Ever found yourself pondering at the grocery store not just what’s inside the can but the can itself? At ALNA, we do – all the time. So let’s pop the lid off the vibrant world of can printing.
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In the beverage industry, the choice between traditional, digital, and shrink-sleeved can printing is becoming as pivotal as the contents they hold. Let’s uncork this topic and see what’s brewing with these diverse printing techniques.

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At a glance

The Details Behind the Prints

Traditional Printing is all about reliability for large runs. Tested and trusted, it delivers high-quality results. Although the most advanced digital printing can come close, it often requires navigating a sea of trial and error and staying prepared for constant upgrades.

Digital Printing has introduced a world of flexibility with lower MOQs and the ability to swiftly change designs. In today's world, with tools like MidJourney and generative AI, creativity is at everyone's fingertips. Given that most consumers won't scrutinize a can for minutes on end in the store (unless they’re us!), the minor differences in print quality between traditional and digital are often less critical than we might think. People are drawn to what’s sparkly and colorful, making digital a strong contender.

Shrink-Sleeved Cans offer full-color graphics that are particularly suited for vibrant vector designs, which maximize the visual impact better than high-resolution photos. While they have moderate minimum order quantities and require less trial and error than digital options, their use of plastic is a significant drawback. This environmental concern has led to usage restrictions, including a ban in Quebec.

Which to Choose? It Depends…

It’s the classic marketer’s answer but hear us out.

Digital printing is the cool kid on the block – flexible, modern, and perfect for brands that thrive on customization. Think about your mobile data plan. Sure, $45 for 50GB sounds great, but what if you only use 10GB? That's where digital printing shines. It’s like opting for a lower usage plan that perfectly fits your needs – no more, no less. If you don’t need a gazillion cans, why pay for them? Digital printing lets brands order just what they need, making it a go-to for anyone from startups to big players looking to jazz up their seasonal promotions.

Yet, traditional printing isn’t going anywhere. It’s reliable, cost-effective for large batches, and has a certain je ne sais quoi that many established brands still trust. Shrink-sleeved cans, while offering unmatched design possibilities, remind us of the balance we must strike between aesthetics and environmental impact.

Let's Wrap It Up

Whether you’re a craft brewery looking to stand out with a limited-edition design, a startup experimenting with dynamic market strategies, or a beverage giant needing millions of cans, there’s a printing solution that fits. At ALNA, we’re here to guide you through these choices, ensuring your cans look as good as the beverages inside taste.

Ready to explore more about how your brand can benefit from the latest in can printing technology? Contact us today at and let's make your can the canniest on the shelf.
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Shrink Sleeve vs. Wraparound Labels

In the world of product packaging, choosing the right label is a crucial decision that can impact both the aesthetics and functionality of a product. Two popular options are shrink sleeves and wraparound labels. Each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Shrink sleeve labels

Shrink sleeves are labels made from a material that contracts when exposed to heat, creating a snug fit around the product container.

Pros:

• 360-degree branding: Shrink sleeves offer the unique advantage of providing 360-degree coverage of the product container. This allows for more extensive branding opportunities and eye-catching designs.
• Conformity to shapes: Shrink sleeves easily conform to the shape of the container, making them suitable for products with irregular shapes or contours.
• Tamper-evident: The heat-shrinking process creates a tamper-evident seal, providing an added layer of security for the product. Consumers can easily identify whether a product has been opened or tampered with.

Cons:

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• Production costs: The manufacturing process of shrink sleeves can be more complex and expensive compared to other labeling options. Businesses need to weigh the increased production costs against the benefits of enhanced branding.
• Environmental impact: Shrink sleeves are often made from materials that may not be easily recyclable, contributing to environmental concerns. Companies with a strong focus on sustainability may want to consider alternative options.

Wraparound labels

Wraparound labels, also known as pressure-sensitive labels, are applied to the product container by pressure rather than heat. These labels come on rolls and are typically made of paper or film.

Pros:

• Cost-effective production: Wraparound labels are generally more cost-effective to produce compared to shrink sleeves. This makes them an attractive option for businesses looking to maintain a balance between cost and visual appeal.
• Printing options: Wraparound labels allow for various printing techniques, including digital and flexographic printing, providing businesses with flexibility in achieving their desired look.
• Recyclability: Many wraparound labels are made from materials that are easily recyclable, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers and businesses.

Cons:

• Limited coverage: Unlike shrink sleeves, wraparound labels may not offer complete 360-degree coverage. This limitation can affect the overall design possibilities and branding potential, especially on containers with irregular shapes.
• Application challenges: Achieving a smooth and uniform application of wraparound labels can be challenging, particularly on containers with contours or recessed areas. High quality Quadrel applicators are crucial for a professional appearance.

Common label applications

The choice between shrink sleeves and wraparound labels ultimately depends on the specific requirements of the product and brand. Here are some considerations for different applications:

• Beverage industry: Shrink sleeves are popular in the beverage industry for their ability to showcase vibrant graphics on contoured bottles. Wraparound labels, however, may be suitable for products with simpler container shapes, like wine bottles.
• Personal care products: Shrink sleeves are often preferred for personal care products, offering a sleek and visually appealing packaging solution.
• Food packaging: Both shrink sleeves and wraparound labels can be used for food packaging, depending on the product type. Shrink sleeves provide a tamper-evident seal, while wraparound labels offer cost-effective options.

The choice between shrink sleeves and wraparound labels is a decision that should align with the unique needs and goals of a business. Careful consideration of branding objectives, production costs and environmental impact will help you make an informed choice.

Quadrel offers both pressure-sensitive and shrink sleeve label applicators. To learn more about our labeling systems, reach out to our support staff today.

For more Good Gloss Shrink Filminformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.