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Market Overview

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The Print & Apply Labeling and Labeling Equipment Market is projected to experience substantial growth during the forecast period, from USD 4,795 million in 2023 to USD 5,894 million by 2028, representing a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.21%.

Over the years, labels and packaging solutions have evolved significantly in their role for product management. Modern consumers now have a greater ability to understand the contents of the products they intend to purchase, leading to increased demand for automatic labeling equipment. In response to this trend, leading manufacturers are continuously innovating their products by incorporating next-generation technology trends.

An example of such innovation can be seen in NOVEXX Solutions, which introduced a print & apply system in November 2019. This system is designed for various applications, boasting a compact design and intuitive operation. It is also equipped with IoT connectivity, multiple digital interfaces, and real-time data acquisition capabilities. Notably, the system features a multi-stage, configurable I/O concept. The integration of connected systems into automatic labeling machines is anticipated to be a prevailing trend during the forecast period.

According to Packaging World News, there is a growing preference among end-users for RFID (radio frequency identification) labeling solutions, which now accounts for nearly one-fourth of the global market for labeling equipment’s revenue. However, the high cost of automatic labeling machines remains a significant obstacle to the market’s growth. Particularly for smaller batches, where labeling costs become economically less feasible.

Notably, the FDA has relaxed nutrition labeling regulations, a move that is expected to boost the distribution of packaged foods by restaurant operators and optimize the supply chain of products to consumers. Additionally, the food safety testing and processing industries are expected to operate at full capacity due to consumers stockpiling goods during the COVID-19 lockdown.

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Market Segmentation

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The market is segmented based on various factors, including technology, type, end-user industry, and geography.

Segmentation by Technology
Automatic
Semi-automatic
Manual

Segmentation by Type
Pressure Sensitive/Self-Adhesive Label
Shrink Sleeve Label
Glue Based Label
In-Mold Label and Other Types

Segmentation by End-user Industry
Pharmaceutical
Food and Beverages
Personal Care and Household Care
Other End-user Verticals

Segmentation by Geography
North America
Europe
Asia Pacific
Latin America
Middle East and Africa

In 2022, pressure-sensitive/self-adhesive labelers accounted for the largest market share of 35.46%, with a value of USD 1,710 million. This segment is projected to reach USD 2,032 million by 2028, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3.60% over the forecast period. Pressure-sensitive labels (PSL) are composed of five layers, including liner, release coat, adhesive, face stock, and topcoat, functioning similarly to high-tech stickers. These labels offer versatility, using materials like paper, film, and foil, and can produce vibrant colors using various inks. Their self-adhesive properties enable easy application without the need for additional activation agents like heat, solvents, or water. As a result, pressure-sensitive labels provide vivid colors for various applications, striking a balance between cost-effectiveness and premium brand appeal. Notably, PSLs constitute more than 80% of all labels in the market, according to the Resource Label Group and its subsidiaries.

Regarding technology, the automatic segment held the largest market share of 89.99% in 2022, valued at USD 4,337.66 million. By 2028, it is expected to reach USD 5,355.26 million, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.41% over the forecast period. The increasing demand for advanced technology and the need for efficient production to meet consumer demands are driving the sales of automatic print & apply labeling and labeling equipment. Brands are particularly focused on reducing costs resulting from human errors, thus promoting the adoption of automatic machines. These automated systems minimize errors that might occur with manual or semi-automatic machines, offering high performance, cost-effectiveness, and long service life, making them highly desirable across various industries. The adoption of high-speed automatic machines for printing and labeling has seen significant growth, driven by increased demand for packaged food, personal care products, and pharmaceuticals.

In terms of end-user vertical, the food and beverages segment accounted for the largest share of 51.85% in 2022, valued at USD 2,500 million. It is expected to reach USD 3,074 million by 2028, with a CAGR of 4.34% over the forecast period. The heightened interest of consumers and brands in food and beverage labels, along with strict food labeling regulations, is driving the market growth for print-and-apply labeling and labeling equipment. With the expansion of the global food trade, there is an increasing need to standardize food labeling to ensure easy understanding by consumers in different countries. Additionally, the rising consumption of packaged food and beverages has led to a higher demand for accurate product and brand information, further fueling the need for print-and-apply labeling solutions. Regulatory bodies such as the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the European Food Standards Agency (EFSA) have imposed strict regulations on food safety and packaging, contributing to the increased demand for labeling equipment.

