Cutting Waste, Not Corners: The Case for Linerless Labels

Pressure-sensitive labels have been an indispensable part of modern packaging for nearly a century. They are effective, economical, and incredibly versatile, serving countless industries from logistics to quick-service restaurants (QSR). Yet, there’s a significant drawback that often goes unnoticed: for every label used, a substantial amount of material is immediately discarded.

Roughly 50% of a traditional pressure-sensitive label, comprising its release liner and matrix, becomes waste the moment the label is applied. In a business environment where operational efficiency is paramount and environmental regulations are becoming stricter, this level of waste is no longer sustainable. That’s why at Avery Dennison, we are applying our global capacity for innovation to help move the packaging industry—and the many businesses it serves—toward a linerless future.

The Hidden Cost of Traditional Labels

Pressure-sensitive adhesive labels (PS labels) have long been the industry standard. Their ease of use and reliability made them a go-to solution for branding, tracking, and information sharing. However, the reliance on a silicone-coated release liner creates significant operational and environmental challenges.

Every roll of traditional labels generates an equal-sized roll of waste that must be managed and disposed of, often ending up in a landfill. This process adds to your business’s carbon footprint and incurs disposal costs. Furthermore, discarded liners can create slip hazards in busy work environments like warehouses and kitchens, posing a safety risk to employees.

Introducing a Smarter, More Sustainable Solution

Linerless labels represent the next evolution in labelling technology. By eliminating the release liner entirely, they address the core inefficiencies of traditional PS labels head-on. This innovative design offers a host of benefits that align with the goals of modern, forward-thinking businesses.

Drastically Reduce Waste and Boost Sustainability

The most immediate benefit of switching to linerless labels is the dramatic reduction in waste. With no liner to discard, you can significantly shrink your environmental footprint and align your operations with ambitious sustainability goals. This isn’t just good for the planet; it’s a powerful message to your customers, who increasingly prefer to support eco-conscious brands.

Enhance Operational Efficiency

Imagine fitting up to 60% more labels on a single roll. With linerless technology, that’s a reality. The absence of a liner means labels can be wound more tightly, maximising the use of space. This translates to fewer roll changes, which reduces machine downtime and boosts productivity. It also means less storage space is needed for your label inventory and fewer shipments are required, lowering your logistics costs and associated emissions.

Improve Workplace Safety

Discarded release liners on the floor are a common but preventable workplace hazard. By switching to linerless labels, you eliminate this risk entirely, creating a safer environment for your team. This simple change can help reduce accidents and demonstrate a commitment to employee well-being.

Versatility for Every Industry

Avery Dennison’s linerless labels are designed to meet the diverse needs of various sectors, including logistics, ecommerce, retail, and QSR.

• For Logistics and Ecommerce: High-resolution printing ensures excellent barcode scannability, maintaining accuracy and efficiency throughout the supply chain.
• For QSR and Retail: With options for permanent, removable, and hotmelt adhesives, our labels perform reliably in a range of temperatures and applications, from food packaging to price marking.

Your Partner in Innovation

Making the switch to a new labelling system can seem daunting, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. As a leading pressure-sensitive labels manufacturer, Avery Dennison has the expertise to guide you through a seamless transition. We provide the technical support and innovative products needed to help you cut waste without cutting corners on quality or performance.

Step into a Linerless Future

The case is clear. Linerless labels offer a superior alternative to traditional pressure-sensitive labels by enhancing efficiency, improving safety, and championing sustainability. It’s a simple change that delivers significant, measurable benefits across your entire operation.

Ready to reduce waste and drive efficiency in your business? Contact Avery Dennison today to learn more about our innovative linerless label solutions.