Painting & Coating Industry (PCI) logo Powder coating summit logo
  • Sign In
  • Create Account
  • Sign Out
  • My Account
  • NEWS
  • PRODUCTS
  • MATERIALS
  • TECHNOLOGIES
  • FINISHING
  • RESOURCES
  • EVENTS
  • DIRECTORIES
  • EMAGAZINE
  • CONTACT
cart
facebook twitter linkedin youtube
  • NEWS
  • Latest News
  • Market Trends & Reports
  • Price Alerts
  • Subscribe to eNewsletters
  • Global Top 10/ PCI 25
  • Weekly Featured Article
  • COATLE Word Game
  • PRODUCTS
  • Product News
  • Must See Products and Services
  • MATERIALS
  • Additives
  • Resins/Polymers
  • Pigments
  • Equipment
  • Distributors
  • TECHNOLOGIES
  • Adhesives
  • Architectural Coatings
  • Industrial Coatings
  • Nanotechnology
  • Powder Coatings
  • Solventborne
  • Special Purpose Coatings
  • Sustainability
  • UV Coatings
  • Waterborne
  • Waterborne
  • FINISHING
  • Finishing News
  • Finishing Technologies
  • Finishing Equipment
  • RESOURCES
  • Columns
  • Blogs
  • Coatings Supplier Handbook
  • Podcasts and Videos
  • PCI Store
  • eBooks
  • Sponsor Insights
  • White Papers
  • COATLE Word Game
  • Columns
  • Ask Joe Powder
  • Did you know?
  • Distribution Dive
  • Focus on Canada
  • Formulating With Mike
  • Innovation Insights
  • Moody's Coatings Conundrums
  • Powder Coating Perspectives
  • Target the Market
  • TiO2 Insider
  • Blogs
  • Editor's Viewpoint
  • Industry Insights
  • Podcasts and Videos
  • COAT-IT! Podcast
  • Videos/PCI TV
  • EVENTS
  • Coatings Trends & Technologies Summit
  • Paint and Coatings Academy
  • Webinars
  • Calendar of Events
  • Lifetime Achievement Award
  • DIRECTORIES
  • Buyer's Guide
  • Equipment Directory
  • Materials Directory
  • EMAGAZINE
  • Current Issue
  • eMagazine Archive
  • China Issue Archive
  • Editorial Advisory Board
  • CONTACT
  • Contact Us
  • Advertise
  • Subscribe to eMagazine
  • Subscribe to eNewsletters
Painting & Coating Industry (PCI) logo Powder coating summit logo
search
cart
facebook twitter linkedin youtube
  • Sign In
  • Create Account
  • Sign Out
  • My Account
Painting & Coating Industry (PCI) logo Powder coating summit logo
  • NEWS
    • Latest News
    • Market Trends & Reports
    • Price Alerts
    • Subscribe to eNewsletters
    • Global Top 10/ PCI 25
    • Weekly Featured Article
    • COATLE Word Game
  • PRODUCTS
    • Product News
    • Must See Products and Services
  • MATERIALS
    • Additives
    • Resins/Polymers
    • Pigments
    • Equipment
    • Distributors
  • TECHNOLOGIES
    • Adhesives
    • Architectural Coatings
    • Industrial Coatings
    • Nanotechnology
    • Powder Coatings
    • Solventborne
    • Special Purpose Coatings
    • Sustainability
    • UV Coatings
    • Waterborne
    • FINISHING
      • Finishing News
      • Finishing Technologies
      • Finishing Equipment
    • RESOURCES
      • Columns
        • Ask Joe Powder
        • Did you know?
        • Distribution Dive
        • Focus on Canada
        • Formulating With Mike
        • Innovation Insights
        • Moody's Coatings Conundrums
        • Powder Coating Perspectives
        • Target the Market
        • TiO2 Insider
      • Blogs
        • Editor's Viewpoint
        • Industry Insights
      • Coatings Supplier Handbook
      • Podcasts and Videos
        • COAT-IT! Podcast
        • Videos/PCI TV
      • PCI Store
      • eBooks
      • Sponsor Insights
      • White Papers
      • COATLE Word Game
    • EVENTS
      • Coatings Trends & Technologies Summit
      • Paint and Coatings Academy
      • Webinars
      • Calendar of Events
      • Lifetime Achievement Award
    • DIRECTORIES
      • Buyer's Guide
      • Equipment Directory
      • Materials Directory
    • EMAGAZINE
      • Current Issue
      • eMagazine Archive
      • China Issue Archive
      • Editorial Advisory Board
    • CONTACT
      • Contact Us
      • Advertise
      • Subscribe to eMagazine
      • Subscribe to eNewsletters
    Finishing Articles