Regarding geography, Asia-Pacific held the largest market share of 40.05% in 2022, valued at USD 1,931 million. By 2028, it is projected to reach USD 2,460 million, with a CAGR of 5.11% over the forecast period. The growth in the Asia-Pacific region is primarily driven by the expanding urban population, resulting in increased demand for packaged food, easy access to polymer films, and a cost-effective labor pool. The region is witnessing significant expansion in the use of shrink and stretch sleeves as economical options for intricate container designs, particularly in Southeast Asia’s price-sensitive market. Moreover, the rise in consumption of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), food and beverage products, and personal care items is driving the demand for high-speed and high-quality labeling solutions and packaging in the food industry. The stringent regulations imposed by the Chinese government on product import and export, coupled with the growth of the pharmaceutical industry in China, have further fueled the demand for labeling machines in the region. The automation trend in the food and beverage industry and the growth of the packaging sector across various industries are also contributing factors to the increasing demand for labeling equipment in the Asia-Pacific region.

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Competitive Landscape

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The print and apply labeling and labeling equipment market exhibits a fragmented structure, featuring prominent players such as SIDEL (Tetra Laval Group), Sacmi Imola SC, Krones AG, Kunshan Bojin Trading Co. Ltd., and other industry participants. To gain a sustainable competitive advantage, these players are strategically employing measures such as partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions to enhance their product offerings.

In October 2022, Axon introduced innovative tamper-evident banding and shrink-sleeve labeling solutions. The newly launched HydroTechTB tamper-evident band applicator by Axon offers several advantages compared to similar products available in the market. Its patented film-delivery system significantly reduces rework caused by missed bands. Additionally, the applicator’s ergonomic design allows workers to splice film while it is running and access the film reel from their side, facilitating quick and efficient changeovers with minimal downtime.

In July 2022, German tight-head drum specialist, Duttenhofer, invested in an integrated solution from Herma to provide traceability for drums containing chemicals. The solution comprises labels for QR codes and a print-and-apply system, ensuring proper identification and tracking. Duttenhofer has been utilizing Herma’s labeling solution for a considerable period and expresses satisfaction with both the technology and the label material, which complies with VPA 9 regulations.

Key companies profiled in this report include Sidel (Tetra Laval Group), Sacmi Imola SC, KHS Gmbh (salzgitter Klöckner-werke Gmbh), Kunshan Bojin Trading Co. Ltd, Worldpack Automation Systems, Etiquette Labels Ltd, Novexx Solutions Gmbh, Axon LLC, PDC International Corporation, Heuft Systemtechnik Gmbh, Herma Gmbh, Weber Marking Systems Gmbh, Quadrel Labeling Systems, CECLE Machine, Wuxi Sici Auto Co. Ltd, Marchesini Group SPA.

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Recent Industry Developments

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In September 2022, Markem-Imaje introduced the eTouch-S intelligent print and apply labeling system, specifically designed to address consumer demand for reduced environmental impact. The eTouch-S was developed with a focus on sustainability right from its inception. Notably, this innovative system eliminates the need for plant air without compromising supply chain traceability or increasing the risk of retailer fines for returned cases.

In May 2022, JUB Group, one of Europe’s leading producers of paints and renderings, made a significant investment by purchasing three Herma 500 applicators for its in-house manufacturing process. The primary goal was to achieve precise labeling for their products, despite the challenging requirements of handling weight, intricate shapes, and large labels. The implementation of three HERMA 500 applicators on a labeling machine demonstrated exceptional accuracy, even during dynamic process changes while labeling. Elmed, a longstanding sales and service partner of HERMA in southeast Europe, played a crucial role in developing and executing this successful labeling solution for JUB Group.

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Key Questions Answered

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What is the study period of the Print and Apply Labeling and Labeling Equipment Market?
The Print and Apply Labeling and Labeling Equipment Market has been studied from 2018 to 2028.

What is the growth rate of the Print and Apply Labeling and Labeling Equipment Market?
The Print and Apply Labeling and Labeling Equipment Market is experiencing a growth rate of 4.21% over the next 5 years.

What is the Print and Apply Labeling and Labeling Equipment Market size?
The Print and Apply Labeling and Labeling Equipment Market is expected to reach USD 4,795 million in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.21% to reach USD 5,894 million by 2028.

Which region has the highest growth rate in the Print and Apply Labeling and Labeling Equipment Market?
The Asia Pacific region is witnessing the highest CAGR over the period 2018-2028.

Which region has the largest share in the Print and Apply Labeling and Labeling Equipment Market?
As of 2022, the Asia Pacific region holds the highest market share.

Who are the key players in the Print and Apply Labeling and Labeling Equipment Market?
The major companies operating in the Print and Apply Labeling and Labeling Equipment Market are SIDEL (Tetra Laval Group), Sacmi Imola S.C., KHS GmbH, Kunshan Bojin Trading Co., Ltd, and Worldpack Automation Systems.