30 Jan
Shrink Sleeves

Print Tech That Meets Marketing’s Vision and Operations’ Tolerance.

If had to write a marketing strategy, I would highlight “Packaging” as the 5th P of marketing. For me, packaging is a crucial part not just of the product or marketing, but also of the organisation’s identity—something we can’t take for granted. Unfortunately, this is not the case for everyone. I have seen situations where people push packaging to the edge. For me, packaging is a priority. For every startup, I would recommend strategizing packaging beforehand to ensure the product stands out.

I have learned this through 19 years of extensive experience, and my four books deal with different packaging aspects and best practices. Through them, I aim to promote the correct ways of packaging. I highly recommend reading my latest book, “20 Things I Learnt from the World’s Top Packaging Professionals,” for deeper insights.

A long-term strategy—like a marketing vision for packaging—cannot be decided in the first go. You need to explore the best option for your product, and for this, you must try suitable packaging technologies. This isn’t as tough as it sounds. Operation Tolerance in shrink sleeve packaging is largely termed for Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) & Timelines. Let’s take types of printing technologies one by one to understand it. We’ll take baby steps to know these.

First one is Rotogravure Printing technologies that uses engraved cylinders to hold ink, transferring it onto flexible materials for high-quality, long-run printing. It is known for excellent colors and detail at high speeds. It is usually best suited for brands who wanted to go for high quantity shrink sleeve printing with good quality and budget. Big FMCG or CPG brands always opt gravure printing. It helps them to save their resources with best results.

Second one CI Flexo Printing machine offers stable, high-speed, consistent quality for long runs on flexible packaging, typically using solvent/water-based inks. Offers excellent color registration, and fast speeds for flexible packaging and labels. Best use for high MOQ packaging requirement. Established brands that do not want to wait for cylinders opt for this solutions. Price is comparable to Rotogravure.

Third is UV Flexo printing machine. High-speed, high-quality printing on diverse substrates like films, foils, and papers for labels, flexible packaging, shrink sleeves etc, offering durability, fast drying, vibrant colors, and excellent adhesion, especially for long runs and specialized finishes. Brands that prioritize short runs, for spot colors, and high-quality embellishments opt it. It is first preference of new brands or startups who wanted to create impression in market with their products.

The last and the final one is Digital Printing technology. Newest and fastest among all. Best suited for short-to-medium runs, quick turnarounds, and highly personalized jobs like customised  shrink sleeve application. It helps customer to quickly work and make it market ready. Usually opted by brands who want to test their product with low MOQ, or launch it. Those who have deadlines to make their product available to markets or for Prototype, Mock-ups, Government approvals etc. Because of its quick turn-around-time they are heavy on budget.

The product team must decide on the best printing and packaging technology only after consulting packaging partners; otherwise, a range of defects may follow. The best move is to proceed with caution. This approach secures resources and delivers better results.

To discuss similar issues, you may connect with us at info@tauruspackaging.com or call +91 9667400924.

25 Dec
Shrink Sleeves

Cut Costs, Not Corners: Shrink Sleeves That Reduce Spend and Elevate Shelf Impact

Across industries, the phrase “don’t cut corners” is used to emphasize maintaining quality even under budget constraints. Many emerging brands and start-ups often face similar challenges—limited budgets but uncompromised expectations for packaging quality. So, what is the optimal solution in such scenarios? This article provides clear direction.

With over 18 years of experience handling such requirements, I have consistently found that technical knowledge is the key to making the right decisions. My four books are a reflection of the insights gathered throughout these years. In my first book, “Sleeve it Right,” I have detailed several best practices for effective shrink-sleeve application—valuable guidance for both users and brand owners.

Returning to the core issue: when clients expect impactful packaging within a restricted budget, the first step is to understand their requirements from a technical standpoint. Each situation brings its advantages and limitations. In some case aesthetics matters, some fall short on sustainability; others meet sustainability goals but come at a higher cost.

Usually it is seen that client either go for cheap quality of substrates or sub-standard supplier. Either of two is harmful practice. It is seen that cheap quality of substrate often starts well to approve the initial production but later on fails on various parameters during longer production and during peak production time. Rejection during this peak production and lag in quality together lead to delays and sales loss which is much more than the amount saved on cheaper packaging.

