Jamie Xuereb, Author at Mediapoint

Why Offset Label Printing Alternatives Stack Up

Posted on March 14, 2024March 14, 2024 by Jamie Xuereb

Offset printing labels – is it worth the effort to set up and the overall cost? After all, the method you choose is less of a significant impact on quality thanks to the improvements in label print tech. The intended application and required turnaround times are the focus areas in 2024 & beyond.

For decades, offset printing has been the go-to for producing labels on rolls, particularly for high-volume print runs. This technique, known for its exceptional print quality and suitability for large quantities, has been serviceable for businesses needing consistent, high-quality labels.

However, as market demands shift towards more flexible, timely, and cost-effective solutions – digital printing is emerging as a formidable contender.

Why Offset Label Printing Has Been Preferred – Until Now

Offset printing’s appeal for label production, especially on rolls, stems from several key advantages:

Suitability for High Volumes: Offset printing is incredibly efficient for large-scale label or sticker runs, making it cost-effective for long-term projects requiring thousands, if not millions, of the same label design and shape.
High Setup Costs but Economical for Bulk: While the initial setup fees for offset label printing can be substantial due to the need for creating plates and configuring the press, these costs are amortised over large print runs, reducing the per-unit cost significantly.
Quality and Precision: Known for its high-quality outputs, offset printing can produce stickers with crisp, clear images and vibrant colours. The technique is also conducive to die-cutting, allowing for precise shapes and sizes.
Consistency: For brands that require consistency across batches produced over time, offset printing offers great uniformity, ensuring that each label looks exactly like the last, even over extended periods.

Despite these advantages, offset printing’s inflexibility with ‘kinds’ (variations in design or content within the same print run) and its high setup costs have prompted businesses to seek more adaptable printing solutions.

Shifting Trends: The Move Towards Digital Printing

The landscape of label printing is changing, driven by evolving business needs and technological advancements. The trend towards ‘just-in-time’ purchasing and the decreasing desire to hold large inventories are significant factors influencing this shift. Here’s why digital printing is becoming the preferred choice for labels and stickers:

Agility and Flexibility: Unlike offset printing, digital printing does not require plates, significantly reducing setup times and allowing for greater flexibility in print runs. This agility is crucial for businesses looking to respond quickly to market demands or make last-minute changes to their labels.
Economical for Shorter Runs: Digital printing is more cost-effective for smaller quantities, making it an ideal choice for businesses that require high-quality labels but in lower volumes. This aligns perfectly with the trend towards smaller, more frequent print runs as companies adopt a ‘just-in-time’ inventory approach.
Quality that Matches or Surpasses Offset: Advances in digital printing technology mean that it can now match or even surpass the quality of offset printing labels. High-resolution digital printers can produce labels with incredible detail, vibrant colours, and even achieve fidelity and micro sizes that offset printing struggles with.
No Constraints on ‘Kinds’: Digital printing offers the ability to print multiple designs in the same run without incurring additional costs. This flexibility is a boon for businesses that require a variety of label designs or frequently update their label content.

Embrace the Offset Label Printing Alternatives

The flexibility, cost-effectiveness for shorter runs, and high-quality outputs, makes digital printing a compelling alternative to offset label printing. It also matches the shifting dynamics of consumer demand and inventory management that tilt in favour of agile production.

At Mediapoint, we embrace the latest in digital printing technology, offering our clients unmatched quality, a wider range of sticker / label products, and better margins for reselling.

As the industry continues to evolve, so too will the technologies we use, ensuring that your labels always make the best impression, no matter how big or small the job.

Not yet a part of our trade print community? Sign up for a trade account in minutes – Click Here.

Why CMYK Reigns Supreme in Commercial Printing

Posted on March 12, 2024March 12, 2024 by Jamie Xuereb

In the vibrant world of commercial printing, colour plays a pivotal role in capturing attention and conveying messages. Yet, the colours you see on your screen don’t always translate directly onto paper.

This discrepancy lies in the fundamental difference between the RGB (Red, Green, Blue) colour model used by electronic displays and the CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black) colour model that dominates commercial printing.

Understanding why CMYK is the industry standard over RGB is crucial for anyone looking to produce printed materials that accurately reflect their vision. Whilst much of this will be taken care of thanks to software default settings / your graphic designers – it’s handy to understand why this colour model is used.