    Expand Product Reach by Printing Your Own Labels

    Finished Products
    March 3, 2014

    In the coating manufacturing business, the ability to affordably produce short- to medium-run, full-color product labels can be a major competitive advantage. Manufacturers can use custom labels to test prototype products, enter the white label product sector or expand their product offering. But all of this requires the ability to affordably label products that are produced in smaller quantities.

    In addition to the cost factor, expanding product reach also requires a way to produce and apply attractive labels. To effectively market paint and coating products, it’s absolutely crucial to package them attractively – professional-grade labels drive sales while a less-than-professional look can keep products on the shelf. However, many coating manufacturers find it a challenge to identify a solution that allows them to produce top-quality, full-color labels affordably. This article offers a look at various options.

    Traditional Label Printing Methods

    The default method for direct product labeling is to use flexographic (sometimes called “flexo”) printing, but there are downsides to this approach. Flexo printing is generally not cost effective unless the manufacturer produces a large number (10,000 or more) of identical labels. Color is also generally limited in flexo printing, and images such as logos or photos can be blurry.

    Offset printing is another option, but like flexo, it’s typically not cost effective except for very large runs. Offset printing is limited to sheet-fed presses, which means manufacturers receive labels on flat sheets rather than in rolls. This is a serious drawback for many manufacturers, who prefer labels on rolls because they are easier to store and work with automated applicators.

    Digital offset printing allows users to print variable information and accommodate shorter runs, but purchasing a press is cost-prohibitive for many companies – $100,000 and up. Securing digital offset printing services from a vendor is an option, but delivery times are typically several days to a week, and labels often require expensive lamination.

    Color thermal transfer printing is another commonly used traditional label printing method. It has the advantage of accommodating shorter runs. However, the print resolution is typically very low. For this reason, it is used most often for shipping and box labels.

    Newer Inkjet and Laser Label Printing Alternatives

    Coating manufacturers who need alternatives that accommodate short- and medium-run label printing now have two additional options: color inkjet and laser label printing, which can both produce durable labels with full color and high resolution images. Inkjet and laser label printers can be an ideal solution.

    Most consumers are familiar with inkjet printers from home and office use, and from that experience, many wonder if labels produced this way can stand up to the needs of a manufacturing application. However, professional-grade inkjet label printers use technology that produces robust, water-resistant labels on a variety of durable materials, including GHS-compliant substrates

    Color laser printers are often used in office settings too. However, the use of a color laser printer designed for offices to produce labels poses some challenges. The printers are typically sheet-fed, so they can’t produce the rolls manufacturers prefer. Also, office-style laser printers typically require the use of regular paper, and when they handle adhesive materials, they usually need more maintenance.

    However, there are printers on the market now that were specifically developed to print labels using inkjet and color laser technology. These printers were designed with label printing in mind and can handle a variety of labeling materials with ease. This feature is important for coatings manufacturers, whose products require labels that can stand up to exposure to water, chemicals and other elements.

    A color laser printer designed to accommodate a straight paper path can handle self-adhesive labels and labels made of polyesters and other materials without encountering the adhesive bleeding, paper jams and label thickness issues other laser printers encounter. There are also color laser printers on the market specifically designed to handle short- and medium-run label production, and it’s possible to add roll-feeding controls, making this type of printer ideal for many manufacturers.

    Label Finishing Options

    Once labels are printed on a digital press, they typically require “finishing” from a second process. Steps usually include die-cutting, optional laminating, slitting and rewinding to finished rolls. Most finishing options require use of flexible or hard-tooled rotary or semi-rotary dies, which can make this option expensive and delay production, as the die is created and delivered.

    Other options are available for manufacturers who need maximum flexibility and speed along with cost savings. One alternative is a system that uses pivoting knife blades to cut labels in a variety of sizes and shapes without use of a die. This option not only increases speed to market with up to four times faster production time, it’s generally much more affordable.

    New Options Can Open New Opportunities

    Coatings manufacturers can improve their competitive position with short- and medium-run label production capabilities, using labels to differentiate products, support campaigns and branch out into white label production. But first, they have to find an affordable solution that fits their needs, taking into account that the nature of the product will likely expose the labels to moisture and harsh chemicals and using labeling material that can handle that environment.