I want to share the case study of a brand that started with blown PVC for printing of shrink sleeves of their product assuming that quality works fine for them. As expected the quality got rejected during the peak summers. The crisis struck worse when the production was to be used for a specific event. Poor quality and shortage of quantity lead to the poor brand reputation and financial loss, which no one want to face.

Ultimately, the goal is to deliver shrink-sleeve packaging that meets both quality expectations and budget parameters. Right idea is not to buy cheap but to opt for right quality with right price. This can be suggested by an experienced and technical packaging partner.

For technical consultations or to discuss your shrink-sleeve requirements, please contact us at info@tauruspackaging.com or call +91 9667400924.

24 Nov
Shrink Sleeves

Flexo, Gravure, or Digital? The Answer Might Surprise You.

Have you ever got puzzled with what technology to prefer in particular shrink sleeve packaging job?

Or  you forget that stark differences in output, are actually reversible and can be achieved both ways.

Sometimes basic question create big confusion. Here’s a small article that will help you revisit the standards once again. But before I start, I would suggest you to go through my book “Sleeve it Right” which gives you basic technical knowledge of shrink sleeve packaging. My other books – “5 Myths about Sustainable Shrink Sleeve, “Packaging Black Books” and 20 Things I learnt from top packaging professional” will be great technical support in your learning journey. All these are the crux of my 18+ years of packaging experience.

Shrink sleeve packaging is such dynamic industry that a small and minute printing step can make all the difference — not just in visual appeal, but also in cost-efficiency, turnaround time, and sustainability. As brands demand bolder graphics, shorter runs, and quicker lead times, packaging converters are constantly evaluating the big three contenders: Flexographic (Flexo), Gravure, and the increasingly popular Digital printing technologies.

So, which one truly leads the pack today? The answer might surprise you.

Let’s take a quick look at the contenders.

Gravure Printing: The Legacy Leader

Gravure has long been the gold standard for high-volume, premium shrink sleeve packaging. Its engraved cylinders deliver unmatched ink laydown, rich colors, and precise registration — perfect for complex graphics and large runs.

Pros:

  • Superior print quality and color consistency
  • Ideal for long runs (millions of impressions)
  • Excellent repeatability

Cons:

  • High cylinder engraving and setup costs
  • Long lead times
  • Less economical for short or frequent SKU changes

Gravure still shines for massive, consistent production — but in today’s fast-moving market, that perfection often comes at a price.

Flexo Printing: The Agile Challenger

Flexo printing has evolved dramatically in the last decade. Modern UV and solvent-based flexo presses now deliver near-gravure quality with faster setup, lower plate costs, and impressive adaptability for short to mid-sized shrink sleeve runs.

Pros:

  • Faster setup and changeovers
  • Lower plate costs than gravure cylinders
  • Compatible with a wide range of substrates
  • Eco-friendlier inks and reduced waste

Cons:

  • Can be slightly less consistent on ultra-fine detail
  • Ink density and dot gain can vary with longer runs

With the rise of shorter product lifecycles and multiple SKUs, Flexo has become the go-to for many converters looking to balance quality and agility.

Digital Printing:
Digital printing technology has significantly transformed the world of packaging, and one area where its impact is especially evident is in the production of shrink sleeves. Significant advantages in terms of flexibility, speed, and customization. They are ideal for small to medium print runs, on-demand printing, and projects that require personalized or high-quality designs.

Pros

  1. High-Quality, Detailed Graphics:
  2. Cost-Effective Short Runs:
  3. Customization and Personalization
  4. Faster Turnaround Times:
  5. Reduced waste

Cons

  1. High cost per unit for large runs
  2. Limited Color Gamut
  3. Speed for large run
  4. Inconsistent result in different substrate

Now, here’s where things get exciting. The Hybrid printing model—often combining Flexo, Digital, and Gravure elements—is redefining what’s possible in shrink sleeve packaging.

By leveraging the precision and vibrancy of gravure, the flexibility of flexo, and even the variable data capabilities of digital, hybrid presses empower converters to offer premium, customizable sleeves without compromising efficiency or cost.

