The linerless label revolution: Are you in?

In recent years, the demand for linerless labels has undergone an upward trajectory, driven by a confluence of factors. This remarkable success is just the tip of the iceberg and is a good indication that the industry is poised for even more growth in the future. 

To remain competitive in this growing market, more and more label printers and converters are tapping into the numerous advantages of manufacturing linerless labels from start to finish. 

A sustainable and cost-effective solution

The rise in popularity for this type of label is attributable to a host of factors, the main one being its eco-friendly attributes. Without a release liner, these labels use less material, making them a highly sustainable alternative. Additionally, linerless labels offer a lower overall cost per label, higher label quantities per reel (reducing packaging and shipping costs), and less overall waste. As environmental considerations increasingly drive corporate decisions, the benefits of linerless labels are prompting label converters to adapt swiftly to maintain their competitive edge.

Changing the way printers and converters do business

Over the past two decades, the value chain in label production has undergone significant changes. Rather than than sourcing raw materials (paper, film, adhesive, silicone) from a laminator, an increasing number of printers and converters are sourcing directly from suppliers to manufacture their own labelstock. This highly efficient approach provides unparalleled flexibility and independence, enabling label converters to meet diverse orders for all types of labels, including prime and VIP linerless labels. Embracing linerless labels essentially diversifies your product portfolio and creates opportunities in sectors such as weigh scaling, logistics, and fast-food applications—all key markets within the linerless label market.

Innovate from start to finish

As a Canadian based company with a global presence, ETI has earned an enviable reputation for its state-of-the-art inline printing, silicone/adhesive coating, and converting equipment. Its product range enables label printers and converters to enter this lucrative sector and become far more competitive. For example, machines like LinerO and Cohesio are available in a range of widths from 13 to 64in. and are designed to be customized with advantageous features like the pattern coating station or the one using water-based acrylic adhesives. 

A typical production run using ETI's equipment encompasses the following steps:

1.    A large roll of face material, paper, or film is placed on an unwind system.
2.    The substrate goes through one or multiple flexo printing stations. Alternatively, an unsupported preprinted face material may also be used, eliminating the printing step.  
3.    A UV-curable silicone release coating is applied on top of the face material, acting as the release liner.
4.    Pressure-sensitive adhesive (hotmelt, UV-curable hotmelt, water-based) is applied on the underside of the face material.
5.    The roll is cut into narrower rolls.
6.    Rolls of pressure-sensitive linerless material are market-ready.

By controlling the entire manufacturing process, label printers and converters can ensure their products meet their clients' exact specifications, including:

•    Adequate and precise coat weight, in accordance with the final application.
•    Compatibility of label rolls with printers/applicators for clean dispensing.
•    Good adherence of the labels on the substrate.
•    Ability to print on both sides of the facestock because printing precedes the coating step.

Investing in the future

Given the myriad of advantages, more and more industry players are proving how manufacturing linerless labels is a smart, long-term investment. Not only does it enable label converters to diversify their product portfolio, but it also helps them serve existing clients better, and attract new business across multiple markets. With their wealth of experience and valuable insights, ETI is ready to assist label converters in maximizing their potential. Are you equipped to tap into the booming linerless label market?

Are you equipped to tap into the booming linerless label market? 
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