A1 Label invests in ETI Technology

Boucherville, Quebec—One of the major label printers in Canada has invested in in-line silicone and adhesive coating equipment from ETI. The savings in PS material for the production of prime labels convinced A1 Label to purchase an ETI coating line (Cohesio). With the equipment, A1 Label has experienced 30 percent to 50 percent savings in various PS laminate.

The ETI technology gives opportunities to the printers to be more independent and to print on reverse before coating the adhesive. This technology, is more and more popular in high-value-added labels for beverage, wine, beer, food, and personal care. More than 50 companies in the world are using this technology to improve their business performances.

This new way to make labels modifies the competitive environment in the label industry, says Francois Bayzelon, president of ETI. “There are two types of label printers: the decorators and the label makers.” According to Bayzelon, some people prefer to stay with the traditional value chain, buying PS material at the market price and make a “me-too” products, while others are willing to manufacture PS in-house and realize the margins they had 20 years ago.

“It is not a coincidence that major suppliers in wine labels, including the world leader, have invested in this equipment”, said Catherine Leveille, ETI marketing manager.

Recently, a major beer label manufacturer in China, a new player in pressure sensitive labels, installed the equipment and supplied a worldwide distributed beer brand.