Pros:

  • Seamless transitions between long and short runs
  • Enhanced color management and design freedom
  • Supports personalization, variable graphics, and limited editions
  • Reduces waste and setup times

Cons:

  • Higher initial investment
  • Requires skilled operators and color management expertise

For converters serving both global brands and niche launches, Hybrid printing – The Best of all the Three Worlds, offers a competitive edge — combining speed, sustainability, and superior shelf appeal.

The Real Surprise: It’s Not One-Size-Fits-All

The “best” technology depends on your business model, print volumes, and brand goals.

When it comes to shrink sleeve packaging, the debate between Flexo, Gravure, or Digital isn’t about replacing one with another. It’s about choosing the right tool for the right job — and, increasingly, using them in harmony to meet evolving market needs. It’s actually the Hybrid printing that wins the case.

If you still not clear about it, share me your query at info@tauruspackaging.com or call us on +91 9667400924.

13 Nov
Shrink Sleeves

Revolution has come: Trucycl (30% PCR) is now available.

I am so pleased with the blog response. This was the first time that I received simulation on my blog topic. And I am confirmed that issues I mentioned with sustainable or recyclable shrink sleeves are real, and people are looking for suitable answers.

So, here’s the complete informatory blog on the revolutionary “Trucycl” – the shrink sleeve you are waiting to have.

Thank you for your frank response. In my 18+ years of experience, I have tried to dedicate time for jotting down the points that inspire me or bug me in my journey of technical knowledge. I have written books, and to address the sustainability issue, my book – “5 Myths about Sustainable Shrink Sleeve” – is the one you should refer to. As it will help you clarify the points which have unclear dimensions.

Let’s discuss Trucycl in detail, the 100% recyclable shrink sleeve of India. Usually recyclability is highly demanded, but the procedures and application of recyclable shrink sleeves are either long and tiring or incurring huge amounts. Look at the reasons why they are not fully assimilated by the industry yet:

  • Segregation of shrink sleeve, bottle or cap.
  • Slow and tedious recycling process
  • Association with multiple recycling partners
  • Inks to be kept separately or they spoil the recycling process
  • Huge cost involved in each step

All the above points are creating a big hurdle together for a normal packaging converter, manufacturer or brand to practically implement recyclability.

And how Trucycl handles these issues are simple remarkable:

  • No need to go vendors for label removing
  • Bottle and Labels can be recycled together
  • 30% PCR availability
  • No Toxic waste
  • Inks can be washed off
  • Excellent shrink quality of final product

With the single objective of circularity in packaging waste, most of shrink sleeves fail to include the other aspect, which is productivity. However, with TruCycl productivity is the added advantage. It can offer great technical advantages like:

  • Good shrinkage quality
  • Better printability than other recycled substrate.
  • Less wrinkles in final output
  • Offer good gloss features 

Trucycl is the only solution available that offers 30% PCR (Post-consumer recycled) content which is recyclable in true sense. Trucycl can further be recycled very easily with simple steps and can contribute over all sustainable growth.

I have noticed brands eagerly waiting for solution that can bring down their carbon footprint.  A solution that can not only be useful and practical but also give circularity a great boost. With various sustainable shrink sleeve in the market, only Trucycl can give you concrete win in every point. Be it Sustainability goals, Practical, Simple and Productivity.

This is the best catch for premium brands who are looking for a fresh take on sustainability in their packaging.

I am sure these points are able to move your thoughts little bit more towards sustainability. You can share your query on any technical details for Trucycl. We are excited to bring this to you.

You can write to us at info@tauruspackaging.com or call us on +91 9667400924.

17 Oct
Shrink Sleeves

Trash the Trash: 100% Recyclable Shrink Sleeves “TruCycl” is Here.

Waiting for the efficient recyclable shrink sleeve applications while missing out the sustainable target?

Lack of access, Low PCR content and Sustainability output are common problems with so called recyclable substrates?

I came across these problems while trying out a few sustainable shrink sleeves for recyclable packaging. I tried couple of substrates that claims recyclable efficacy but somehow, I was disappointed from them. Then I tried to examine these substrates on the other criteria like toxicity, printing quality, easy recyclability etc. but it was more disheartening than previous. So, I finally decided to figure out a solution for it.

