From May 14 to 17, 2026AIFEC held its XXVI Congress in Granada, which was attended by more than 250 participants.
During the General Assembly, held on the first day, the Group of Quality and Environmental Managers (GRCMA) presented three new sector-specific guides: the Regulatory Compliance Guide for the Labeling Sector, the Risk Management Guide for Food Contact Labels (Migration), and the Template for Preparing Declarations of Conformity. The Study on the Level of Automation and Artificial Intelligence in the Labeling Sector, prepared by AIFEC, was also presented.
“The future of the sector will depend largely on our collective ability to maintain strong, competitive companies that are prepared for the challenges ahead,” he said. Manuel Deza, Coreti's general manager, at the opening of the Congress, held on Friday.
Under the motto "Beyond the label: new opportunities for an evolving sector," the Congress addressed the main challenges and trends shaping the presence and future of our industry through sponsored presentations, workshops, and technical sessions designed to offer a practical and action-oriented perspective. "We will discuss artificial intelligence, automation, sustainability, and regulation, as well as the role of quality and excellence standards, including the QAIFEC seal, as differentiating factors in an increasingly competitive and demanding market. But we will also focus on people," explained [name/title missing]. Jose Carrasquer, president of AIFEC.
Following a round table discussion on the QAIFEC label, there were several presentations and workshops. The first conference was given by Marcos Navarro Alcaraz, founder of Antites, was about the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation in the labeling sector.
Marcos Navarro presented the current state of AI and automation implementation in the labeling and printing sector, based on the results of a study conducted among companies in the industry. He explained that the research shows the sector is still in an early stage of adopting these technologies, with limited use and a widespread lack of defined implementation strategies.
The study highlights a significant gap between the existing interest in artificial intelligence and its practical application. According to Navarro, this situation is primarily due to a lack of specialized training, technical knowledge, and qualified talent. He also emphasized that automation is more advanced in production processes than in administrative and management areas.
The CEO of Antites pointed out that the main opportunities for improvement lie in administrative automation, the integration of ERP systems with production processes, and the use of data analysis and prediction tools. In his opinion, the main obstacle to progress is not financial, but rather organizational and related to training, since most companies are willing to invest in these technologies.
During his presentation, Navarro explained the various technologies available for business automation. Among them, he highlighted robotic process automation (RPA), capable of performing repetitive tasks by following predefined instructions; APIs, which enable integration and communication between applications; and different types of artificial intelligence, such as predictive AI, natural language processing, and generative AI.
He also addressed the evolution toward artificial intelligence agents, systems capable of making decisions autonomously. However, he cautioned that these tools still require human oversight due to the possibility of errors, biases, or misinterpretations of information.
To illustrate the real-world applications of these technologies, he presented several use cases related to invoice management, order processing, document management, administrative notifications, and human resources processes. He explained that these solutions increase operational efficiency, reduce errors, streamline management, and foster business growth without a proportional increase in human resources.
In conclusion, Navarro argued that artificial intelligence and automation are already accessible tools for companies of all sizes 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 given by the new generation of labels, presented 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 packaging, whereas today they perform multiple functions and require greater input from label converters.
During her presentation, she 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. She 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 brand demands and the need for 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 consisted of 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 noted that the increase in regulatory requirements is forcing brands to include more and more information on labels and that they are seeking to establish a more direct contact with consumers through various communication tools.
The label is evolving from a passive element into 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 upcoming rollout of the Digital Product Passport (DPP), a European regulation that will require the inclusion of structured and accessible information on 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 pointed out 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 emphasized that the development of smart labels requires an integrated ecosystem involving various technologies and processes. He explained that, in addition to digital printing technologies, suitable consumables are necessary, 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.
He then intervened Marco CarpiCarpi, Zone Business Director for Southern Europe Product Line Labels at Bobst, spoke about the new regulatory framework for the labeling sector 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 is no longer just about verifying requirements; it now involves shared responsibility and collective adaptation from all participants in the value chain. He also emphasized that regulation has 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 regulations had been updated in April 2026 with stricter criteria on permitted substances in printing inks. He also noted that even more restrictive German regulations, specifically focused on inks used on food contact materials, would come into effect in January 2027.
Regarding label design, Carpi detailed the new requirements for legibility, font size, and printing on compostable materials for fruit labels. Marco Carpi explained that these changes reduced the available label space by 30% to 40%. In response, Bobst presented a multi-layer digital printing solution called Flexjet, capable of producing up to five-layer labels in a single pass.
Finally, he addressed the regulations on packaging and packaging waste, which require recyclable packaging, limits on hazardous substances, and greater traceability. Marco Carpi concluded that label and machinery manufacturers must collaborate closely to adapt to the new regulatory environment and develop flexible and sustainable technical solutions.
Then Fabrizio DecioThe CEO of Coaching House gave a motivational talk about people's potential. NextJosé Manuel Cansino[Name], from the San Telmo School of Seville, spoke about the economic outlook and prospects for Spain and the key sectors of label consumption. [Beginning of form]
José Manuel Cansino analyzed the economic context that will shape the evolution of the labeling sector, highlighting the influence of demographic, technological, and geopolitical factors on consumption and logistics. He explained that the relationship between population and consumption depends not only on the number of inhabitants but also on purchasing power, urban concentration, and the level of digitalization.
Cansino identified three major consumption models. The Asian model is characterized by a young population, larger households, and a strong presence of e-commerce. The European model is marked by an aging population and the growth of single-person households, while the North American model is characterized by high per-consumer spending and long logistical distances.
In the presentation, she emphasized the growing importance of traceability and rules of origin in a context of increasing commercial and regulatory complexity. Labels are evolving from an informational function to a certification and control tool, incorporating dynamic QR codes, digital certificates, and systems for verifying product origin.
José Manuel Cansino spoke about e-commerce trends, the increase in returns, the fragmentation of shipments, and the need for more efficient logistics. Finally, he addressed the risks stemming from supply chain tensions, the rising price of platinum and paper pulp, as well as the financial situation and competitiveness challenges facing the sector.
In the afternoon, there were several interactive workshops, and the day concluded with a gala dinner at Huerta del Sello, where the AIFEC 2026 Awards were presented. The social program included various activities, among them a private visit to the Alhambra.
The AIFEC Awards 2026
These awards recognize the work, creativity and innovation of companies in the sector, highlighting the most outstanding works submitted to the competition throughout the year.
In the beverage category, the first prize went to "MUWI EL RAYO OLARRA," a product submitted by RIOJADHESIVOS. The second prize was awarded to "Enaya," by ETYGRAF; and the third prize went to "La Lía Parda," by ETILISA.
In the food category, the Best Work Award went to "El Trovador," from the company OVELAR. The same company also won another award that evening, receiving the Best Work Award in the Other category for "PHB TOTAL CARE."
Innovation also had its own space: the Best Work in R&D Innovations Award went to «CLINICAL TOUCH LABEL», by CINTA PLAST.
In the industry, home, perfumery and cosmetics category, the first prize went to "TECNIUM", a work presented by ETIQUETAS ANVER, while the second prize went to "DREFT", by LAPPÍ INDUSTRIAS GRÁFICAS.
The highlight of the evening was the Audience Award for Best Work of the Year 2026, voted directly by the congressmen: "MONMULAN", by CORETI, won the most popular award of the night, confirming the talent and creative ability of its authors.
