Recognition and Excellence: Awards in Sector Associations

In the world of package printing and labeling, competitions organized by sector associations such as ECMA, Pro Carton (both folding carton), EFTA-Benelux (flexo package printing), and FINAT (labels) are a highlight. These events not only reward innovation but also serve as a tribute to excellence within the packaging industry. They are a recognition of the work and a showcase of what the industry as a whole has to offer in terms of excellent products and solutions to its customers. But what actually happens before the glorious moment when the winner steps onto the stage to receive the award? A glimpse into the world of these extraordinary projects.

The importance of product competitions

Whether it's the FINAT Label Competition, the EFTA Benelux Flexo Awards, or the European Carton Excellence Award (ECEA) from ECMA and Pro Carton, these award sessions are crucial for various industries because they:
1- Emphasize quality in the packaging industry,
2- Stimulate innovation and creativity in printing techniques,
3- Spotlight the unique achievements of participants, and
4- Provide an excellent opportunity for the winner, the winning company, and the sector association as a whole to approach the media with positive news.

Various categories

All competitions are divided into different categories, such as marketing, techniques used, use of new and/or recycled materials, sustainability, public vote, and innovation. An expert jury evaluates the submissions over several days, sometimes numbering more than a hundred. The winning design in each category is displayed during the annual congress, giving the winners the recognition they deserve.

Project Steps

The award competitions are annual or biennial recurring projects that take several months. It is a continuous quest for excellence and progress in the packaging industry. Each cycle begins with the announcement and a (repeated) call to companies and employees to submit the best designs. At Lejeune, all designs are collected, registered, categorized, and assigned a code to keep the origin of the submissions unknown to the jury. Subsequently, the entries (sometimes over several days) are exposed to evaluation by a panel of seasoned experts who convene at the Lejeune office. This process, sometimes accompanied by lively discussions and praise for the exceptional quality of the submissions, makes it a challenge for the jury to choose the winner.

Benefits for Companies

Participating in these competitions means more than just a chance to win for companies. It offers an opportunity to push boundaries, raise technological and quality standards, and establish a presence in the industry. It encourages the industry to excel and is seen as a driving force behind technological advancements in the world of labeling and packaging.

By using the latest printing techniques or finding other groundbreaking solutions in packaging, end products are elevated to a higher level. Excellently designed and/or produced packaging not only means a victory for the end-user who sees their products recognized and purchased more easily and quickly by consumers, but also for the team responsible for the concept, design, development, and printing and processing of the respective packaging.

Behind-the-Scenes

Lejeune Association Management handles the project management for all these competitions. They serve as the neutral point of contact for participants, ensure careful registration and coding of entries, act as the contact for the expert jury, and oversee the teams responsible for planning, promotion, and evaluation. The team also organizes the annual congress or special meeting where the awards are presented to the winners.

Budget

Organizing an awards project incurs costs. These projects are funded by participants through registration fees and through sponsor packages for suppliers during events where the awards are presented. The budget covers operational and organizational costs, prizes for winners, and various promotion activities and entertainment.

In Conclusion

These competitions are not just about celebrating winners but they are a crucial driving force behind progress in the world of labeling and packaging. They challenge companies to push boundaries, embrace innovation, and distinguish themselves in a competitive industry.

Barbara Ginter, Celesta Maas, and Jakovina van Haeringen