Labels play a bigger role than many realise: from product packaging and logistics to compliance and customer information. For years, businesses relied on pre-printed label stock, ordering rolls in bulk to keep operations moving. But that approach often leads to waste, higher costs and reduced flexibility.
On-demand label printing is transforming the way organisations handle labelling. By printing labels only when and where they’re needed, businesses gain more control and cut down on inefficiencies.
The Problem with Pre-Printed Labels
While pre-printed stock may once have been the norm, it comes with a series of drawbacks:
- Limited flexibility: Any design change, such as a new logo, regulation update or seasonal promotion, requires new stock.
- Waste and storage: Rolls of unused labels often gather dust in storage, particularly if products or branding change before they’re used.
- High costs: Businesses often have to commit to bulk orders to make pre-printed labels cost effective, tying up capital unnecessarily.
- Slow response times: If demand shifts suddenly, waiting on a new order of pre-printed labels can delay production or shipping.
The Benefits of On-Demand Printing
Switching to on-demand label printing solves these challenges while unlocking new advantages:
- Flexibility: Print only the labels you need, in real-time. Whether it’s a single item or a large batch, you’re in control.
- Reduced waste: No more bins filled with outdated stock — you print exactly what’s required.
- Cost efficiency: Instead of over-ordering, you save on storage and disposal costs while streamlining your supply chain.
- Improved accuracy: On-demand printing allows you to customise labels instantly with barcodes, expiry dates, batch numbers or shipping information.
- Sustainability: By reducing waste and only using the materials you need, your business becomes more eco-friendly.
Industry Applications
On-demand label printing is already proving invaluable across a wide range of sectors:
- Retail: Seasonal promotions and price changes can be applied instantly.
- Healthcare: Patient wristbands, medication labels and laboratory samples can be printed on the spot for maximum accuracy.
- Logistics: Shipping labels are generated in real-time, helping ensure smooth delivery operations.
- Manufacturing: Compliance information and traceability data can be updated dynamically to meet regulations.
The Technology Behind the Shift
Modern on-demand label printers, such as EPSON ColorWorks and industrial barcode printers, are designed to deliver high-speed, high-quality results, even in demanding environments. When combined with the right software, they seamlessly integrate into your workflow, whether in the warehouse, retail floor or hospital ward.
Future-Proofing Your Business
As customer expectations grow and regulations evolve, flexibility will only become more important. Businesses that adopt on-demand label printing now can stay one step ahead, cutting costs while improving service and compliance.
At Bar Code Data, we work with leading manufacturers like Zebra Technologies to provide reliable, scalable on-demand printing solutions that fit the needs of every industry.
Ready to explore the benefits of on-demand label printing for your organisation? Get in touch with our expert team today.