Global training provider for the label and package printing industry, the Label Academy, is to start offering its master classes to an international audience online outside of Labelexpo shows for the very first time. This is in response to the increased appetite for digital learning.

The Label Academy’s in-depth and expert-led master classes in English have proved extremely popular around the world at Labelexpo trade shows over the last few years, covering a wide range of key topics in the label and package printing industry. These have included: shrink sleeves; inks, coatings and varnishes; and flexible packaging.

Building on this success, the first international “virtual” master class will cover Digital Printing Technology, and be spread over two two-hour parts, on Tuesday 23 and 30 June. It will be presented by Labelexpo strategic director, Andy Thomas-Emans, who will be joined by expert guest speakers from AB Graphic, Avery Dennison, Cerm, Domino, Durst, HP, UPM Raflatac and Xeikon.

Attendees will gain a unique insight into the technologies, materials, finishing and embellishments that could transform a converter’s product offering, and learn how to maximize operational workflow. Part 1 will cover digital markets, future predictions and compare the different technologies and processes such as liquid/dry toner, hybrid and inkjet. Part 2 will look at pre-press systems and strategies, the importance of workflow automation, substrate selection and print quality, plus digital print finishing.

Thomas-Emans said: “In today’s competitive label and package printing industry, it is a tremendously exciting development and a natural step for us to harness the power of technology and start offering our international Label Academy master classes online from June. Industry feedback has shown that the appetite for digital learning just keeps on growing.

“Most importantly, it is vital that the global industry stays connected during these challenging times, and on-the-job learning will be a key part of that. Now with so many people becoming full time home workers, we want to do everything we can to support the industry and help it get back on track in the coming months as we move into the post coronavirus/COVID-19 recovery phase. Education and knowledge will be crucial to that process.”

Christian Menegon, global business development manager, HP, said: “In these strange times, where the whole industry is affected and needs to be thought differently, where priorities have changed, where the adapted way of living gives us different challenges but also opportunities, a proper communication is getting more important than ever. Technologies allow us to deliver content in a virtual mode. This is today’s best way to maintain knowledge and contact with our industry. Digital printing specificities, interests and benefits are part of what one needs to remain updated on, as it is likely to play a very active role post COVID-19 times. Therefore, I welcome the Label Academy’s latest educational opportunity, and look forward to taking part in its very first virtual master class.”

Martin Leitner, product manager Labels & Package Printing, Durst Group, added: “Education is important and the base for right decisions for a successful future. The new format allows worldwide participation, information delivered to the point and provides the best overview on the successful world of digital printing. I am looking forward to sharing my experience and to be part of this first virtual master class.”

The virtual master class costs 60 USD per session. For more information and booking, visit www.label-academy.com/master-classes-0.