Labels are found on almost everything we buy, from the food packaging in our kitchen to the personal care products in our bathroom. But what exactly are they? Are they just stickers with a fancy name, or do they have a deeper purpose? Spoiler alert: They do!
If you’re new to the world of labelling, this guide will provide you with a clear understanding of what labels are, why we use them, and how they are applied to products. Knowing this will help you choose the right label materials and to enhance your product presentation.
Why do labels matter?
Labels aren’t just for decoration (though they do make products pop). Without labels, products would lack identity and the necessary information consumers rely on to make informed purchasing decisions. Labels serve important roles, such as:
- Branding & marketing: Imagine a world with plain, nameless bottles—confusing, right? Labels give products personality and showcase a company’s logo, colours, product information and design elements helping brands say, “Pick me!”.
- Product information: From ingredients and safety warnings to expiration dates and instructions, labels keep you informed (and safe!).
- Legal must-haves: Ever seen allergen information or warning triangles? That’s labels doing their job. Many industries such as food, pharmaceuticals and chemicals, require labels to meet legal standards for consumer safety and compliance.
- Inventory tracking: Labels with barcodes and QR codes help businesses keep inventory in check and allow for efficient tracking during shipping and logistics
How are labels constructed?
Labels aren’t just bits of paper stuck to a bottle—they’re layered creations!
The main components of a label are:
Face stock (the star of the show): The top surface where branding, text, and designs are printed. This can be printed onto:
- Paper: great for short-term use such as food labels and retail tags.
- Plastic/film: more durable and resistant to water, oil, and chemicals, making them ideal for shampoo bottles, outdoor products or industrial use.
- Foil & speciality materials: textured labels add a premium look, often used for luxury packaging and impactful branding.
Adhesive (the sticky business): The glue that keeps the label in place. Options include:
- Permanent adhesives: Designed for long-term sticking and difficult to remove. Once stuck, it’s staying!
- Removable adhesives: Allows labels to be taken off without leaving sticky residue.
- Freezer & high-heat adhesives: For extreme conditions like heat or cold, specialised adhesives are used.
Liner (the silent partner): The backing that holds the label and protects the adhesive until it’s applied manually or through a labelling machine.
Lamination: A label’s armour
Lamination is the secret to a long-lasting label. It’s an extra protective layer added on top of the label protecting it from moisture, UV rays, scratches, and fading. Choose from:
- Glossy: Shiny and attention-grabbing, giving your label a vibrant finish that enhances colours and visual appeal.
- Matte: Classy and subtle. Provides a soft, muted look with a smooth, non-reflective surface.
- Textured: Adds a unique feel to the label, making it stand out from standard finishes.
Stick it right: How labels are applied
Labels don’t just appear—they’re applied in various ways depending on the product and industry:
- Hand application: Great for small batches. Small businesses often hand-apply labels, especially on artisanal or limited-production goods.
- Machine application: For speed and precision. Used in medium- to large-scale production, these machines quickly and precisely apply labels to products, ensuring consistency.
– Desktop application: A great solution for small to medium runs, allowing businesses to print and apply labels in-house with ease.
– Industrial application: Designed for medium to high volume production, using automated systems to handle large label runs efficiently and seamlessly.
Final thoughts: Stick with the best!
Next time you grab a product, take a moment to appreciate its label—it’s doing more than you think! Whether for branding, safety, or practicality, labels are the unsung heroes of packaging.
Need high-quality labels? At Label Solutions, we specialise in custom label manufacturing, creating labels that stick, shine, and make your product stand out. Contact our skilled team today to find your perfect label solution!
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