LOUPE Americas (formerly Labelexpo Americas) - an insider’s journey spanning 25 years

The Americas iteration will return to Chicago from 15 – 17 September at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Rosemont. Here, Tasha Ventimiglia, LOUPE’s Group Director, Americas, brings us on a 25-year journey from when she first stepped into an event to her views on what the future holds. 

Late 80s, the early days 

The origins of LOUPE Americas trace back to 1989, when the first Labelexpo Americas—then called Labelexpo USA—was launched in Rosemont. With around 60 exhibitors occupying a section of Hall A, the event was born out of the label sector’s need for a dedicated platform, as it felt overshadowed by general printing shows of the time. This marked the beginning of the “Labelexpo” family, a specialized event that has since grown into a cornerstone of the label and packaging industry.

My journey began in June 2001. Even though I had been working behind the scenes on our event for over a year, to be completely honest, I had no idea what the event really was until I walked onto our show floor for the first time in 2002. I vividly remember being completely blown away by the scale and innovation shown at the event, and thinking “OK, now I get it – this industry is huge!” It was eye-opening to see the complexity behind printing a label. The 2002 event buzzed with discussions about the beginnings of e-commerce, in-mold technology, advancements in digital printing, and the ability to print on multiple substrates. It was a stunning introduction to an industry that thrives on innovation.

The team making it big today 

Fast forward to today, and the event has evolved significantly. The equipment is faster, more efficient, and of higher quality. Sustainability has become a priority, and automation and smart technologies are now integral to suppliers’ offerings. The industry’s rapid changes are driven by brand-level demands, such as the need for sustainability, SKU proliferation, and the importance of brands differentiating from each other through advancements in embellishment technology. The event has also expanded its global reach over the years, bolstered by initiatives such as the launch of our Label Summits, which debuted in Mexico City in 2004 and have since extended across South America.

What makes LOUPE Americas extraordinary is the dedicated team behind the scenes. With many team members having over 15 years of experience and newer additions bringing fresh energy and valuable contributions, we’ve cultivated a close-knit, family-like environment.

Our operations team works tirelessly behind the scenes to make certain that our events run smoothly. They are the first to arrive and the last to leave at our events, ensuring every detail is perfect. Our sales team plays a crucial role in understanding clients’ needs and helping them grow their businesses. The marketing team ensures our messaging connects effectively with all attendee personas, while actively managing our websites, social media campaigns, and partnerships. Meanwhile, the education team curates cutting-edge content and trends, transforming the event into a premier hub for learning and industry growth. The Labels & Labeling team is our voice of the industry. Our editors are constantly traveling to industry events and meeting with our converter and suppliers to understand what’s trending and where the future is heading. 

This year, LOUPE Americas is not just about showcasing the latest in labels, flexible packaging (specifically shrink and pouches), and short run, in-line folding cartons; it’s about fostering community and connection. We’re introducing initiatives like a fun run/walk, relevant educational sessions, and networking opportunities to bring like-minded industry professionals together. Our goal is to make LOUPE a place where the industry gathers to learn, connect, and grow every two years.

Looking to the future 

Reflecting on my 25-year journey, I feel incredibly fortunate to have found this industry and job. The welcoming nature of the community has allowed me to build lifelong friendships, learn invaluable lessons about business and relationships, and grow both personally and professionally.

I’m particularly inspired by the future of the industry. The passionate and intelligent leaders joining the field, the bright college students eager to make their mark, and the increasing presence of women in leadership roles are all signs of a promising future. I’m excited to see what’s next for LOUPE Americas and the industry.

As LOUPE Americas continues to grow, I can’t wait to witness the innovations, connections, and transformations that lie ahead. This event is more than a trade show—it’s a celebration of an industry that thrives on creativity, collaboration, and progress. Here’s to the future of LOUPE Americas and the label and packaging industry!