Gallus’ Ferdinand Ruesch honoured with R Stanton Avery Special Recognition Award

The Label Industry Global Awards 2024 winners were revealed on 10 September 2024, the first evening of the Labelexpo Americas show at Parkway Bank Park in Rosemont, Illinois, USA.

In a speech, Ruesch expressed his deep gratitude and reflected on his remarkable journey.

During his speech, Ferdinand spoke passionately about his lifelong dedication to the industry, acknowledging the significance of the award and its connection to his family legacy. He said, "Receiving this award is a humbling experience for me, especially considering that my father, Ferdinand the third, was bestowed with the same honour in 1993. It's a testament to the enduring legacy of our family in the label industry."

Ruesch has had a special connection with the label industry and the labellers in India. In an interview in September last year, he said, “What stands out most about India is its people, strong family values, and rich culture permeating every aspect of life. These things resonate deeply with my values and priorities, making me feel like a part of their extended family.” He added, “Additionally, I am constantly impressed by the resilience and resourcefulness of Gallus customers, who manage to overcome significant challenges in order to get their work done in an environment that is often more difficult than in other parts of the world.”

During the awards ceremony, Ruesch also took the opportunity to commend the past recipients of the award, highlighting their entrepreneurial spirit and exceptional character. He stated, "It's an honour to be among individuals who excel in business and exemplify integrity and passion for our industry. They have truly impacted the label industry, and I am privileged to share this recognition with them."

Expressing his gratitude for the industry's unsung heroes, Ruesch extended appreciation to the dedicated individuals behind the companies, label printing shops, inking manufacturers, substrate manufacturers, and other suppliers. He emphasised their vital role in advancing the industry and fostering innovation.

Ruesch's speech culminated with a heartfelt acknowledgement of his wife, Karen, and the announcement of his upcoming retirement. He said, "I am immensely grateful for the unwavering support of my wife, Karen, throughout my career. This award signifies a significant milestone as I transition into the next chapter of my life.”

Ruesch will retire from Gallus at the end of this year. “While I look forward to retirement, my connection to the label industry will always remain steadfast," he said.