The search is now on to find the label sector’s finest, as entries open for the 11th annual Label Industry Global Awards. This prestigious awards program celebrates excellence and achievement across the label printing industry and recognizes those individuals and companies at the top of their game. Being presented on 9 Septemberas part of Labelexpo Americas in Chicago, entries are welcomed from all converters/printers and label industry suppliers.

There are four categories in total. The esteemed R. Stanton Avery Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by Avery Dennison, recognizes the values and vision of Stan Avery and his pioneering efforts. Nominees must have worked in the label sector for a minimum of 25 years and significantly contributed to the promotion and growth of the industry. 2014’s winner will take their place alongside other leading captains of industry including Tomas Rink of Ritrama, RotoMetric’s Steve Lee, Helmut Schreiner, Nilpeter’s Lars Eriksen and FLEXcon’s Neil McDonough.

The Award for Sustainability, sponsored by Xeikon will go to the company that has introduced a specific product or process and maintained the most sustainable and environmentally acceptable working practices into its purchasing and manufacturing operations in 2013. Won last year by Avery Dennison for its bottle-to-bottle portfolio of pressure-sensitive labels which aided the effective recycling of PET bottles, the judges will also look for entrants who can demonstrate key materials, production and performance or consumer benefits.

This year, two separate Awards for Innovation will be presented; one for companies with 300 or more employees and one for companies with less than 300 employees. Sponsored by Flint Group Narrow Web, entries need to be a specific innovation introduced by a supplier/converter company during 2013 and can either be technology related such as a new press, substrate or ink or be a business practice like processes to improve sustainability or client experience.

Mike Fairley, chair of the judges commented: “The label printing sector is second to none in its innovation and creativity and this is a fantastic way to help raise the profile of those very hard-working individuals whose passion and commitment drives our whole industry. Every year the standard we see from the finalists astounds us and we look forward to hearing about all of the innovative ways label printers and industry suppliers are pushing their businesses forward again at this year’s awards. Good luck to all those who enter!”

Any company can enter these awards, subject to meeting the entry criteria. Entry is free and submissions need to be received by Friday 23 May 2014. Short-listed finalists will be announced in June. Entries can be made online and full details are available at www.labelawards.com.