    In a highly competitive market, it is also important for manufacturers to identify a printing option that is affordable to purchase and maintain while also providing the flexibility they need to handle short- and medium-runs quickly. Specially designed inkjet and color laser options can be an ideal solution, and a finishing system that doesn’t use dies can speed time to market.

    Thanks to advances in printer technology, manufacturers have a number of options today. It’s possible to purchase a printing system that delivers the high-quality images that can set a product apart on the shelf without going over budget. While considering options, manufacturers should evaluate printers based on the price they can afford, the flexibility they need and the features they require. By choosing the right printing and finishing solution, coatings manufacturers can better compete. 

    KEYWORDS: Labels

    Share This Story

    Looking for a reprint of this article?
    From high-res PDFs to custom plaques, order your copy today!

    Recommended Content

    JOIN TODAY
    to unlock your recommendations.

    Already have an account? Sign In

    • PCI-0724-Global10-Feature-1440.png

      2024 Global Top 10: Top Paint and Coatings Companies

      Who ranks on top? PCI’s annual ranking of the top 10...
      Paint and Coating Market Reports
      By: Courtney Bassett
    • PCI-0724-PCI25-Feature-1440.png

      2024 PCI 25: Top Paint and Coatings Companies

      PCI's annual ranking of the top 25 North American paint...
      Global Top 10 and PCI 25
      By: Courtney Bassett
    • pci1022-Kinaltek-Lead-1170.jpg

      A Novel Pigment Production Technology

      Following an extensive R&D program that demonstrated...
      Paint and Coating Pigments
      By: Jawad Haidar and Nitin Soni
    You must login or register in order to post a comment.

    General Manager FCC Egypt

    Ashraf Mohamed
    July 25, 2014
    Quite good article about an innovative solution.We might use it in our manufacturing facility in Cairo

    Denial Brown
    March 9, 2024
    Great post, thank you. Now every company that provides printing services wants to get the best available materials and inks in order to create high-quality printed products. This is the best solution they can come up with at this time.

    Report Abusive Comment

    Subscribe For Free!
    • eMagazine
    • eNewsletter
    • Online Registration
    • Subscription Customer Service

    The Coatings Minute: Why Industry News Matters More Than Ever

    The Coatings Minute: Why Industry News Matters More Than Ever

    The Coatings Minute: Explore the 2024 PCI/ASI CASE eBook

    The Coatings Minute: Explore the 2024 PCI/ASI CASE eBook

    The Coatings Minute: Print Returns with PCI’s New Showcase Issue

    The Coatings Minute: Print Returns with PCI’s New Showcase Issue

    CTT Registration Now Open

    CTT Registration Now Open

    More Videos

    Sponsored Content

    Sponsored Content is a special paid section where industry companies provide high quality, objective, non-commercial content around topics of interest to the PCI audience. All Sponsored Content is supplied by the advertising company and any opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and not necessarily reflect the views of PCI or its parent company, BNP Media. Interested in participating in our Sponsored Content section? Contact your local rep!

    close
    • Modern arapartment complex painted in bright colors.
      Sponsored byEPS - Engineered Polymer Solutions

      Architectural Polymers Leading the Way in Coatings Innovation

    • paint sprayer in a workshop
      Sponsored byallnex

      Enabling Performance and Compliance: allnex Introduces a New Line of VOC Exempt Solvent-Borne Resins

    Popular Stories

    No. 3 AkzoNobel

    AkzoNobel to Close Two Manufacturing Sites

    A collage of products using non-PFAS

    A Surge in Non-PFAS Releases

    Default Aerospace Image

    PPG Plans Major Aerospace Facility



    PCI Buyers Guide

    Submit a Request for Proposal (RFP) to suppliers of your choice with details on what you need with a click of a button

    Start your RFP

    Browse our Buyers Guide for manufacturers and distributors of all types of coatings products and much more!

    Find Suppliers

    Events

    September 3, 2025

    Coatings Trends & Technologies Summit

    The Coatings Trends & Technologies (CTT) Summit is an annual conference for both liquid and powder coatings formulators and manufacturers to discuss innovations in coatings technology. This event combines high-quality technical presentations, a resource-rich exhibit hall, and dedicated networking opportunities to connect scientific minds, foster innovation, and cultivate game-changing new ideas!

