Label Printer of the Year Winner: The Label Makers

With a name like this who can be surprised? The Label Makers finally topped the category this year, after being highly commended in 2005 and 2006.

Determined to outshine its opponents, the Bradford-based company impressed the judges with its intelligent use of print and added-value applications. The judges took a particular liking to The Label Makers’ eye-catching labels for William Bros micro-brewed ales, which were printed on a silver metallic background that, when bent around the bottles, gave a reflective look, adding to their appeal. The substrate also allowed a simulated gold effect to be produced by using a yellow ink and lacquer. The labels were printed five-colour, using opaque white to provide a base over which other colours could be printed, before a satin and scuff-resistant varnish was applied. All this was achieved in one pass on an Nilpeter FA4 flexo press. The judges were also impressed with its labels for Audrey Baxter Gourmet Soups, Treasures Baby Wipes and ASDA Extra Special Apple Juice, which took full advantage of the company’s range of print and finishing effects.

For the full rundown of the PrintWeek Awards 2008 winning and commended companies, click here