The Basis of CMYK in Printing

The CMYK model is essentially a subtractive colour model used in colour printing. Unlike RGB, which adds light to create colours (additive colour model), CMYK works by subtracting brightness from white light, reflecting specific colours back to the eye.

This process is more aligned with the way printed materials are consumed—through the reflection of light rather than the emission of light.

1. CMYK is Complementary to the Printing Process

Commercial printing equipment is designed to apply inks in the CMYK spectrum. This system is a direct descendant of the four-colour printing process, where each colour layer is applied separately to build up the final image.

The use of CMYK inks is tailored to this process, allowing for a wide range of colours to be produced by overlaying these four basic colours in varying intensities.

2. Greater Material Versatility

The CMYK model’s reliance on physical ink makes it highly adaptable to a variety of printing surfaces, whether it’s paper, cardboard, fabric, or even plastic.

This versatility is crucial for commercial printing, where the demand spans across numerous types of materials, each with its own ink absorption and colour reflection properties.

3. Cost-Effectiveness of CMYK

Printing in CMYK is economically more viable for mass production. The RGB model, with its reliance on light to create colours, is not suitable for printing on physical media.

CMYK inks, on the other hand, can be mixed in precise quantities to achieve the desired hues without the need for additional colours, keeping the production costs manageable.

Addressing the Limitations of RGB in Printing

RGB’s primary limitation in the context of printing lies in its design for digital displays, which can produce a broader spectrum of colours by combining light.

When RGB images are converted for printing, for things like (signs, stickers or labels) some colours may appear muted or different because the CMYK colour space is inherently narrower.

This can lead to discrepancies between the on-screen preview and the final printed product, emphasising the importance of designing in CMYK for materials intended for printing.

Navigating Colour Conversion Between CMYK & RGB

The transition from RGB to CMYK can be managed with careful planning and understanding of colour spaces. Designers often work within this colour space when creating materials for print to ensure what they see on their screens closely matches the final output.

So if you or a customer have got a designer creating work for you it’s highly likely this is already taken care of. But it never hurts to double check!

Advanced software and colour management tools can also aid in predicting how colours will change during this conversion, allowing for adjustments before the printing process begins.

From Offset Printing to Digital Brilliance

Posted on March 12, 2024March 12, 2024 by Jamie Xuereb

In the realm of commercial printing, offset printing has long been the go-to process. Offset print is often sought for its ability to churn out large volumes at breakneck speeds. This traditional method, wherein designs are transferred from plates to rollers and finally onto the media, has dominated the industry for years. We’re pretty sure that when you think of large format print, you’ve probably got the image of an offset printer in your head! That’s despite the fact that it’s increasingly becoming the less-preferred process for production.

The tide is turning, and at Mediapoint, we’re riding the wave of change. It’s a decision driven by unparalleled advancements in technology and the evolving needs of clients. For most use cases, digital printing has reached parity with offset processes.

So let’s dive into the how and why…

Understanding Offset Printing

Offset printing’s legacy in the mass production of prints is undeniable. It’s been the go-to for businesses needing large print runs due to its efficiency and consistency.

The Benefits:

High-Quality Images and Textures: Offset printing produces rich, accurate colors and high-quality images with finer detail and without streaks or spots. The method’s ability to use a wide range of printing substrates also means textures and finishes can be more diverse.
Cost-Effectiveness for High Volumes: For large print runs, offset printing becomes incredibly cost-effective. The initial setup costs are offset by the lower per-unit cost at higher volumes, making it ideal for printing large quantities.
Colour Consistency: The process allows for excellent colour matching and consistency across a print run, which is vital for branding and high-quality art reproductions.

The Drawbacks

Naturally, there are drawbacks to traditional printing processes – particularly as equipment manufacturers continue to innovate in the spaces.

