changes.
Demand for labels varies according to use
According to Radar Finat data, European consumption of self-adhesive label materials is set to grow by around 2% in 2025. This is broadly in line with economic growth. The market appears more stable as we approach 2026, but growth remains moderate and varies according to application, according to the director.
Jules Lejeune notes that demand is not following the same dynamic in all segments. Variable data printing activities linked to logistics and distribution are proving structurally stronger. Conversely, main product labeling is more affected in times of cautious consumption.
Narrow web widths go beyond the label market
Finat is also observing a more structural evolution in the sector. Historically focused on self-adhesive labels, the narrow-web label industry is now sharing its technologies with other packaging segments.
Sleeves, in-mold labeling and certain flexible packaging applications are based on similar processes. Printing, finishing, substrates and digital workflows mobilize similar skills. And this technological convergence opens up new possibilities for converters.
Regulatory pressure accelerates circularity
Environmental requirements are another factor driving change. In Europe, changes in packaging regulations are raising expectations in terms of recyclability and traceability.
According to Jules Lejeune, industry players must now provide technical proof of the compatibility of their solutions with recycling systems. Label design must take into account the infrastructure for collecting, sorting and processing materials.
Finat is also involved in a number of industry initiatives, including the CELAB-Europe consortium dedicated to the recycling of self-adhesive labels.
Automation and data structure production
The transformation of the sector also involves the digitization of production workflows. The multiplication of product references and the reduction in print runs are reinforcing the importance of automation and process control. Automated inspection, color and data management are key to maintaining productivity.
This digitalization, and increasingly artificial intelligence, appear to be levers of productivity in a context of shorter print runs and an ever-increasing number of references.
For Finat, all these developments reflect a gradual transformation of the label industry. Narrow-web technologies remain at the heart of the market, but their scope of application and the industrial requirements that accompany them continue to expand.