As a shrink sleeve enthusiast, I saw opportunities, in such challenging situations. Initial year of my career helped me in understanding the basics of packaging and then afterwards, I focused myself in resolving these challenging situations. It’s been almost 18 years since; I haven’t stopped myself working for any demanding situation. I penned downed these experiences in form of my 4 beloved technical books. I suggest you take out sometime and read it.

Let us be more specific about these recyclable shrink sleeves. Usually, the substrates that we are getting in market have these below problems:

  • Low PCR content – low or zero benefits
  • Not fully recyclable – just facilitating recyclability
  • Poor output or low printing quality
  • Difficult to access
  • Expensive as it requires add-on chemicals for recyclability
  • Toxic in nature

Brands and organization are searching for suitable substrates that overcome these challenges. Not all but at least 2 of them. Now, here come the answer to above problems, the most promising shrink sleeves of all time.

Introducing “TruCycl” India’s first 100% recyclable shrink sleeves.

As the name suggest it is truly recyclable and most efficient sustainable shrink sleeve as of now. With 30% PCR content (post-consumer recycled content), it is a revolutionary solution to all those who are fed-up with so called recyclable packaging.

Let me point out the benefits of “TruCycl” shrink sleeves:

  • PCR availability up to 30% – Helps in maintaining the Govt and global guidelines
  • No Need to go to recycling center for label removal
  • Bottle + Label can be recycled together
  • Inks can be washed off
  • Easy to handle
  • No toxic waste
  • Good printing quality
  • Easily accessible

With innumerable benefits “TruCycl” is here in India with us. So, dump these trashy substrates and try India’s first 100% Recyclable Shrink Sleeve – “TruCycl”.

Truly Recyclable Shrink Sleeve at your service is here with Taurus Packaging. Try out your premium brand’s packaging with TruCycl now.

Reach out to us for any query ahead at:
info@tauruspackaging.com or  +91 9667400924

Chetan Jain
MD & CEO
Taurus Packaging Pvt. Ltd.

26 Sep
Shrink Sleeves

BOPP label with Release Tape.

Do you struggle with shrink sleeving your PET candy jars?

Are you looking Simple & Quick Application of labels for PET Jars?

Are you still using expensive paper or self-adhesive labels for your PET jars?

If yes, you’re not alone. Deformation of PET jars during shrink sleeving is one of the most common packaging headaches for brands. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to compromise on looks, cost, or efficiency anymore. At Taurus Packaging, we’ve developed a simple yet powerful solution that eliminates this issue—helping you save time, money, and effort while keeping your packaging top-notch.

In my 18+ years in the shrink sleeve printing industry, I’ve worked with high end machines, new printing inks, Substrates and R&D techniques. But the best lessons have come from optimizing available resources—making the most of what you already have. I’ve shared some of these real-world case studies in my book, Packaging Black Book (Vol. 3), which is packed with insights for brands looking to innovate without overspending.

Let’s discuss PET Jar Shrink Sleeving Problems you faced while executing. Shrink sleeves look fantastic, but when applied to PET jars, they often cause:

• Jar deformation due to heat during the shrinking process
• Wastage of material and money
• Delays in production

That’s why many brands shift to paper labels. But paper labels come with their own challenges: they’re often expensive, limited in finish, and lack flexibility for smaller batches. For startups and new brands, wrap-around label machines also become an added burden—raising costs and lowering productivity.

The Taurus Solution: BOPP Labels with Release Tape

Instead of forcing PET jars into shrink sleeving or spending heavily on paper labels, we recommend BOPP labels with release tape.

Why this works better:
✅ No deformation – Heat isn’t required, so PET jars retain their original shape.
✅ Premium finish – Looks as good as shrink sleeves.
✅ Budget-friendly – No need for expensive wrap-around machines.
✅ Flexible for startups – Works even for low print quantities.
✅ Faster packaging – Quick, easy, and efficient.

This technique is a multipurpose packaging solution that has already helped many upcoming brands and established companies streamline their PET jar packaging. Recently, a leading pharmaceutical brand approached us with the same challenge. They needed Shrink sleeve like packaging on PET jars in limited MOQ and budget. And finally without risk of deforming the jars. Our solution? BOPP labels with release tape.