High Initial Setup Costs: The need to create plates for each print job incurs significant initial costs, making offset printing less economical for small to medium-sized print runs. This setup process also requires time and planning, which can be a disadvantage for projects with tight deadlines.
Inflexibility in Print Runs: Once an offset print run has begun, making changes can be costly and complicated. This inflexibility means errors or last-minute updates can result in increased costs and wasted materials.
Size Limitations: The physical dimensions of the offset press limit the size of the print job. This can restrict the potential for larger formats that are increasingly popular in advertising and display materials.
Environmental Concerns: The process involves more waste than digital printing, from the plates that often cannot be reused to the excess ink and water usage. Additionally, the pigment-based inks used in offset printing typically have volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can be harmful to the environment.
Durability Issues with Pigment-Based Inks: While offering vibrant colors, the pigment-based inks used in offset printing are less durable when exposed to UV light and the elements, leading to quicker fading and degradation of outdoor materials.

These factors led us at Mediapoint to explore and ultimately embrace the possibilities offered by digital printing technologies. We’ve been investing heavily in keeping at the edge of these technologies – and we’re not quiet about it either. You may have even seen us featured in ProPack, manufacturer case studies and other printing media.

So let’s dive into why we’re all in on digital…

Why Mediapoint Chooses Digital Over Offset Printing

Superior Print Quality

One of the most compelling reasons for our shift towards digital printing is the remarkable quality it can achieve. Our Durst Tau UV roll printer stands as a testament to this, capable of printing intricately detailed 1pt text and 5mm QR codes that are crystal clear under a loupe. As you can see below you can get very creative with roll labels and stickers – unlocking applications galore.

Example of Micro Text Print that Offset Printing Can't Match

This level of precision was once thought to be the exclusive domain of offset printing, but digital technology has not only caught up; it’s starting to surpass.

Flexibility and Customisation

Digital printing eliminates the need for plates, a staple in the offset printing process. This removal not only reduces setup times but also opens up a world of customisation and flexibility for our clients.

At Mediapoint, we’ve leveraged this to eliminate kind fees on a wide array of products, making it more economical for our clients to print exactly what they need, regardless of the batch size.

Size and Material Versatility

Another advantage digital printing holds over offset is its adaptability in terms of print sizes and materials. Offset printing’s size limitations often restrict creative ambitions, especially for large format needs.

Digital printing, on the other hand, accommodates a broader range of sizes and substrates, ensuring that our clients’ visions aren’t constrained by technical limitations. We can print simple and complex designs, with high-fidelity on more materials than traditional offset printing would allow. And you’ll never be upset by more choice as a printing reseller, right? An increase in options and better outcomes for your own customers is always a positive.

Durability and Longevity

When it comes to outdoor applications, the UV durability of prints is paramount. Offset printing’s reliance on pigment-based inks falls short in this regard, especially compared to the UV inks used in digital printing.

These digital inks are not only more vibrant but also offer enhanced resistance to the elements, ensuring that prints remain fade-resistant and durable over time.

LOOKING FOR OFFSET PRINTING? WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED.

At Mediapoint, our commitment to providing top-tier printing solutions has led us to fully embrace digital printing. This technology aligns with our goals of offering high-quality, versatile, and cost-effective print options to our clients. By prioritising digital over offset, we’re not just keeping pace with technological advancements; we’re offering our clients the best the printing world has to offer.

Whether you’re looking to bring a creative vision to life, enhance your brand’s marketing materials, or simply explore the vast possibilities of digital printing, Mediapoint is here to make it happen. Contact us today to discover how our digital printing solutions can benefit your next project. Let’s create something remarkable together.

7 Considerations of Quality Label Printing

Posted on February 29, 2024 by Jamie Xuereb

We discuss these key considerations for delivering quality label printing services to our clients (and their customers).

Labels play a crucial role in the world of packaging, branding, and product identification. As a result, customers generally demand high quality from any label printing jobs. For printers, this means paying close attention to several important factors that can influence the quality of the final product.

So let’s take a look a the top elements that guide our label and sticker printing offering.

The Foundation of Quality Label Printing: Material Selection

The choice of label material has a significant impact on the overall quality and performance of the final product. Printers must carefully consider factors such as the intended application, environmental conditions, and required durability when selecting the right material.

Common materials include paper, film, foil, and various synthetic substrates, like BOPP. Each has unique properties and advantages that cater to specific labelling needs.

Label Adhesive Choice

Choosing the appropriate adhesive is critical to a label’s performance and longevity. Printers need to consider the surface on which the label will be applied and any environmental factors that may affect the adhesive’s performance, such as temperature, humidity, and exposure to chemicals.

