There is described a labeling apparatus (1) for applying labels (2) onto a succession of articles (3) and a method of setting-up of said labeling apparatus (1) prior to the application of the labels (2). The labeling apparatus (1) comprises a transfer drum (21) for retaining on its outer surface (22) labels (2), a glue application roller (19) having an outer lateral surface (20) and being configured to apply a pattern of glue onto the labels (2). The transfer drum (21) comprises a plurality of pad assemblies (24) arranged along its outer surface (22) and pad assembly alignment means (42) configured to modify orientation and/or position of each one of the plurality of pad assemblies (24) to a respective working configuration for aligning each one of the plurality of pad assemblies (24) with respect to the outer lateral surface (20) of the glue application roller (19).

A labeling machine includes a conveyor to move containers to be labeled along an advancement path and at least one labeling station arranged along the advancement path. The labeling station includes an unreeling assembly for a label ribbon, on which multiple labels are printed in succession, and at least one drum designed to receive on its lateral surface the label ribbon or the labels obtained by cutting the label ribbon. At least one skid is arranged at the peripheral region of the drum and has at least one relief portion with the relief directed outward with respect to the remaining part of the lateral surface of the drum. At least one glue roller is arranged laterally to the drum. At least the relief portion of the skid is made of an elastically yielding material.