The result was unmatchable.
• Quick turnaround
• No deformation
• High-quality finish
• Big savings on cost & effort

This efficient approach transformed their packaging without stretching their budget.

Ready to Upgrade Your PET Jar Packaging?

So, stop wasting time, effort, and money on packaging methods that don’t work for PET jars. With Taurus Packaging’s BOPP label + release tape solution, your brand can achieve premium results without compromise.

Whether you need something out-of-the-box or simply want your shrink sleeve packaging executed flawlessly, Taurus Packaging is here to help.

Reach out to us at:
info@tauruspackaging.com or +91 9667400924

And for more such packaging insights & case studies, visit our website.

06 Aug
Shrink Sleeves

Recycled PET

Flexible Packaging industry is experiencing a shift in its regular practices. This shift is not unpredictable. It is the preference of Recycled PET in flexible packaging practices. Shrink sleeve packaging with Recycled-PET has given a new life to recycling.

I am working in shrink sleeve packaging industry for almost 2 decades. It was an experience that changed my perspective of life. I have lived packaging throughout my life, and I have learned that creativity is the essence, but it had to be included with practical implementation. R-PET is the perfect mixture that defines it. I have written about the sustainable substrates in my 2nd book – “5 Myths about sustainable shrink sleeves and received various inputs from all of you”. I hope you have read it through and would relate it from the topic we are discussing now.

The future of flexible packaging is this combination, and indeed Recyclable-PET is the scope. Let’s know a bit more about this new approach. Recycled-PET as its name suggest, deal with already used and recycled plastic. This is excellent opportunity to utilize loitering plastics in environment. A welcoming move by Indian government has recently permitted that newly manufactured PET bottles must contain 30% PCR. And similar kind of rule will be in near future in flexible packaging industry.

Taurus has recently come up with Recycled-PET shrink sleeves to cater the growing sustainable market in flexible shrink sleeves. The percentage share of recycled PET was thoughtfully done to consider the current industry situation and the objective to provide quality products to consumer. One must be accustomed to the benefits and drawback in its initial phase to prepare for the full-scale application.

Recycled-PET is perfectly safe and easy for food packaging. Giving good results is clarity and great results in shrinking ability. It is widely used by international and MNC’s brand to deal with less carbon footprint. In India the use has been in its initial phase, however we are receiving promising response from the brand. It is giving them opportunity to limit the expanding virgin plastic use, support govt. in recycling and gain benefits.

Using Recycled-Pet is a win-win situation. Brand can be in-line with govt regulation and reduced their carbon footprint, on the top of this they can benefit the consumer with good results and optimistic future.

If you want your product’s packaging to be one among the leaders that goes along with future, then share your thoughts with us and we shall provide you the information on Recycled-PET shrink sleeve. You can also let us know your query. Write to us on info@tauruspackaging.com or call us on +919667400924.

28 Jul
Shrink Sleeves

A Legacy Reinvented: A New ‘Sun’ Rises at Taurus

Have you observed how butterfly is formed? How beautifully it changes itself from a mere caterpillar to a big beautiful bright Butterfly. If anyone to observe them individually for the first time, no one will ever know that they are one. This is how nature has taught us to change. So swift yet so dynamic to survive different environment individually.

Change is the only constant for perfect existence. Similarly, Organizations also need to change itself for gradual growth. For 3 decades Rajesh Jain – The man behind the concept of Taurus Packaging, was at helm. And organization grew to become the most renowned companies in Shrink Sleeve Packaging. He guided and mentored the organization to the quickly adapting and growing packaging requirements of India. His vision has led the ideation to form into a shape that focuses on creating a niche for itself.

With changed scenario Chetan Jain came and started working on the areas that required attention. After doing significant inclusions like H.I.P. Framework, sustainability, innovations, global footprint etc. he focused himself in redefining the management approach as it was observed that the organisation needed a head-on change in the dynamic environment.

Hence the board unanimously decided that Mr Rajesh Jain will be Chairman and Chetan Jain should be the MD & CEO and take the herculean task of change management in the organisation. Chetan Jain as new Managing Director and CEO will be observing the micro and macro divisional operations that impact the overall productivity and take necessary action to improve it.

