Label Power has expanded its production capabilities to meet rising demand from the food industry by installing advanced flexographic printing technology, including the Bobst Master M5X UV 430 flexo label and coupon press.
The investment enables the company to enhance its output of food labels, carcass tags, and food packaging materials, addressing the industry’s growing requirements for larger, more durable, and regulation-compliant labelling formats.
James Malone, founder and CEO of Label Power, said the press was selected for its ability “to produce multi-layer coupon labels and to perforate and sheet using three die stations”—capabilities that are essential in the food industry where complex, multi-layer label formats are often required to convey detailed product information.
With a web width of 440 mm, the Bobst press allows Label Power to print larger, more detailed labels than previously possible with its 340 mm presses. The machine is also capable of printing up to 10 colours in a single pass, offering what Malone described as “vibrant and clear labels to enhance product visibility while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.”
Its versatility includes the ability to print on a wide range of materials, from flexible plastic films to rigid paperboard, which is critical for serving the diverse packaging needs of the food industry. This includes applications ranging from fresh food labels to multi-layer promotional coupons.
Among the system’s standout features is the Print Tutor system, which automates setup and registration using mark-to-mark detection cameras on each printing unit. “The Print Tutor system is amazing and allows for quick setup with very little waste,” Malone said. The short web path further minimises material waste and improves efficiency.
Durability is also key, especially for fresh food products like meat and poultry. The new technology enables Label Power to produce carcass tags that remain legible and resistant to cold and moisture, helping ensure traceability throughout the supply chain.
The company has also installed an eight-colour Omet Kflex press with water-cooled GEW LEO LED UV curing technology, believed to be the first of its kind in Australia. Combined with its recently acquired HACCP food certification, Label Power ensures that labels and tags are manufactured in a controlled environment with an emphasis on food safety.
Following its 2020 acquisition of Action Labels & Nameplates, the company has expanded its operations in both Melbourne and Brisbane. With these investments, Malone affirmed, “We are continually investing in extra capacity to serve the market. We plan to keep growing the business and enhancing our technological capabilities to better serve the food industry. The future looks exciting, and we’re eager to continue delivering quality solutions to our clients.”
