Flexo Label Advantage Group LLC (FLAG) will bring together three industry veterans for a panel discussion at its 2026 Annual Meeting in San Diego, focused on strengthening collaboration across the label value chain.
Titled “Inside the Label Value Chain: How Brands, Designers, and Converters Work Best Together,” the session will examine a familiar industry challenge: label converters are often brought in after key decisions have already been made – designs are finalized, timelines are compressed, and expectations are locked in.
This panel will take an honest look at how decisions are actually made, where breakdowns tend to occur, and how independent converters can engage earlier in the process to help shape stronger outcomes for brands and agencies alike.
The discussion will feature perspectives from across the value chain, including:
• Michael Milam, Chief Operating Officer of Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soaps,
• Jeremy Dahl, Co-Founder and Co-Creative Director of BexBrands, and
• Adam Peek, Co-Owner of The Label King.
Guiding the conversation will be Jackie Kuehlmann, senior principal at LPC.
In addition, FLAG will spotlight two developments in the use of AIat its 2026 Annual Meeting in San Diego, California, delivering guidance for Members and Vendor Partners navigating a rapidly evolving marketplace.
FLAG President JC McKay will present an introduction to artificial intelligence, tailored specifically for the independent label converter.
The session will clarify the difference between today’s widely used generative AI tools, such as large language models like ChatGPT, and emerging AI systems capable of functioning as always-on digital “agents” working on behalf of a business.
McKay will present real-world, print-industry-relevant applications for both converters and suppliers, demonstrating how AI can support sales, estimating, customer service, workflow management, and operational decision-making. A key emphasis of the session will center on a critical principle: AI output is only as strong as the quality of the input. Clear parameters, structured data, and defined objectives determine whether AI becomes a competitive advantage.
The 2026 FLAG Annual Meeting will take place March 23–26 in San Diego, California, and is exclusive to FLAG Members and Vendor Partners. For information on membership, visit www.flagadvantage.com/join.