This management transformation will bring fresh start and new zeal in employees and clients to regain the bonding and make Taurus Packaging – a Global Leader in Shrink Sleeve Packaging industry just a like bright beautiful Butterfly.

18 Jun
Shrink Sleeves

3 Decades of Taurus Packaging—A Legacy That Continues.


If you ever wanted to see how ideation takes shape in the real world, explore beautiful buildings like the Lotus Temple in Delhi or the “Bird’s Nest” in Beijing. Let us give you a personal example from the flexible packaging industry—TAURUS PACKAGING. It was a dream seen by a spirited man who wanted to create a niche in the packaging industry, and that dream is now an organization that completed 30 years this month.

Taurus Packaging is now known as an expert in shrink sleeve packaging. For the past 30 years, they have dedicated their efforts to flexible packaging. In India, they are leaders in shrink sleeves and now export packaging to 3 continents around the world. Initiated by Mr. Rajesh Jain, Managing Director, with a small in-house setup, it is now led by Chetan Jain, CEO & Executive Director, who keeps the core values intact and acts big with new zeal.

Thirty years signifies a strong foothold in the industry. Many companies come and go but are unable to create such a mark. Taurus is unique in its efforts. Taurus’s’ work has been appreciated by authorities for exceptional packaging. Recently, FIPSA (Foundation for Innovative Packaging and Sustainability Award 2025) awarded Taurus for exemplary packaging execution of the “Parle Smoodh” drink under the design category. Before this, “BIRA,” a well-known beer brand, received the Best Packaging award—Gold & Grand Gold—from Spiritz Magazine in the year 2022. All these achievements are because of continuous efforts by Chetan Jain.

Chetan Jain is known as a technical expert in shrink sleeves. Under his guidance, Taurus has developed a high-tech R&D lab and acquired the latest printing machines in flexo, gravure, and digital. Along with these, the organization expanded its operational unit to increase productivity. He has been the recipient of various prestigious awards in the packaging industry and has always been in the top 100 packaging professionals in India.

Most critical—the trust and love of all brands for its packaging solution define the winning streak for 30 continuous years. This is the REAL WIN. This is TAURUS PACKAGING.

09 May
Shrink Sleeves

Designing for the Future

When we consider innovation and trends happening in the packaging industry, sky is the limit. We heard next to impossible innovations in the printing machines, inks and substrates mostly regarding Sustainability. Although a maximum of these are out of reach, to be commercialised. Or sometimes they lack practicality. Yet, I consider packaging industry is one of the most creative industry’s of the world.

During the initial years of my career, I have learnt that points which seems impossible to me now, are temporary and coming years will serve wonderful solutions. 18 years of my experience here is full of amazement and I want to share a few of these wonderful solutions with you.

Here are the innovations and trends that are unsettling the market and creating opportunities for growth. And of-course I am going to points out flexible packaging innovation. The innovations which is explored by a few packaging managers and can provide unmatched benefits to the consumers.

Expiry inks :

Specialised inks used in packaging are usually invisible but change color when the perishable item inside them expires. This thoughtful innovation helps reduce wastage.

Edible alternative :

Flexible packaging made up of cellulose, fibre, or starch is becoming popular. Natural materials like algae, plant fibres, and seaweed are already available in the market.

Smart packaging :

Integrating smart packaging technology into shrink sleeves opens up a world of possibilities for enhancing consumer engagement, product safety, and supply chain management. Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) is a technology that uses radio waves to wirelessly identify and track objects.

Bio-nanotechnology/Composites in packaging :

Utilizing bio-nanoparticles in shrink sleeves enhances mechanical, barrier, and thermal properties. These films provide better protection against moisture, oxygen, and UV radiation, thereby improving the stability and shelf life of packaged products.

Augmented reality :

Just like the other benefits of AI and AR tools in our lives, flexible packaging with augmented reality provides us with virtual product demonstrations, product information and storytelling, virtual try-ons or visualizations and games and contests. These features increase customer engagement to the next level.

