Key Takeaways from the FINAT European Label Forum 2025 in Amsterdam

As the General Manager of Lejeune and Managing Director of the industry association FINAT, Jules proudly looks back on a successful European Label Forum 2025 (ELF25) in Amsterdam. Three days filled with expert insights, interactive panels, and bold keynotes delivered valuable lessons for the label industry. Here are the main takeaways

Europe must invest in strategic autonomy

The geopolitical landscape demands that Europe invest more heavily in defence, innovation, and energy to remain competitive in a rapidly changing global order. For the label industry, this means looking ahead, staying agile, and making smart investments.

An industry in transition

While the label market shows signs of recovery, progress is uneven across regions. Sustainability, innovation, and customer focus remain critical strategic pillars. Though 2030 may seem distant, agility and collaboration are already essential to prepare for it.

Shifting Consumer expectations

Consumers are moving away from short-term savings and increasingly seeking long-term value. Health, clarity, and affordability are key drivers in their choices. Interestingly, consumer adoption of AI remains cautious, even as businesses integrate it more deeply into their processes.

Design for Recyclability: A license to operate

The new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) demands a radical rethink. Labels must not hinder recyclability, making material choices, adhesive selection, and clear communication essential. Meeting these standards is no longer optional — it’s a baseline requirement.

Technology as a catalyst

AI, edge computing, and robotics are reshaping manufacturing. Flexible packaging offers strong growth opportunities for narrow web printers, but it also demands new skills and partnerships. Technology is not an end goal, but a powerful enabler of innovation.

Leadership and creativity are essential

Creative leadership is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. Fostering a culture of curiosity, small experiments, and resilience is key to unlocking innovation. The European Label Forum demonstrated that the strength of a community lies in shared insights and a collective commitment to progress.

Ten years of European Label Forum: A Milestone

Jules Lejeune: “It was special to gather in Amsterdam exactly ten years after the relaunch of the annual FINAT congress as ‘European Label Forum’ in 2015. Since then, the forum has become the meeting point for decision-makers and visionaries in the label and packaging industry. Despite market consolidation, engagement remains high: fewer companies, but steady or even rising attendance — a sign of genuine growth.

I want to thank to all speakers, sponsors, volunteers, FINAT staff, and everyone involved in shaping this milestone edition. Together, we are building the future of the sector.”

Role Lejeune Association Management

Lejeune plays a leading and facilitating role for FINAT and its members. The development of strategic projects and member programmes, with both an advisory and executive function—including conferences—is one of Lejeune's core competencies. For more information about the FINAT European Label Forum 2025 and the full programme, visit the FINAT website.

Lejeune Association Management FINAT team (from left to right): Jakovina van Haeringen, Elke Verbaarschot, Jules Lejeune, Pablo Englebienne, Karla Pastor en Stephanie Feith.