62NOTICIAS I NEWS and represent an opportunity to improve the sector’s competitiveness. While acknowledging that their implementation is still uneven, he affirmed that there is a clear commitment to progress and ample room for development in the coming years. New Generation of Labels Another noteworthy presentation was on the new generation of labels, given by Jeroen van Bauwel, GIC Director of Xeikon. Jeroen van Bauwel explained that the function of labels has evolved significantly from their traditional role. He pointed out that previously, labels primarily aimed to identify the contents of the package, while today they perform multiple functions and require greater input from label converters. During his presentation, he emphasized that current labels not only identify the product but also act as a link between the brand and the consumer, containing additional product information, instructions for use, safety warnings, and content in different languages. He also indicated that they can support activities related to operations, marketing, and regulatory compliance. Jeroen van Bauwel stated that labels are becoming increasingly intelligent and that this evolution responds to the demands of brands and the need to offer greater traceability. As an example, he described the case of a Spanish manufacturer specializing in labels for wines and spirits that used variable data and invisible ink printing to help one of its clients identify the origin of products sold through unauthorized channels. The solution involved incorporating a variable number detectable by ultraviolet light, a measure that could be implemented at a very low additional cost thanks to the use of digital printing. He also pointed out that increasing regulatory requirements are forcing labels to include more and more information, and that brands are seeking to establish more direct contact with consumers through various communication tools. The label is evolving from a passive element to an active and intelligent point of contact within the product and its communication environment. Jeroen van Bauwel stated that the evolution of labels will continue to be driven by new technological and regulatory developments. Among these, he highlighted the future rollout of the Digital Product Passport (DPP), a European regulation that will require the inclusion of structured and accessible information about the origin, materials, sustainability, and life cycle of products. He explained that labels will play a fundamental role in connecting physical products with all this digital information. He also noted that smart labels will allow for the collection of information about user interaction with products. In this regard, he indicated that it will be possible to know aspects such as who scans a label or when the scan takes place, turning the label into a source of information. He emphasized that this evolution is no longer just a future prediction, but is beginning to become a reality in the market. Jeroen van Bauwel stressed that the development of smart labels requires an integrated ecosystem involving different technologies and processes. He explained that, in addition to digital printing technologies, suitable consumables are needed, and especially workflow systems capable of connecting data, printing processes, and management systems. He also highlighted the importance of integrating elements such as variable data, MIS and ERP systems, finishing processes, and inspection systems. The goal of this approach is to help printers produce labels and offer smart, connected solutions. New Regulatory Framework Next, Marco Carpi, Zone Business Director for Southern Europe Product Line Labels at Bobst, spoke about the new regulatory framework for the label industry from a perspective based on regulation, compliance, and sustainability. Carpi explained that the sector needed to move away from viewing it as a linear chain between manufacturer, processor, and brand owner, as it currently functions as an interconnected ecosystem where every decision affects all other stakeholders. Regulatory compliance no longer consists solely of verifying requirements, but rather implies shared responsibility and collective adaptation from all participants in the value chain. He also emphasized that regulation had become one of the main drivers of transformation in the sector. Marco Carpi’s presentation was structured around three pillars: food regulations, label design, and regulations concerning packaging and packaging waste. Regarding food regulations, he explained that Swiss regulaFabricantes de etiquetas y de maquinaria deben colaborar estrechamente para adaptarse al nuevo entorno normativo y desarrollar soluciones técnicas flexibles y sostenibles Label and machinery manufacturers must collaborate closely to adapt to the new regulatory environment and develop flexible and sustainable technical solutions
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