Permanent, removable, and repositionable adhesives are some common options, each designed to meet different application requirements.

Printing Method: Balancing Quality, Speed, and Cost

Selecting the right printing method is crucial for achieving high-quality labels. Printers must evaluate the specific needs of a project, such as required print resolution, color accuracy, and print speed, to determine the most suitable method.

Flexographic, digital, offset, and screen printing are some of the popular methods, each with its own set of advantages and limitations that cater to various label printing scenarios.

Achieving Consistent Colour In Your Labels

Colour management plays a vital role in maintaining consistency and accuracy in label printing. Printers should calibrate and profile their printing equipment and use standardised colour systems (e.g., Pantone, CMYK) to ensure accurate colour matching.

Effective colour management is essential to maintain brand consistency and produce visually appealing labels that meet client expectations. We pride ourselves on offering consistent and true-to-design colour matching thanks to our use of quality equipment. Plus, our online portal for ordering and proofing enables you to understand the output upfront.

What Finishing Techniques Do Your Labels Require?

Finishing techniques can significantly improve a label’s appearance and functionality. Printers should explore various options such as varnishes, laminates, and specialty coatings to enhance durability, protect labels from environmental factors, or add visual effects (e.g., gloss, matte, holographic). These finishing touches can elevate a label’s aesthetic appeal and provide added value for clients.

For instance, utilising white ink under the CMYK layer can really make colours pop. Check out this example from our range:

Quality label with white ink in outdoor application — *See how the sticker on the left utilises a white ink to make the colours really stand out.*

Quality Label Printing Requires Precise Cutting

Precision matters for creating labels with clean, consistent edges and the desired shape and size. Printers must ensure precise cutting to avoid issues such as misalignment or excess waste material. The converting process, which includes steps like slitting, rewinding, and sheeting, should also be carefully managed to maintain label quality and functionality.

Mediapoint is one of only a few printers that can offer labels laser-cut from the backside. This leads to the most precise finish on labels / stickers. No excess material or white edges to ruin the work you’ve put into design.

Quality Control Processes

To maintain the highest quality in label printing, printers should implement a comprehensive quality control system. This may involve prepress checks, regular equipment maintenance, and thorough inspection of the final product. By identifying and addressing potential issues early in the process, printers can minimise waste, reduce production costs, and ensure customer satisfaction.

Of course, when you outsource printing, production QC is managed by your trade printer. Your main responsibility as a print reseller, or designer if you’re completing in-house, is to proof artwork ahead of submission. As a Lean organisation ourselves, we also recommend reviewing your design processes regularly to eliminate wasted time, effort and avoidable mistakes.

By focusing on these key considerations you can deliver quality labels to your clients. At Mediapoint we’ve taken all of these into account to determine our offerings. This means you can have peace-of-mind that labels and stickers printer with us will be durable, visually appealing, and functional.

We have a commitment to quality, and attention to detail, that will not only enhance customer satisfaction but increase your reputation too.

If you’re a print reseller and yet to register for a Trade Account with Mediapoint – you can sign up here. Access 24/7 live pricing, industry-leading turnaround and a wide range of products.

Setting Up Special Thru-Cut Custom Cut Print and Spot Colours

Posted on February 27, 2024February 27, 2024 by Jamie Xuereb

Looking to order some custom cut print options? Want to ensure artwork is approved and you don’t get delayed by proofing? Jason Xuereb, co-owner and Head of Production, has shared some quick tutorials to show you how to set up your design for hassle-free printing.

Special Thru Cut Custom Cut Print

In the example above Jason utilises a ‘selfie frame’, which involves a rectangle cut on the inside and another on the outside.

For simple cut shapes, it’s crucial to include the full cut data in the file, ensuring the complete shape desired for cutting is present, rather than relying on the trim box.

The critical step is to apply a stroke correctly with the name “Thru-cut” set as a spot color. To do this:

Use a swatch named “Thru cut” which is designated as a spot color.
Verify in the swatch details that it is indeed a spot color named “Thru-Cut”
It is important to use the specific naming convention of capital “T,” lowercase “h, r & u.” Followed by “-cut”

In the example, the rectangle on the outside must also have the “Thru-cut” spot colour applied. This is done by selecting the rectangle tool, applying the shape, and ensuring the “Thru-cut” spot color is applied to this outer rectangle as well.

