There are a number of key steps you can take to minimize the cost and maximize the success of your label printing job. Above all else, you need to determine the right printing method. There are two primary label printing methods in today’s industry – digital and flexographic – and the method that will serve you best depends on a number of key factors pertaining to the specifics of your project. Here is a breakdown of the key advantages of both digital and flexographic printing to help determine which will have the best overall impact on your print job.
Digital printing
Digital printing is the more modern of the two primary printing methods and is not too dissimilar from how you’d print a document off your desktop computer. Digital printers are capable of producing higher-resolution images and provide your job with a tremendous amount of flexibility. You can run small, highly customized jobs at a low cost and on a tight timeline, setting specific parameters to meet your exact needs. You can make tweaks at a moment’s notice without needing to worry about additional setup. This versatility makes digital printing perfect for variable data, coupons, booklets, and any project where each label needs to feature one or more unique components. The minimal setup required results in a quick turnaround time and a cost-effective option for short runs.
Flexographic printing
The flexographic printing process is more traditional and is similar to that of the original printing press, with an image essentially being stamped onto a surface as it runs through a production line. Despite this longer history, flexo still presents a highly effective and efficient method for printing quality labels. Production speed is the key advantage of flexo, as it can produce more products at a lower operating cost to maximize your overall profit. There is also no in-between work required – you simply set up the project, run the job, and receive your final product. This process makes flexographic printing best suited for large-scale jobs where customization is not as detailed or unique. It may take longer to set up these jobs, but they’ll run faster once that stage is complete. Flexo works on a wide variety of substrates, including films, foil, acetate, and more. It can be used for almost any type of material, from films and metallic materials to paper and beyond. As the quantity of labels in the project increases, the cost per label decreases. For a large-scale job where efficiency is essential, flexographic printing is the best option.
Lofton Label’s complete digital and flexographic printing capabilities
Lofton Label & Packaging specializes in both digital and flexographic printing capabilities and is here to help your business determine which method is right to ensure the best outcome for your project. No matter the size or scope of your project or the type of label needed, we have the expertise and technology to deliver lasting ROI. Contact us today to take your brand to the next level through unmatched label design, development, printing, and more.
