By Melissa Donovan
Part 2 of 3
As discussed in the first article in this series, adding labels, stickers, and/or decals to a wide format print shop can be done using wide format or narrow format, dedicated label equipment. Growth in label printing solidifies why a print shop may take on this service offering—but they should proceed with caution.
Learning Curve
With digital label printing continuing to prove advantageous to whomever implements it, it’s important to look at the challenges that may arise.
When it comes to print-and-cut or print-to-cut processes involving wide format printers, the learning curve is minimal, admits Ken Parsley, product applications engineer, Mutoh America, Inc. “If they already have a print-and-cut workflow they have most of the knowledge they need. Learning to produce variable data labels is the biggest challenge but should not take more than a few hours to figure out.”
Roland DGA Corporation’s roll-to-roll UV printer/cutters, like the new TrueVIS LG-300, LG-540, and LG-640 models, are very easy to use and can be set up in less than a half day, according to the company.
“The learning curve for operations typically is four hours or less, including familiarization with the included VersaWorks RIP software. The printer/cutters themselves are engineered for simple operation and optimum convenience, while VersaWorks is also intuitive and user friendly, while still being a powerful production tool,” says Jay Roberts, UV printer product manager, Roland.
When discussing narrow format dedicated label printers, the learning curve changes. Steve Lynn, director, labels and packaging, Durst Image Technology, cautions on the difficulty level due to the different medias. “Printing labels isn’t difficult with digital but there is a steep learning curve in label finishing and embellishment when compared to large format print. However, if the right resources and dedication is put into place, the learning curve can be easily managed, provided there is quite a bit of forethought into how to accomplish incorporating new label products into your mix of offerings.”
“Wide format shops are proficient with web to print and familiar with managing many short-run jobs, therefore with the right equipment, there is not a great learning curve. At most, there might be a three to six month adjustment period depending on whether shops wish to print simple stickers or labels with additional finishing capabilities,” advises Mike Pruitt, product manager, SurePress, Epson America, Inc.
He suggests looking at digital label presses for entry-level environments. These offer versatility, a streamlined workflow, and are designed to be easy to use with unattended operation. “By onboarding a reliable label press and following manufacturer recommendations for substrate type and general maintenance for the equipment, shop owners can set themselves up for a quick start to sellable production,” continues Pruitt.
Trending Times
Multiple trends are foreseen into 2023 and beyond. Print providers are part of the movement and not idle bystanders.
Tony Simmering, product manager, Mutoh America, Inc., says one thing changing the label space is unique shapes and designs that integrate with packaging. “This is difficult to produce on a traditional label printer that can only produce in basic shapes like three-inch rounds. Print service providers creating labels with print and cut have the freedom to design for any shape and size.”
Part of the reason why labels are changing in shape and size is because of the increase in consumers’ engaging with packaging. “The ability to customize products and campaigns quickly and efficiently will be critical for brands looking to drive their engagement on a business to consumer level. Shorter run label jobs with more regional customization is a trend we expect in label production. Inkjet labels can now rival analog production in terms of speed and quality, but brings the benefit of easy customization, versioning, and variable data,” shares Lynn.
Another theme is the idea of the one-stop shop. “The trend for print providers is to capture and print as much of the customer’s printing campaigns as possible in one location. Not only does it make sense economically, but it typically produces better overall results, as being able to control the color and quality under one roof helps ensure consistency,” explains Roberts.
One way print providers can print more is automation. “In 2023, we will see a switch from labor-intensive equipment to more automated equipment. Some digital label presses are engineered with automation capabilities, therefore there will be more jobs run on automated digital as labor is scarce for production on analog,” explains Pruitt.
Juan Kim, CEO, Valloy Incorporation, points to eco-friendly solutions as trending in the label space this year. “Print shops can consider linerless labels for monocolor simple labels and eco-friendly substrates for full-color labels.”
Overcome and Achieve
Entry-level label printers as well as wide format solutions more familiar to a print provider are available for printing labels, stickers, and decals. Both present minimal challenges when it comes to learning how to use. The final part in this series on label printing looks at some of the products available on the market from vendors interviewed in this article.
Apr2023, Digital Output