Setting Up Your Spot Colours for Print

Mediapoint uses five main spot colours for different products and printing purposes:

Thru-cut: To cut fully through the media.
Score: To partially cut through the media.
Crease: To use the creasing wheel for creating a fold line.
Hole: To cut small holes using the POT tool.
White: To print white ink on labels.

Custom cut print makes it essential to correctly set up these colours in your artwork. Here’s a step-by-step based on the video above:

Select and set up the swatches in the design software.
For setting up a spot colour (e.g., Thru-cut), select any colour, go to the swatches palette, and ensure the name is correctly spelled and the colour type is set to spot.
The actual colour of the swatch does not matter as it will be removed by the Mediapoint automated production system during pre-press.
To create the remaining spot colours (score, crease, hole, and white), repeat the process by selecting the new colour, clicking new, typing the specific name, selecting spot, and confirming.

If you’d prefer not to create these spot colours manually, we’ve got you covered. Mediapoint offers a swatch file library on-demand. Just follow these steps:

Email trade@mediapoint.com.au to request the swatch library.
Once received, load it into Illustrator by going to the swatch libraries menu, selecting other library, and locating the swatch file.
This process will make the five spot colours readily available for use in your files.

With these tips in hand, you’ll be able to organise your artwork for seamless custom cut print in no time, saving on double ups, money, and headaches.

Labels and Stickers Stock Guides

Posted on February 3, 2024April 18, 2024 by Jamie Xuereb

Welcome to Mediapoint’s Labels and Stickers Stock Guides. This page is dedicated to providing you with detailed specifications and insights for our range of label and sticker materials. By familiarising yourself with these guides you can ensure that your designs will meet expectations and application requirements.

White BOPP

Our White Gloss BOPP is an ultra white polypropylene top coated film designed for ultimate label application conformation on many difficult and contoured surfaces. Supplied with a clean crisp white finish for optimum screen and print tone resolution.

White BOPP Technical Data PDF: DOWNLOAD HERE

Details at a Glance:

White Gloss Polypropylene
Matt and Gloss Laminates available for this stock
Waterproof
Dishwasher, Fridge and Freezer safe
Acylic Adhesive
54gsm Face
Application Temperature above -5 degrees celsius
Service Temperature range -40 degrees celsius to 120 degrees celsius
Backing is 65gsm Glassine liner

Product Overview:

The Mediapoint Gloss White BOPP (Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene) is a premium label stock that combines exceptional durability with a high-gloss finish. It is designed to provide your products with a superior presentation that stands out on the shelves. The material is resistant to water, oil, and most household chemicals, making it ideal for applications that require a robust label, including food and beverage products, cosmetics, and bath and body products.

Features:

High-Gloss Finish: Ensures vibrant print clarity and colour brilliance.
Water Resistant: Suitable for refrigerated products and beverages.
Oil and Chemical Resistant: Ideal for products exposed to harsh environments.
UV Resistant: Maintains print quality and colour integrity under exposure to sunlight.
Easy Application: The adhesive is designed for easy application and strong adherence to a variety of surfaces.

Specifications:

Material: Gloss White Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP)
Adhesive: Permanent acrylic adhesive
Maximum Roll Width: 1300 mm
Maximum Roll Length: 1000 m
Printing Technology Compatibility: Compatible with most major printing technologies including flexographic, digital, and thermal transfer.

Applications:

Food and Beverage Labels: Ideal for bottled products, jar labels, and refrigerated goods.
Cosmetic Labels: Perfect for beauty products that are frequently handled and stored in various environments.
Chemical Product Labels: Resists degradation from industrial oils, solvents, and cleaners.
Health and Wellness Products: Labels that stay intact on products often stored in wet environments like bathrooms.

Ordering Information: For more details on ordering Mediapoint White BOPP, including custom sizes and volume discounts, please contact our sales team at sales@mediapoint.com.au or visit our website at www.mediapoint.com.au.

