64 Issue 361 - July | August 2026 email: editor@printmonthly.co.uk ▲Andy Pike, EMEA industrial marketing lead at HP, says the real acceleration in the sector is happening in digital label production no longer solely about volume,” Gregory says, adding: “There is strong demand for prototype work, short-run packaging labels, product stickers, window decals, and promotional applications where creativity, flexibility, and turnaround times are key considerations. This then enters the sweet spot for integrated print and cut technology. “Rather than competing directly in commodity label production, many print businesses are successfully targeting applications where responsiveness and creativity matter most. The ability to produce short runs, samples, one-offs, limited editions, or multi-version campaigns quickly can become a real advantage. “For existing sign and graphics providers, labels can also complement wider customer projects, allowing them to offer more complete branding packages from a single production platform.” Empowering Customers The final manufacturer to weigh in is HP. Andy Pike, EMEA industrial marketing lead at HP, says while overall industry growth remains steady at mid-single digits, the real acceleration is happening in digital label production, where brands increasingly require shorter runs, faster turnaround, and greater customisation. “Digital label printing is emerging as the fastest-growing segment, enabling converters to unlock new applications, improve sustainability, and respond to rapidly changing consumer and market needs,” Pike explains, adding: “HP Indigo stands at the forefront of this transformation, empowering customers to capture high-value growth opportunities, and drive profitable expansion in an evolving labels and packaging landscape.” In terms of the work on offer, Pike says while food and beverage labels are one significant foundation, the fastest-growing segment right now is flexible packaging, pushed by brands needing agility, shorter product lifecycles, and cleaner sustainability numbers. Going further, he says pharma labels, premium cosmetics, and craft products are attracting interest as well, but really it is “anywhere short runs, variable data, and brand protection carry weight”. “Smart labels with QR, NFC, and AR integration are generating new demand, giving brands tools for authentication and consumer engagement they didn’t have before,” he adds. As to how HP can help, Pike picks out the HP Indigo V12, its flagship machine in this area and the manufacturer’s first press that uses LEPx technology. Printing at 120 metres per minute on narrow web, Pike says the machine is capable of replacing multiple flexo lines and the overhead that goes with them. For converters who need broader application range, he recommends the HP Indigo 6K+, which runs a new SmartControlSystem with AI-powered automation, built around demand for multiple SKUs and faster turnarounds. Meanwhile, for flexible packaging, he says the HP Indigo 200K bridges label and packaging workflows, with an optional slitter for converters expanding into that space. “We recently hit 3,000 global HP Indigo installations for labels and packaging at Labelexpo Europe 2025, which gives a sense of the platform’s reach,” he adds. Label printing continues to offer print businesses a valuable route to growth, with demand being driven by shorter runs, personalisation, and smarter packaging. For companies looking to diversify, improve margins, and future-proof their offering, labels remain one of the most compelling opportunities in the market. ▼Hybrid Services picked out the Mimaki CJV330160 for use in higher production environments Digital labelling is growing at an average rate of 10.8% per year in volume according to Konica Minolta 10.8% LABEL PRINTING | ROB FLETCHER
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