At Interpack 2026, label papers entered many of the same discussions shaping the wider packaging market: recyclability, material reduction, production efficiency and supply reliability. Labels represent a smaller part of the pack, but they influence several critical stages of the value chain. They need to support regulatory and sustainability requirements, carry more information, protect brand presentation and run reliably through printing, converting and application.
At the Sappi booth, Parade Label wet glue label papers showed how established label materials can support these demands across food and beverage applications. The range is designed for high print quality, consistent runnability, strong shelf impact and efficient processing, including in returnable systems where dependable wash-off performance is essential.
Paper-based labels are becoming more functional
One topic discussed at Interpack was the growing interest in paper-based label constructions that combine functionality with improved end-of-life performance. Companies are exploring paper-based labels with functional film lamination that can support recyclability and, depending on the full construction and certification route, compostability. The aim is to retain the sustainability and consumer appeal of paper while adding only the performance or resistance properties required for the application.
Sappi’s paper-based portfolio also supports a wider design approach. Parade Label works alongside liners, paperboards and barrier papers, giving converters and brand owners more options to design around a product brand, while keeping a consistent identity across the offerings.
Designed to remove risk from production
A label may be small, but production risk often starts with small variables. Curling, poor lay-flat behaviour or uneven glue absorption can interrupt feeding, affect application accuracy, create rejects and force extra machine adjustments.
Parade Label WS and Parade Label Pro are designed to help reduce those variables. Balanced stiffness, controlled absorbency and reliable lay-flat properties support clean feeding, consistent adhesive acceptance and accurate application in demanding production environments.
That is the practical value behind the range. A good label paper does more than look right on the finished pack. It helps reduce avoidable uncertainty before the pack reaches the shelf.
Print quality now carries more responsibility
Interpack discussions also returned to the amount of information labels are expected to carry. Regulatory text, recycling guidance, product details, barcodes and brand messaging all compete for limited space.
That puts more pressure on the print surface. A smooth, consistent paper supports clear graphics, readable text and reliable barcodes across flexo, offset and gravure printing. For brand owners, print quality links shelf presence with compliance and consumer understanding.
The same requirement applies across food and beverage formats, whether the label is used on glass, cans or plastic bottles, and whether the container is returnable or not.
Reliable supply is part of the label decision
Supply reliability was also part of the discussions at Interpack. Geopolitical instability, including disruption linked to the Middle East, has made predictable delivery a more visible concern for packaging teams. Converters and brand owners want to know where materials are produced, how stable the production base is and how exposed supply chains may be to disruption.
Parade Label WS and Parade Label Pro are produced at Sappi’s Gratkorn mill in Austria. Its location in the heart of Europe, integrated pulp production and modern infrastructure support consistent quality and reliable delivery to European customers. Certified fibre sourcing, chain-of-custody systems and ongoing decarbonisation work add to the sustainability framework behind the grades.
At Sappi, the label-paper discussions at Interpack came back to a practical point: the right material reduces uncertainty. It protects brand presentation, supports efficient production, enables circular systems and strengthens supply confidence. In a packaging market under pressure from regulation, cost and material change, reliable label papers help keep one critical part of the pack under control.
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