LABEL PRINTERS
CONTINUED
Main solutions Currently, the main solutions for label printing are static, on-site, colour inkjet label printers, says Gavin. “These provide on-demand labelling, which eliminate the downtime of waiting for outsourced labels while cutting the waste of those not used, and generally provide business greater control and flexibility around their label production.” Deyon Antoine, product manager at Toshiba Tec adds that solutions can consist of any combination of printing solutions as no two operations are the same. “The factors that dictate suitability are daily volume, speed, label size, label material and connectivity,” he says. “Printing solutions must be adaptable to suit the customers’ requirements, and as such Toshiba Tec provide several solutions that are able to stand up to the working conditions of a busy warehouse or distribution centre.” Getting into the market For resellers looking at getting into this space, while Gavin notes that there is an established market of auto ID resellers within warehousing and distribution, it doesn’t mean there’s no scope for new entrants, particularly in the current economic climate. “During the pandemic we faced the sudden demand overnight for test-kit boxes, each with specific label identity requirements,” he notes. “Those prioritising adaptability, environmental sustainability and close collaboration with customers and third parties are future proofing their proposition in this market.” Deyon adds that resellers will need the backing of a manufacturer that has the experience and solution for the marketplace, and one that offers a consultative approach to recommend the right solutions for the end users’ application. A consultative approach is also needed with customers for those already operating in the market, Gavin adds. “Labelling is like a business’s own fingerprint and often requires a collaborative approach, particularly with
independent software vendors to help meet each business’s own specific requirements,” he says. Deyon agrees: “It is key to understand the customer’s business and where they need to get to support their future business; no two customers are the same.” Future prospects With online sales set to grow even further in the coming years, demand for label printers is also set to continue to grow. But there are other trends in the market that are developing, according to Deyon. “Static barcode label printers and consumable sales are still an essential element of any warehouse operation or despatch process, but we are seeing a move towards automation, to increase product delivery, improve efficiency, address staffing shortages and reduce costs,” he says. He adds there are low-cost entry points into automated print and apply systems on the market. “We are also seeing more and more direct part coding/marking, as people look for sustainable solutions and minimised packaging, solutions like liner less printing which can help customers take the first steps towards a more environmentally conscious printing solution,” says Deyon. “There is also growth in the printing of on-demand colour labels, for branding and personalising packaging. These offer a low- cost alternative to purchasing large quantities of pre-printed labels and the associated costs or making, transporting and storing. “As more retailers are shipping online, it is more important that the goods shipped give a good representation of the brand – trends towards coloured and logo branded labels.” With these trends set to continue for some time, there will be plenty of opportunities – especially as it is still a developing market, so new and better products will also come to replace older models.
Deyon Antoine, product manager, Toshiba Tec
toshibatec.co.uk
It is key to understand the customer’s business and where they need to get to support their future business; no two customers are the same. “
”
34
Powered by FlippingBook