Print in the Channel - issue #24

SUSTAINABILITY – LINERLESS LABELLING

CONTINUED

footprint. Additionally, customers can maximise label usage from each roll, cutting material costs. Fewer roll changes also mean less downtime resulting in increased productivity, addressing any cost and efficiency concerns. Likewise, the recyclability should be emphasised. “Compared to traditional labels with liners, linerless labels eliminate the backing paper so there's less waste to manage,” Deyon says. “Also, the ability to recycle linerless labels is on the increase as label manufacturers are developing label materials and adhesives that can be easily recycled. This makes linerless labels an attractive option for businesses and customers looking to reduce their environmental impact.” As well as extolling the environmental, safety, and operational efficiency benefits of linerless, resellers should tailor benefits by sector, Bob adds. “For example, if they’re talking to ready-to-eat outlet they might highlight being able to print labels of different lengths,” he says. “Similarly, 'clean’ settings like laboratories might value the absence of a backing liner as it poses a contamination risk.” Jay adds that the affordability of linerless label printing has improved significantly. “This makes it a viable solution for businesses aiming to enhance their sustainability efforts,” he says. “Resellers should also consider highlighting the cost-saving benefits of reduced waste, as well as the availability of certified linerless media that ensures optimal printer performance. Many manufacturers now offer compatible linerless label bundles, allowing resellers to present a complete solution that enhances printer longevity while minimising potential downtime due to maintenance or repairs.” Future With sustainability set to remain a priority for businesses, that is likely to help demand for linerless labelling to increase

Linerless labelling provides opportunities for rethinking packaging design that we haven’t even thought of yet, and that’s exciting from aesthetic, commercial and

in the coming years. “The future of linerless labelling is

set for significant growth,” says Deyon. “This surge is driven by the push for eco- friendly solutions, as linerless labels cut down on waste and costs. Innovations like anti-microbial coatings and touchless interactions, especially in healthcare, are also set to make an impact. Stricter labelling regulations will keep the industry proactive, pushing for more innovation. Plus, the rise of automated label print and apply systems will turn manufacturing into smooth, 24/7 operations with minimal waste.” Bob agrees: “Growth for linerless label printing will be fuelled by sustainability, technological advancements, and a widening range of applications,” he says. “Sustainability is still high on corporate agendas, to either meet regulatory requirements or procure more eco- friendly solutions, so this will continue to drive interest in linerless. “The most enthusiastic adoption for linerless is currently coming from retailers for processes like shelf-labelling, or from shipping to simplify package identification and tracking, or from food and beverage outlets where the moisture-resistant labels are widely used for quick service. “For the future, however, as applications expand, we anticipate interest from

sustainability perspectives.

Lewis Cook co-founder & CEO

catapultprint.com

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