Which Labelling Is Better: Wrap Around Or Shrink Sleeve?
Shrink sleeve labelling is a new thing in printing technology. Proponents pitch it as a new form of product labelling that is an excellent alternative for pre-printed containers. It is also more affordable.
However, a lot of people still prefer wrap labelling because it is more economical, especially for small manufacturers. It also offers better labelling than shrink sleeve labelling. If you are confused about shrink sleeve labelling or wrap-around labelling, read the article below:
Wrap-around labels
- Label Printing Options
You can easily print labels since they are readily available and you can choose among the different designs. You can also add black and white text and graphics to your labels. This allows you to add expiration dates, number, and barcodes.
- Coverage Capabilities
When it comes to coverage capabilities, wrap-around labels can be printed on plastic bottles by a UV printer. Most package suppliers print it around the entire container’s body, which allows 360-degree branding. However, some businesses prefer to only cover the front and back to allow customers to see the inside of the bottle.
- The Durability of the Label
Wrap-around labels are made from various substrates from layers of label materials. When you choose the right combination of coatings and adhesives, you can create a label that can withstand extreme temperature, condensation, and other harsh conditions. However, the label often depends on the bottle. If you plan on labelling a product that isn’t refrigerated, you can use fewer protective labels.
- Cost
It’s actually cheaper to design a wrap-around label than a shrink sleeve label. The cost for the equipment and running cost are also lower than a shrink sleeve machine. This is because a wrap-around label users rollers, air pressure, server, or any of these combinations to create and apply the labels.
Shrink Sleeve Labels
- Label Printing Options
There has been improvement in inkjet printing, yet flexographic labelling is still the standard for large volume printing. Most manufacturers use high-speed printers to apply labels directly to the bottler or containers. Moreover, the added cost of speciality ink is lower than wrap-around labelling.
- Coverage Capabilities
Shrink sleeve labels allow you to cover the full bottle regardless of size and shape. It offers more coverage for bottles with complex shapes than wrap-around labels. However, there is little difference between the two when it comes to cylindrical containers. For shrink sleeve labels, it increases your available labelling area by up to 150 per cent.
- The Durability of the Label
Shrink sleeve labels can withstand harsh temperatures and moisture since they are made of plastic, and it does not require adhesive. However, it is not abrasion-resistant. You can use thick sleeves to provide more structural rigidity.
- Cost
Usually, a shrink wrap label costs about 25 per cent more per container than wrap-around labels. This is because shrink sleeves use a steam tunnel, heat, or a combination of the two to shrink the plastic label. These methods require more energy and floor space than wrap-around labelling.
Whether you choose wrap-around labelling or shrink sleeve labelling, you need to decide based on your budget, the type of container you have, and the characteristics of the two. Always choose the best one that will fit your business.
Whether you need a plastic printer or an inkjet printer for your containers, you need to look for the best manufacturer that will meet your needs. Axzyra is a technology business located in the Hamlet of Conington, north of the inkjet technology hub Cambridge, UK. Our maintenance workshop and demo suite foster a relaxed, clear thinking organisation which makes it a great place for developing advanced print ideas and techniques, as well as hands-on demonstrations. Contact us today to set an appointment.