Share me which one of these is your favourite? I am sure you must be keen to utilise one or two of them in your product’s packaging. You may start implementing innovations at the initial stage with our guidance. You may share your queries with us on info@tauruspackaging.com or call +91 96674 00924.

We are waiting for your feedbacks.

02 Apr
Shrink Sleeves

Designing for Consumer Safety and Health

My dear friends, this blogs covers slightly different segment of packaging. It might not seem as urgent as other aspects yet plays the crucial part. I am referring to “Designing for Consumer Health”

It is first time that I have elaborated on this topic. Earlier it was mentioned in my previous books in few lines. But, this time I thought, I should communicate this topic with my readers. My fourth book “20 things I learnt from World’s top Packaging professionals” mentioned this topic in length. 18 years of my total experience has explored varied topics of packaging. And this is one unique topic.

Flexible packaging has given us many opportunities to go beyond the regular uses of packaging, such as food security and freight forwarding. From adhering to government regulations to fulfilling the customers’ demands, the scope of packaging seems to be ever – evolving. Designing shrink sleeve packaging with consumer safety and health in mind involves several considerations to ensure that the packaging not only protects the product but also does not pose any risks to consumers.

As consumers are becoming more aware, packaging fervently becomes the critical source of information about the basic details of products. Designing of these shrink labels are planned by keeping the designated areas for this information. Below are the points which are mentioned on shrink sleeves to keep consumers informed.

Layout & copy

Designing the layout on shrink sleeve packaging requires careful consideration of aesthetic and functional clarity. You may have noticed critical details are highlighted to get the consumer’s attention immediately. For instance, labels such as Non-Veg, Veg, Gluten-free, 100% Organic, No artificial sweeteners, and locally grown are usually mentioned at the top.

Health claims
Some key information claimed by brand owners is mentioned for consumers’ benefit. This information allows brands to improve trust and communication from the consumer’s perspective. Labels like FSSAI approved, High fibre, Fat- free, Wholegrain, Protein, Low salt, and Sugar content are common. Brands must show the top ingredients of the product in decreasing order for consumers to be aware.

Expiry details
The most critical information which is used not only by consumers but also by retailers, stockists, and freight forwarders. This information is one of the most noted points on packaging. With upcoming packaging trends, we can even clearly know the expiration of perishable products due to specialised inks and substrates. Key phrases vary according to the products – best before, use by, expiry etc.

Storage details
Including storage details on shrink sleeve packaging is crucial for ensuring that consumers know how to properly store the product to maintain its quality and safety. For example, temperature specifications on McCain Crispies and sunlight exposure warnings on various pharmaceutical drugs like eye or ear drops. Instructions may include refrigeration, freezing, vertical or horizontal storage, etc.

Shape & size
Sky is the limit if you want to aesthetically and functionally present a product in shrink sleeve packaging. Earlier, we were quite fixed with our approach to standardization. However, with customization, we have explored ways to pack in standup vacuum pack resealable pouches like “Nourish Dal” or pouches for small packs like “Maggi Pichkoo’’ single- serve packaging. Easy-opening and slim pouches are also appreciated.

On-the-go packaging

Packaging on the go isn’t a new concept anymore. We have sack packs that act as a large bowl for consumption. Convenience is best delivered in packaging.

Resealable opening

When we go on trips with various nuts, seeds, and snack options, resealable packaging allows us to eat and seal for next consumption. Don’t you think that packaging has eased our lives a lot? If you want to count your calorie intake, these resealable packages are the best.

Ease of serving

Packaging has eased our work in serving too. Remember old canned food that was tough to open? We either used a cutter or a small pulley to open it. Now we have easy, easy-open packaging to facilitate serving.

Counterfeit packaging solutions & technology 

This topic requires another chapter to discuss in detail. But long story short, counterfeit can destroy your brand and erode consumer trust. Any “me too” local brand may try to imitate the leaders. To keep the consumers aware, packaging serves as a distinguisher. You may use special inks, barcodes, or QR codes to highlight the original brand. The use of holograms is also quite effective.

This topic can be continued with various examples and references, yet it seem suitable to end the topic here. I hope you are able to get the desired knowledge and utilize it properly.

You may share your feedback and can even suggest me topics of your choice at info@tauruspackaging.com or call on +91 96674 00924.

