Fall is a busy time of year for packaging and label manufacturers. Trade shows fill the calendar, and not every one makes the list.
For this episode of Parlor Talks, Packaging Impressions took to the show floor at two major events in September: LOUPE Americas 2026 in Rosemont, IL, and PRINTING United Expo 2026 in Las Vegas. During both conventions, Senior Content Editor Kalie VanDewater spoke with exhibitors to get their insights on where the industry stands and what lies in its future. Those insights are highlighted in this episode.
To learn more about what went on at both events check out our coverage here:
0:00 Introduction
0:58 The Industry Reacts to Uncertainty
4:16 Digital Versus Conventional Versus Hybrid
9:39 The Labor Challenge
12:14 The Role of Automation and AI
17:22 A Need for Speed
18:43 Going Green
21:49 "Shiny and Bumpy"
23:34 Closing Remarks






