The Finat European Label Forum 2024 delved deep into the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in Session 4, addressing both the opportunities and challenges this disruptive technology poses to the label industry. Presented by Katie King and Dieter Tschemernjak, this session offered a comprehensive exploration of AI’s role in driving innovation, improving operational efficiencies, and maintaining competitive advantage.
AI: The Defining Technology of Our Time
Katie King set the stage by emphasising the pivotal nature of AI as the defining technology of our generation. Far from being confined to futuristic dreams, AI is deeply embedded in practical applications that revolutionise industries, including the label sector. King's presentation underscored AI's dual nature as a tool for augmented intelligence rather than a job-replacing force. By automating repetitive tasks, it enables professionals to focus on strategic, value-added activities.
King conducted live audience polls to gauge sentiments about AI. Attendees highlighted concerns around job redundancy, privacy, and cultural shifts. However, she argued that AI, when applied ethically, enhances rather than diminishes human roles, offering tailored insights and fostering stronger customer connections.
Disruptive Potential of AI in Strategy and Innovation
Dieter Tschemernjak built upon King’s foundation by framing AI as a disruptive force with significant implications for strategic and innovation processes. Drawing parallels to historical disruptions like the digital camera revolution, Tschemernjak warned that industries failing to adapt to AI risk obsolescence. He advocated adopting AI-driven tools not just for efficiency but for redefining strategy and fostering creativity.
Tschemernjak highlighted AI's capacity to:
- Accelerate data analysis and interpretation.
- Enhance competitive intelligence.
- Enable scenario planning and innovation forecasting.
- Streamline cross-functional collaboration.
By integrating AI into innovation workflows, companies can transition from reactive to proactive approaches, staying ahead of industry trends and customer needs.
AI in the Label Industry: Practical Use Cases
Both speakers explored AI’s specific applications within the label industry:
- AI-Powered Printing and Packaging: Automating design processes, reducing waste, and optimising production lines.
- Quality Assurance: Using AI to detect anomalies and defects in real time, improving product reliability.
- Sustainability Initiatives: Leveraging AI for recycling, circular economy models, and reducing environmental footprints.
- Customer Experience: Employing generative AI tools for personalised marketing campaigns, such as Heinz’s AI-designed limited-edition labels that garnered over 850 million impressions.
Tschemernjak also introduced Inno-Verse, a platform utilising AI to transform strategy and innovation processes. Inno-Verse supports trend monitoring, competitive screening, and collaborative workspace functionality, offering tailored insights to drive decision-making.
Balancing Innovation and Ethics
A recurring theme was the ethical use of AI. Both King and Tschemernjak stressed the need for regulation and transparency to address privacy concerns, mitigate biases, and prevent misuse. The EU's recent binding laws on AI were cited as a step forward, but international collaboration remains vital.
Key recommendations for organizations included:
- Establishing cross-departmental AI task forces to monitor trends and implement best practices.
- Fostering a culture of agility and inclusion.
- Developing ethical frameworks to maintain customer trust and compliance.
- Actionable Insights and Roadmap.
The session concluded with a pragmatic roadmap for integrating AI into organisational strategy:
- Mindset for Change: Encourage a culture of learning and adaptability.
- Board-Level Buy-In: Secure executive support for AI initiatives.
- Proof of Concept: Pilot AI projects in marketing, HR, or production to demonstrate value.
- Collaboration: Partner with industry peers, universities, and AI vendors to co-develop solutions.
- Ethical Guidelines: Implement transparent policies on data usage and AI application.
A Call to Action
Session 4 of the ELF 2024 underscored that AI is not a distant phenomenon but a present-day catalyst for transformation. For the label industry, adopting AI means not just staying competitive but leading innovation. As Katie King aptly summarised, AI offers tools to augment human intelligence, driving progress across all facets of business. The challenge now lies in harnessing its potential responsibly and strategically.
These insights can serve as a foundation for more detailed discussions, guiding the industry towards a more resilient and sustainable future. FINAT welcomes the label industry to continue the dialogue at the upcoming European Label Forum on 21 - 23 May 2025 in Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
