When perusing this issue, one thing will become increasingly apparent: There are a significant number of new business opportunities available for label converters. With the world in a state of flux and demands shifting, there has never been a better opportunity to expand one’s business than right now.

The Covid-19 pandemic has changed the way in which many of us have worked, but it has also expedited several key industry trends. The explosion of e-commerce and the rising need for automation have never been more prominent. Consumers flocked to Amazon and other online shopping sites to have products sent to their homes. This trend presents its own opportunities, from the unboxing experience to providing engaging – and consistent – labels and packaging on a smartphone or tablet.

Investing in automated equipment and software can also change a label printing business. These technologies can eliminate redundant manpower and divert those employees to other parts of the facility where attention is needed. And with many converters struggling to find qualified employees, new equipment can help tackle the workforce challenge – while also generating greater efficiencies and an improved bottom line. Read about how the latest developments in automation have the potential to change the landscape of our industry (page 67).

Of course, shrink sleeves (see page 74) are continuing to see strong growth. AWA Alexander Watson Associates estimates the global demand for labels in 2020 was approximately 68,379 million square meters, which represented growth of 3.3% on 2019 volumes. Suppliers have echoed these sentiments, as they have noticed an uptick in requests from their customers. Plus, the increasing adoption of digital printing opens up new markets for many converters, including craft beer labeling. Craft beers are reliant on shrink sleeves for their cans in many cases, making this a natural progression for label printers.

On page 16, we detail another possible business opportunity: the inclusion of scent on labels and packaging. With the shift toward e-commerce, brands must find new ways to create a memorable consumer engagement experience. Since packages are destined to be opened, what better greeting than a fragrance to provide a portal into the brand’s world?

“Research proves that scent can influence psychological and physiological states,” explains Jim Berard, CEO of Scentisphere. “Adding a brand’s scent on the packaging helps to positively engage the consumer at the all-important emotional level when they first engage with the product.”

As the world continues to open up in the coming months – and trade shows and open houses become a staple once again – label converters will have plenty of new technologies to explore. A lot has changed in the past 18 months, and your next investment could propel your business well into the future.


Greg Hrinya, Editor
ghrinya@rodmanmedia.com