IML is expanding the market for eye-catching packaging By Nancy D. Lamontagne The cost savings and increased decorative possibilities available with in mold labeling (IML) are making it an increasingly popular option for packaging decoration around the world. With In Mold Labeling, a pre-printed label is placed in the mold so that package shaping and decoration—in the form of a permanently adhered label—are performed in a single production step. By eliminating a separate decorating step, this approach offers shorter production time and lower production costs. With In Mold Labeling, it’s not necessary to store or transport blank, unlabeled products, and thick-walled containers can be replaced with thinner-walled ones, cutting down on material use. Because in-mold labels are typically made of the same material as the container, the entire unit is fully recyclable. In-mold labels are very durable. They resist scratching, cannot crack, and don’t wrinkle, while also resisting humidity and large swings in temperature—properties that are particularly advantageous for frozen or refrigerated products. A Growing Market The variety of surface finishes and photo-quality printing is attracting more and more brand owners to In Mold Labeling(IML) as
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