A label should never be considered a mere accessory.

A quality label is a key pillar of your operational efficiency, your regulatory compliance, and ultimately, your profitability.

A poorly chosen label can be enough to trigger a costly chain reaction. And so, by focusing on the quality of your labels, you are focusing on performance.

 

The Real Cost of a Low-Quality Label

Unforeseen Production Shutdowns

Something as simple as a label peeling off or an unreadable barcode is enough to halt your entire production line. This results in labor costs, energy costs, and lost opportunities.

 

Traceability Issues

Sooner or later, without a clear and durable label, your tracking systems become ineffective.

The result: batch errors, delayed shipments, or even product recalls.

 

Rejection with Automated Systems

Although new optical scanners are more efficient, a large percentage of the current scanner fleet consists of devices with aging technology.

These are unforgiving with labels that are blurry, reflective, or poorly printed. This leads to frequent rejects, slows down your lines, and increases the number of manual interventions.

 

Waste and Costly Reconditioning

Without a compliant label, some products become unsellable. Reconditioning requires time, materials, and results in a net productivity loss.

 

The Advantages of a High-End Label

Reliable Label Adhesion, Even on Difficult Surfaces

Thanks to suitable materials and adhesives, the label stays in place until the point of sale, regardless of humidity, friction, or temperature conditions.

 

Perfect Readability

High-resolution printing, enhanced contrast, and flawless barcodes: everything is meticulously designed to guarantee a seamless and reliable scan from the beginning to the end of the production line.

 

Exceptional Durability

IMS labels are designed to perform in the most demanding environments, from humid production lines to cold rooms or dusty warehouses.

 

Quality Equals Savings

The unit cost of a high-quality label is negligible compared to the astronomical long-term costs that become more likely with a low-quality label.

By investing in quality labels, you safeguard your business from:

  • interruptions
  • product losses
  • regulatory issues

 

Comparative Table: Quality Labels Versus Low-Cost Labels

CriteriaQuality labelsLow-cost labels
Unit costHigher purchase costLower purchase cost
AdhesionExcellent, even on difficult surfaces and in extreme environmentsLow to moderate, risk of peeling or slipping
DurabilityResistant to humidity, friction, temperature variations, and chemicalsPoor resistance to harsh conditions, degrades quickly
ReadabilitySharp printing, optimal contrast, nearly perfect automated reading rateInconsistent print quality, optical recognition issues
Compatibility with automated systemsPerfect: prevents rejects and interruptionsFrequent reading and integration problems in the automated line
TraceabilityOptimized: each product is accurately identifiedRisk of errors, confusion, or information loss
Impact on productionSmooth operation, fewer stops and manual interventionsPossible interruptions, frequent maintenance and corrections needed
Overall operating costLess waste, fewer defects, better productivityIncreased indirect costs (stoppages, rework, product loss)
Regulatory complianceGuaranteed compliance (resistance, durability, UL/CSA standards)Risk of non-compliance, reconditioning, and market withdrawal
Brand imageStrengthens perception of reliability and professionalismCan harm credibility if visible product issues occur
Return on investment (ROI)Excellent mid and long termLow, because low-cost short term but cumulative losses long term

IMS offers a comprehensive 360° approach, providing you with support that begins with the initial needs analysis all the way through to the implementation of your printing solutions.

A well-designed label protects your manufacturing processes, your brand’s reputation, and ensures meeting your deadlines.

For every penny saved on a low-cost label, how much do you lose in halted production or damaged brand image?

READ
MORE