Labels that stick
Your product label is more than just a sticker - it’s a vital part of your brand identity, compliance, and customer engagement. Whether you need eye-catching finishes, industry-specific adhesives, or barcode precision, sourcing labels from a dedicated manufacturer ensures you get the quality and customisation your products deserve.
Unlike packaging suppliers that outsource label production, a dedicated label manufacturer provides full control over materials, design, and printing, supplying you with unique labels that truly stand out. Here’s a few reasons why working directly with a label manufacturer is the smarter choice for businesses that refuse to compromise on quality.
Benefits of Buying Directly from a Label Manufacturer
• Expertise in Label Production
Dedicated label manufacturers specialise in label design, material selection, adhesive performance, and printing technologies. They understand the unique requirements of different industries—whether you need food-safe labels, durable industrial tags, or high-resolution premium branding. Packaging suppliers, on the other hand, may treat labels as an afterthought rather than a core focus.
• Quality and Customisation
Labels play a crucial role in branding, compliance, and product durability. A label manufacturer can tailor materials, adhesives, and print finishes to your specific needs, ensuring:
- Superior print clarity for barcodes and branding: Barcode print quality is a crucial feature of a product label, especially as it moves through the checkout and supply chain, quality label manufacturers will guarantee industry compliance.
- Industry-compliant adhesives for different surfaces and storage conditions: Ink fusion to the label substrate is critical for label longevity; a label manufacturer will ensure your labels are fit-for-purpose.
- Custom shapes, sizes, and finishes: Packaging suppliers that outsource labels often provide limited customisation, forcing you to choose from standard options that may not align with your brand’s needs.
Additional advantages
• Consistent and Reliable Supply
Label manufacturers control their own production schedules and can offer faster turnaround times, ensuring you get your labels when you need them. When packaging suppliers outsource label production, you are at the mercy of a third-party printer’s schedule - potentially leading to long lead times, unreliable delivery, and in the worst-case - production downtime.
• Cost Savings and Transparent Pricing
Buying directly from a label manufacturer eliminates unnecessary middlemen. When a packaging supplier outsources label production, they mark up the cost to cover their own margins. By purchasing directly, you get competitive pricing with no hidden markups.
• Technical Support and Compliance Expertise
Labelling regulations vary by industry, and mistakes can be costly. Label manufacturers have in-depth knowledge of compliance requirements for food and beverage labelling, pharmaceutical packaging, chemical hazard warnings, and more. With a dedicated label partner, you have access to expert guidance, whereas a packaging supplier may lack the expertise to ensure compliance.
Pitfalls of Buying Labels from a Packaging Supplier
• Lack of Control Over Quality
Since packaging suppliers outsource label production, they have little control over the materials and printing standards used. This can lead to:
- poor quality label face stock can act as a sandpaper on thermal print heads causing production downtime and unexpected machinery expenses;
- Inconsistent colours and print quality across different batches and runs;
- Adhesive failures that cause labels to peel, fade or fall off;
- Poor barcode readability, leading to scanning issues in warehouses, supply chain, and retail stores.
• Longer Lead Times & Supply Chain Delays
Because packaging suppliers act as intermediaries, your label order is subject to their third-party’s availability and processing times. If a problem arises, such as a printing error or supply chain disruption, it can take longer to resolve compared to working directly with a label manufacturer.
Additional drawbacks
• Limited Customisation & Flexibility
Many packaging suppliers offer a one-size-fits-all approach to labelling. You may find yourself limited in material choices, finishing options, or the ability to make quick design adjustments. In contrast, a label manufacturer can provide tailor-made solutions that align with your brand’s vision and unique requirements.
• Higher Costs with No Added Value
Outsourcing label production means packaging suppliers add their own markup, increasing costs without adding value. You pay more for labels that may not even meet your quality standards.
For reliability, partner with a local label manufacturer
Your product labels are an essential part of your branding, compliance, and supply chain efficiency. While packaging suppliers may offer convenience, they often lack the expertise, control, and flexibility that a dedicated label manufacturer provides.
By partnering directly with a trusted Australian label manufacturer, you gain:
• Superior quality and consistency
• Faster turnarounds and reliable supply
• Direct pricing with no hidden markups
• Custom label solutions tailored to your needs
• Industry expertise and compliance assurance