    January 1, 2030

    Webinar Sponsorship Information

    For webinar sponsorship information, visit www.bnpevents.com/webinars or email webinars@bnpmedia.com.

    View All Submit An Event

    Poll

    Longest-running laboratory experiment

    What is the longest-running laboratory experiment?
    View Results Poll Archive

    Products

    CTT Summit Short Courses (Live 9/3/25)

    Coatings Trends & Technologies Summit is expanding its offerings with four short courses. These short courses will offer an extensive day of interactive learning.

    See More Products
    pci  webinar april 2025

    PCI CASE EBOOK

    Related Articles

    • U.S. Demand for Printing Ink to Reach $5.6 Billion

      See More
    • MarketForecasts-118438237.jpg

      Report Predicts Market for Smart Coatings to Reach $9.8 Billion by 2025

      See More
    • Market Forecasts

      Printing Inks Market to Reach $18.2 Billion

      See More

    Related Products

    See More Products
    • marketsandmarketslogo.jpg

      Pipe Coatings Market by Surface (Internal and External)...

    • marketsandmarketslogo.jpg

      Protective Coatings Market by Resin Type...

    See More Products
    ×

    Keep the info flowing with our eNewsletters!

    Get the latest industry updates tailored your way.

    JOIN TODAY!
    • RESOURCES
      • Advertise
      • Contact Us
      • Directories
      • Store
      • Want More
    • SIGN UP TODAY
      • Create Account
      • eMagazine
      • eNewsletters
      • Customer Service
      • Manage Preferences
    • SERVICES
      • Marketing Services
      • Reprints
      • Market Research
      • List Rental
      • Survey & Sample
    • STAY CONNECTED
      • LinkedIn
      • Facebook
      • Youtube
      • X (Twitter)
    • PRIVACY
      • PRIVACY POLICY
      • TERMS & CONDITIONS
      • DO NOT SELL MY PERSONAL INFORMATION
      • PRIVACY REQUEST
      • ACCESSIBILITY

    Copyright ©2025. All Rights Reserved BNP Media.

    Design, CMS, Hosting & Web Development :: ePublishing

    Painting & Coating Industry (PCI) logo Powder coating summit logo
    search
    cart
    facebook twitter linkedin youtube
    • Sign In
    • Create Account
    • Sign Out
    • My Account
    Painting & Coating Industry (PCI) logo Powder coating summit logo
    • NEWS
      • Latest News
      • Market Trends & Reports
      • Price Alerts
      • Subscribe to eNewsletters
      • Global Top 10/ PCI 25
      • Weekly Featured Article
      • COATLE Word Game
    • PRODUCTS
      • Product News
      • Must See Products and Services
    • MATERIALS
      • Additives
      • Resins/Polymers
      • Pigments
      • Equipment
      • Distributors
    • TECHNOLOGIES
      • Adhesives
      • Architectural Coatings
      • Industrial Coatings
      • Nanotechnology
      • Powder Coatings
      • Solventborne
      • Special Purpose Coatings
      • Sustainability
      • UV Coatings
      • Waterborne
      • FINISHING
        • Finishing News
        • Finishing Technologies
        • Finishing Equipment
      • RESOURCES
        • Columns
          • Ask Joe Powder
          • Did you know?
          • Distribution Dive
          • Focus on Canada
          • Formulating With Mike
          • Innovation Insights
          • Moody's Coatings Conundrums
          • Powder Coating Perspectives
          • Target the Market
          • TiO2 Insider
        • Blogs
          • Editor's Viewpoint
          • Industry Insights
        • Coatings Supplier Handbook
        • Podcasts and Videos
          • COAT-IT! Podcast
          • Videos/PCI TV
        • PCI Store
        • eBooks
        • Sponsor Insights
        • White Papers
        • COATLE Word Game
      • EVENTS
        • Coatings Trends & Technologies Summit
        • Paint and Coatings Academy
        • Webinars
        • Calendar of Events
        • Lifetime Achievement Award
      • DIRECTORIES
        • Buyer's Guide
        • Equipment Directory
        • Materials Directory
      • EMAGAZINE
        • Current Issue
        • eMagazine Archive
        • China Issue Archive
        • Editorial Advisory Board
      • CONTACT
        • Contact Us
        • Advertise
        • Subscribe to eMagazine
        • Subscribe to eNewsletters