A research publication of LPC, Inc. | info@lpcprint.com
LPC Trendline
What converters are planning. What suppliers need to understand.
LPC Trendline
What converters are planning. What suppliers need to understand.
The market, as converters see it.
Trendline is LPC's annual study of label and narrow web converters in the United States and Canada. Through detailed surveys and one-on-one interviews, it examines how converters are approaching investment, operating pressures, customer expectations, and their relationships with suppliers.
LPC draws on nearly three decades of printing and packaging industry work to interpret the findings, examine differences by converter size, and explain their implications for converters and the suppliers who serve them.
The 2026 study at a glance
70+
80%+
70+
label and narrow web converters across the United States and Canada participated in the research
67%
80%+
70+
of converters cite automation and efficiency as a driver of press investment
80%+
80%+
80%+
of converters rank lead times and product availability as their #1 supplier challenge
Still investing, just much more carefully.
Converters told us 2026 is a reset year, not a retreat. Every purchase has to earn its place, with tighter justification, shorter payback expectations, and a sharper focus on protecting margins.
For converters
For converters
For converters
Converters who complete the Trendline 2027 survey receive the full report at no cost. It helps you put your own priorities and challenges in context by showing how other converters are approaching investment, workforce needs, customer expectations, and technology.
For suppliers
For converters
For converters
The full Trendline report is an exclusive resource for LPC clients. If you supply equipment, consumables, or substrates to converters, let's talk about how LPC's research and expertise could support your plans.
In partnership with FLAG
Small to mid-sized converter research conducted in partnership with FLAG (Flexo Label Advantage Group)
LPC Trendline is a research publication of LPC, Inc. · info@lpcprint.com · lpcprint.com · © 2026 LPC, Inc. All rights reserved.
This website uses cookies.
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.