05 Mar
Shrink Sleeves

The Impact of Digital Printing and Personalization on Packaging Purchasing

Customization is one of the big objectives for packaging professional. A product’s frequent availability without any striking features may harm your brand reputation. Your brand may end up being referred to as a “Me Too” brand  FMCG companies. Hence, personalization is the best objective to consider for creating your strong brand presence.

This topic also intrigued me a lot. “How can I add new things in packaging?”  was my next question. There is a huge scope for R&D in it. I have written various related articles. The extract of my 18 yrs work can be read in my 4 books.

I used to believe that digital printing had limited applications, especially in markets like India. However, my perspective changed when my friend’s daughter was born. Upon receiving a gift hamper from “Baby Dove,” with each pack personalized with his daughter’s name, I realized the power of digital printing. This thoughtful gesture by the hospital, facilitated by their partnership with Dove, made the experience feel deeply personal. I learned how digital printing can be leveraged by brands if done right! Since then, we had done multiple projects on digital printing and explored the wide possibilities that can be achieved with this technology.

Shrink sleeve packaging is the most crucial part of branding. Here are the points that can help you create an aura in the market:

  • Short runs and specialized projects :

Digital printing of shrink sleeve packaging gives you an edge over your normal high production packaging. Digital printing with fast results and cost efficiency is the way to move ahead in the market. This is the best-suited approach for any new development. If you need to experiment with packaging, then digital printing is the best way to start. You don’t have to think twice about budget and MOQ with digital printing.

  • Customisation & personal approach are possible :

No technology can save you if you can’t personalize the demand. Customers always prefer “made to order” for them. Customization can be implemented in so many ways. For example, for a particular season, occasion, festivities, etc., you may customize your packaging. E.g., Keventers Diwali Milkshake shrink sleeve gave a boost to sales.

  • Niche marketing :

Catering to customers of a limited section with specific tastes and habits in the form of customized shrink sleeves can be an exceptional way to establish your brand. Digital printed shrink sleeves by one of our clients had different flavours of yoghurt with a specific sleeve for each flavor. It was a niche smaller volume product range, but digital printing made it easy to provide initial launch quantities with multiple flavours for the pilot launch.

Taking this “Niche marketing” to the extreme, a one-to- one approach is also possible, e.g., Coke’s “Share a Bottle” campaign for BOPP labels created a wonderful case study for the digital printing industry

  • Key clients :

Well, this is not just a normal saying that “80% of your sales come from 20% of your customers.” If you are able to pull through this customization concept with digital printing packaging, then you are able to do more sales with existing clients.

  • Edge over customers :

If I were handling a brand of FMCG product, I would surely come out with different shrink sleeve packaging for every occasion. It would help me stay connected to my customers and give me an edge over competitors in the market who are still under the illusion of “High MOQ – low cost” packaging concepts.

  • Flexibility and New business model :

Rigid mentalities or concepts are hard to let go of. This often occurs with brands that maintain large-scale production and fail to experiment. For instance, “Urban Gabru,” a male grooming brand, led its way from a small-scale startup to a well-known name in the male grooming section with digitally printed packaging. Now, they offer different products under the brand name.

  • Fast TAT :

With digitally printed shrink sleeves, you have the advantage of implementing projects immediately. You don’t have to wait for cylinders to arrive. Fast turnaround time is the best thing about digital printing.

  • Multiple SKUs in a single run :

This is another challenge resolved with digitally printed shrink films. In a single run. you can get packaging for your different SKUs. No need for segregation and printing separately.

  • Print anytime :

Flexibility is always available to you regarding timing and delivery. You can opt to print according to your needs.

  • Environment friendly inks, no solvents :

Looking for sustainable options? Wanting to reduce your carbon footprint and earn fewer credits? Then digital printing is the solution. Inks are water-based, no solvents are used in it. You can optimize more such features with Digital printing. And with AI being in use, design is not that tough. Go out and explore the shrink sleeve packaging as you want. It is possible indeed.

With this note, Let’s catch up again with exciting topic. Share me your feedback. Write me on info@tauruspackaging.com or connect with me on +91 96674 00924.

12345