2016 was an innovative year. For example, there were booming sales of virtual reality headsets, drones, dehydration detectors, the hands-free Amazon Echo, and nearly 100 other
new innovations hit the market. Many of us have come to terms with the fact that there really isn’t anything technology won’t try to master. And let’s not forget about the labeling industry. When it comes to
machine applied labels, the future of labels just keeps getting brighter.
So, to highlight some of the top labelling innovations in the recent year, let’s take a few minutes to reflect on some of the labelling industry’s biggest surprises of 2016.
Technical Innovations In The Labelling Industry
Technology can do so many wonderful things—even when it comes to improving the labelling industry.
· Braille labels/bump labels that help shoppers who are visually-impaired
·
Smart labels that reduce food spoilage and fight counterfeiting
· Tri-Panel Product Labels to let companies display even more crucial product information
Machine Applied Labels For Gen Z Shoppers
While many shoppers still prefer printed labels versus electronic labels, there are plenty of benefits to electronic labels that companies should take advantage of, especially if they want to reach millennial shoppers—who happen to be some of the most influential shoppers of today!
· QR codes
· Smartphone apps that improve the consumer shopping experience
· Money-saving apps like Cartwheel, SnipSnip, and Grocery IQ that let consumers scan product labels while shopping to save money during check-out
Luxurious Labels That Stand Out
It takes a creative and unique label to stand out in a crowd, especially on a crowded shelf in major supermarkets or retail stores. These innovative product labels can help to give your labels the visual appeal they need to shine:
·
Metallic, foil labels
· MotionCoat
· Embossing
Simple Packaging Techniques
When it comes to natural products, minimal is ideal. Turns out, clear product labels and eco-friendly product labels are just getting even more popular as time goes on!
·
Clear product labels
·
Eco-friendly product labels Sustainable Packaging
As more people become environmentally-conscious shoppers, the need for sustainable packaging will continue to grow.
· Biodegradable or edible product packaging
· Recyclable and reusable materials
· Wine in a can—smaller portions for less waste
· Plant-based packaging materials
Labelling Rules And Regulations
And finally—there have been some major breakthroughs in the nutrition industry in 2016 as well. For example, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) passed a mandatory GMO labelling law in the state of Vermont, which could mean that other states are only shortly behind. Additionally, more and more businesses are opting to become a
Non-GMO Project Verified Business.
Also new in 2016 was the FDA’s major decision to ban the use of
triclosan and triclocarban from all antibacterial soaps. Companies are also required to list any additional food additives on their FDA labels.
To stay on top of the latest nutrition label trends and innovations, and to ensure that you don’t miss any new rules and regulations from the FDA, be sure to follow our Sticky Notes Blog!
2017 Brings More Success
With so many positive changes taking place in the technology and labelling industries throughout 2016, there will surely be even more success in the 2017 year. To ensure that your business finds the same success in the New Year, look for machine applied labels that truly stand out in a crowd and hold out in the harshest temperatures and conditions. SheetLabels.com has just the thing your company needs to thrive in the 2017 year.
To learn more about our sheet labels, rolled labels, cut-to-size labels, magnets, flyers, and other promotional products, please contact us today.