In the world of label printing challenges, having smarter vendors makes a significant difference. Anderson & Vreeland is a prime example of how a knowledgeable vendor can benefit customers.
Label Printing Challenges in Harsh Environments
Some labels face incredibly harsh conditions, such as those affixed to engine blocks for a major diesel engine manufacturer. After application, these labels endure a coating of greasy rust inhibitor to protect against the corrosive salt air during transoceanic shipping. Once the engine blocks arrive at their destination, they are subjected to high-pressure washes with solvents and hot, soapy water.
Throughout this process, the labels must remain intact and wrinkle-free to ensure seamless scanning by barcode readers. Meeting these stringent demands necessitates significant engineering and a deep understanding of materials and adhesives. Such expertise is integral to every job at American Label and Tag (ALT), a Canton, Michigan-based specialist in producing technically demanding labels for various industries, including airlines, appliances, automotive, chemical, electronics, food and beverage, pharmaceutical, retail, and entertainment.
Engineering Solutions for Label Printing Challenges
“All the labels we produce are high-tech, industrial-strength labels that must stay attached throughout the manufacturing process and during normal usage in diverse environments,” explains Paul Gubbins, IT Manager and a 23-year veteran in industrial label production at ALT. “They’re all complex labels that require extensive engineering and testing.”
Certain labels, like pharmaceutical ones, present unique label printing challenges. Pharmaceutical labels must comply with FDA standards, operate on specialized lines at converters, and include multiple layers of security. Producing and handling these labels poses a real challenge because accuracy is critical; they must be perfect every time.
Collaborating to Tackle Label Printing Challenges
“For every label, our customers conduct preliminary engineering and specify certain characteristics. We then explain what can realistically be achieved and collaborate to make it work,” says Gubbins. “While we have expertise in materials, substrates, and adhesives, we also recognize our limitations and often turn to Anderson & Vreeland for assistance.”
Gubbins emphasizes the importance of attentive, personalized service in overcoming label printing challenges. He sought a partner capable of providing not only product support but also the expertise and technical knowledge to fill any gaps ALT might have. “Our customers expect us to be label experts, and we rely on A&V to provide the best support possible. Much of what we know about the latest materials, adhesives, and printing technology comes from Anderson & Vreeland.”
Vital Support for Success
The support provided by A&V is crucial, according to Gubbins. “The A&V team maintains consistent communication, often stopping by to engage with our operations staff and offering low-key updates on products and technology. They assist us with fingerprinting presses, color curves, and all necessary technical support.”
ALT has also adopted products from A&V partner companies like Hybrid Software, GMG, and Screen to address label printing challenges more efficiently than solutions from other providers. “Hybrid, GMG, and Screen have all offered the same high level of support we receive from A&V,” Gubbins shares. “This enables us to push boundaries further, providing more capabilities for our customers.”
Building Synergy
Gubbins appreciates how A&V representatives listen to ALT’s needs and recognize that solving problems for his company often aids A&V in addressing challenges for other clients. This synergy benefits both companies as they learn from one another. “Having smarter vendors is advantageous for us, and Anderson & Vreeland exemplifies how such a partnership can enhance customer outcomes.”
By navigating label printing challenges with the help of Anderson & Vreeland, American Label and Tag continues to excel in producing technically demanding labels, ensuring they meet industry standards and customer expectations.