An in-depth conversation with Andrew Galloway and Pradeep Saroha
The global exhibition landscape for labels and packaging is entering a transformative phase. The widely recognised Labelexpo brand is evolving into LOUPE—a move that reflects the changing dynamics of the industry.
In India, this transition takes shape as LOUPE India, signalling not just a rebranding but a strategic expansion beyond labels into outer packaging and embellishment.
In this exclusive interaction, Andrew Galloway shares insights into the rationale behind the rebrand, the evolving scope of the exhibition, and what the industry can expect from the 2026 edition.
⭐ Key Highlights
- Global rebranding from Labelexpo to LOUPE
- Expanded focus: Labels + Outer Packaging + Embellishment
- Continued emphasis on narrow-web and mid-web technologies
- Strong push into Tier 3 & Tier 4 markets
- Growth driven by sustainability, automation, and digitalisation
- Larger 2026 edition with expanded exhibition space
💬 “The rebrand reflects the reality of today’s converters, who operate across multiple packaging formats using similar technologies.”
— Andrew Galloway
🔹 From Labelexpo to LOUPE: A Strategic Evolution
The transition from Labelexpo to LOUPE is rooted in the transformation of the industry itself.
Originally launched in the early 1980s, Labelexpo focused exclusively on self-adhesive labels. However, advancements in narrow-web technologies have enabled converters to diversify into flexible packaging, folding cartons, shrink sleeves, and decorative embellishments.
While the exhibition evolved, the brand name continued to suggest a narrower scope.
LOUPE—Labels and Outer Packaging Embellishment—better represents this expanded reality. It retains the core focus on labels while embracing the broader capabilities of modern converters.
🔹 Focus Remains on Narrow-Web Innovation
Despite the broader positioning, the exhibition’s core remains unchanged.
LOUPE continues to focus on narrow-web and mid-web technologies rather than competing with wide-web gravure or offset platforms.
Modern presses now offer higher speeds, wider widths, hybrid capabilities, and advanced finishing—enabling converters to enter adjacent markets without major shifts in infrastructure.
💬 “It’s not a shift away from labels—it’s an expansion of what label converters can achieve.”
🔹 A Global Repositioning
The transition to LOUPE is not limited to India—it is a global initiative.
All nine exhibitions previously under the Labelexpo brand are being unified under LOUPE, including LOUPE Americas and LOUPE India.
The goal is to create a consistent global identity while maintaining regional relevance.
🔹 LOUPE India 2026: Expanding Reach
The 2026 edition marks a significant step forward, not only in scale but also in outreach.
While previous editions focused on established hubs, the upcoming show aims to engage businesses in Tier 3 and Tier 4 cities.
With the rise of e-commerce, smaller businesses now have national reach—but often lack access to advanced packaging solutions. LOUPE India aims to bridge this gap through:
- Regional roadshows
- Industry partnerships
- Direct engagement initiatives
💬 “We are taking the exhibition beyond metros to reach emerging entrepreneurs across India.”
– Pradeep Saroha
🔹 Strength of Informa Markets
Being part of Informa Markets significantly enhances the exhibition’s reach and impact.
With access to extensive global databases, the platform can attract a wider and more targeted audience. This benefits both exhibitors and visitors by improving lead quality and expanding exposure to new technologies.
🔹 Key Industry Trends to Watch
Insights from global exhibitions such as Labelexpo Europe highlight several trends that will shape LOUPE India 2026:
- Sustainability and eco-friendly materials
- Automation to tackle workforce challenges
- Faster turnaround and reduced waste
- Digitalisation and workflow integration
- Digital embellishment and hybrid printing
These trends are increasingly relevant for the Indian market, especially in short-run and value-added applications.
🔹 Bigger Show, Stronger Technology Presence
The 2026 edition will expand across Halls 9, 10, 11, and 12, adding an additional hall compared to the previous show.
Visitors can expect:
- More live machinery demonstrations
- Larger island booths
- Increased participation from digital and hybrid solution providers
🔹 International Participation
While the show remains India-focused, international participation continues to be strong.
Global companies such as Avery Dennison and LEONHARD KURZ will participate through their Indian operations.
India’s rapid growth makes it a key market for global technology providers.
🔹 Integrated Exhibition Experience
LOUPE India will maintain an integrated layout rather than segmenting technologies.
This reflects the modern converter’s reality—operating across labels, flexible packaging, and folding cartons using similar equipment.
🔹 Knowledge & Content Platforms
Recognising the need for knowledge-sharing, the organisers are exploring:
- Industry panels
- Thought leadership sessions
- Discussions on sustainability and digital transformation
Trade exhibitions today are not just about transactions—they are also about learning and strategic insights.
💬 “Visitors today expect not just machines, but knowledge, insight, and direction.”
🔹 Future Outlook
India’s packaging industry continues to grow, driven by FMCG demand and e-commerce expansion.
Over the next 3–5 years, LOUPE India is expected to:
- Expand in scale and exhibitor base
- Attract new technology providers
- Strengthen its position as India’s leading narrow-web platform
🟦 Conclusion
The transition to LOUPE represents evolution—not departure.
Labels remain at the core, but outer packaging and embellishment now share the spotlight, reflecting a broader industry landscape.
As the industry prepares for 2026, LOUPE India stands as a platform that connects innovation, growth, and opportunity—bringing the entire ecosystem together under one roof.
