When it comes to increasing your profitability by selling labels, the appeal of industrial labels may not be immediately obvious. However, the financial benefits they offer are undeniably attractive.
The profitability of industrial labels stems from their custom nature. Unlike mass-produced labels found in retail stores, these specialized products are tailored to meet specific requirements, particularly the compatibility between label materials and the surfaces (typically metal) they adhere to. They also need to endure tough environmental conditions, typically for the lifetime of the product, making the expertise involved in creating them invaluable.
Most customers lack the technical knowledge necessary to select the right labels substrates, which is where distributors come into play. Partnering with an experienced industrial label supplier like Wise can position you as a vital problem-solver, addressing challenges that your customers cannot tackle alone.
This leads to a steady stream of business—once customers find a reliable labeling solution, they are unlikely to switch suppliers. We refer to these ongoing sales as “label annuities,” representing recurring revenue with minimal ongoing effort.
Navigating Label Durability Challenges
Consider a manufacturer of pressure washers designed for rugged use. On a pressure washer, they need to withstand a particularly harsh weather conditions and environmental factors while remaining legible and functional—all for the lifetime of the product.
This means that labels must endure:
- Water exposure
- UV stability
- Temperature extremes
- Chemical resistance
- Abrasion resistance
- Moisture stability
- Corrosion and oxidation
- Outdoor elements
- Vibration tolerance
- Mold and mildew resistance
To meet these stringent requirements, labels are typically crafted from high-quality materials like weather-resistant vinyl or polyester, often enhanced with protective coatings.
Testing for Reliability
Clients may conduct performance tests to ensure durability before applying labels to their equipment. If your supplier has pre-tested their products (as Wise does), this can save both you and your client’s valuable time.
Choosing the Right Supplier
Specialized suppliers of industrial labels offer materials that are designed to withstand various environmental challenges. Many labels are composed of matte film laminate or polyester with a strong adhesive, ensuring longevity regardless of weather conditions.
As a distributor, you can provide pre-printed labels, often produced via flexographic presses or advanced digital printers like the HP 6K Digital Label Press for short runs. Alternatively, many manufacturers prefer to print labels in-house. This presents an opportunity for you to provide a comprehensive package that includes printers, ribbons, and label stock—creating a long-term revenue stream as customers continue to order label stock over time.
Talk to your Wise RSM about boosting your revenues by selling power equipment labels!
