Label and Packaging Trends for 2023

As 2022 draws to a close, businesses are looking to stay on top of any upcoming trends. The label and packaging business is no exception, and with 2023 looming on the horizon, it’s more important than ever to know what to expect. Here are five trends to keep an eye on in 2023:

1) Eco-Friendly Labels

Environmental awareness has seen a massive increase in the past few years. As a result, many consumers are looking for eco-friendly label options. These include biodegradable or compostable labels, linerless labels (which cut down on unnecessary waste) and labels made from recycled materials. Making use of these “green” label options doesn’t just reduce your business’s environmental footprint, it also shows your customers that you’re environmentally conscious.

2) Growing E-Commerce

One of the major changes brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic was the sudden increase in e-commerce. This trend has only grown with each passing year, with consumers purchasing everything from groceries to makeup to pharmaceutical products online. With such a high demand for e-commerce, there’s an equally high demand for durable shipping labels, updated shipment security and package tracking software.

3) Digital Printing

There are two main types of label printing: flexographic and digital. Flexographic printing requires a flexo plate, while digital printing prints directly onto substrates using ink toner.

Because digital printing allows you to send artwork directly to the printer as a digital file, it’s much more versatile when printing logos and designs. This, along with quick turnaround times and low setup costs, has contributed to the rise in digital printing popularity. If you’re looking to improve your printing flexibility and label customization in the new year, this is the trend for capitalize on.

4) Increased Demand for Custom Labels

Label personalization options are on the rise, and will likely continue to progress in the coming year. This increase has led to an increased demand for custom labels, with generic labels falling to the wayside. Customized labels can set a product apart and help contribute to a unique brand experience, making them a powerful branding tool.

5) Increased Automation

At first, automation was a way for businesses to handle labor shortages and supply chain issues. However, as technology has progressed, automation and semi-automation have become a vital part of many businesses. Automated processes, once properly integrated, lead to fewer errors and quicker turnaround rates, helping to keep workflow as smooth as possible. While it may be some time before businesses are fully automatic, even something as simple as automatic labeling can drastically increase efficiency.

Label Supplies at Barcode Factory

If you’re looking to keep up with 2023’s label trends, look no further than Barcode Factory. We offer a wide variety of both blank and pre-printed labels, including eco-friendly linerless labels. No matter the size, shape, color or adhesive, Barcode Factory has what you need. If you can’t find what you want among our stock options, we also offer custom label printing at affordable prices. Browse our label inventory here or contact us today and have one of our certified experts guide you to the perfect label for your business.