Clear BOPP

Our Clear Gloss is a clear polypropylene top-coated film designed for ultimate label application conformity on many difficult and contoured surfaces. It provides excellent clarity for optimum print results and label performance, ensuring a cloud-free, high-resolution finish.

Clear BOPP Technical Data PDF: DOWNLOAD HERE

Details at a Glance:

Clear Gloss Polypropylene
Laminate not available for this stock
White Ink is available on this stock
Waterproof
Dishwasher, Fridge and Freezer safe
Permanent Acylic Adhesive
45gsm Face
Application Temperature above -5 degrees celsius
Service Temperature range -40 degrees celsius to 120 degrees celsius
Backing is 56gsm Glassine liner

Product Overview:

The Clear Gloss is a clear polypropylene top coated film designed for ultimate label application conformation on many difficult and contoured surfaces. Multiple features of this gloss make it a versatile and reliable choice for a variety of labelling applications, particularly where clarity and durability are paramount.

Features:

Clear Polypropylene Top-Coated Film: Provides a high clarity film that ensures optimal print results and label performance, giving a cloud-free and high-resolution finish.
Ultimate Label Conformity: Designed for ultimate application conformity on many difficult and contoured surfaces, making it suitable for complex packaging needs.
Durability: Constructed with a durable face-stock that is ideal for prime labels, especially in the body care industry where labels may be subject to frequent handling.
UV Exposure Resistance: Offers up to 6 months of UV exposure resistance depending on ink coverage, ensuring longevity under sunlight.
General Purpose Permanent Adhesive (AP901): Features a water-based acrylic adhesive that provides high cohesion and excellent clarity. It performs very well on apolar substrates such as PE and PP, and is approved for direct skin contact applications like plasters.
Temperature Resilience: The adhesive can handle a wide range of temperatures, with an application temperature minimum of -5°C and a service temperature ranging from -40°C to +120°C.
Laminate Longevity: Comes with a 24-month shelf life when stored at optimal conditions (20°C/50% RH), ensuring long-term usability without degradation in quality.

Technical Data:

Grammage (ISO 536): 45 g/m²
Caliper (ISO 534): 50 microns
UV Exposure: 6 months depending on ink coverage
Adhesive: AP901 General Purpose Permanent
Composition: Water-based acrylic
Direct Sunlight Resistance: Excellent
Cohesion: High
Application Temperature: Minimum -5°C
Service Temperature: -40°C to +120°C
Tack (FTM9): 8N/Inch
Ultimate Adhesion (FTM2): 7N/Inch

Laminate:

Shelf Life: 24 months at 20°C/50% RH
Typical Laminate Caliper: 124±6 µm
Total Weight: 130±6

Backing:

Type: WG White Glassine (1 side siliconised)
Grammage: 65 gsm
Caliper: 56 microns
Transparency: >40%

Silver BOPP

Our Silver BOPP is a 50-micron top-coated silver polypropylene film with a brilliant gloss surface, ideal for crisp colour reproduction and optimum print results. It supports various print methods including letterpress UV, screen, flexographic, and offset printing.

Silver BOPP Technical Data PDF: DOWNLOAD HERE

Details at a Glance:

Silver Polypropylene
Matt and Gloss Available on this stock
Waterproof
Dishwasher, Fridge and Freezer safe
White Ink is available on this stock
Permanent Acrylic Adhesive
45gsm Face
Application Temperature above -5 degrees Celsius
Service Temperature range -40 degrees Celsius to 120 degrees Celsius
Backing is 62gsm Glassine liner

Product Overview: The Silver Bopp is a top choice for high-quality, durable labels that require a metallic appearance with superior print clarity. The adhesive properties and durability of inks make this suitable for water, food & beverage, household, chemical, and point-of-sale labels.

Features:

Metallised Silver Polypropylene Film: This top-coated silver polypropylene film has a brilliant gloss surface that enhances crisp colour reproduction and optimizes print results.
Versatile Printing Compatibility: Suitable for various printing methods including letterpress UV, screen, flexographic, and offset printing, making it adaptable for different label production requirements.
Durability and Label Performance: Designed for use in applications where a demanding label substrate is required, including labels for water, food & beverage, household products, chemicals, and point of sale.
High Cohesion Adhesive: Equipped with AP901 general purpose permanent adhesive, known for its high cohesion, good clarity, and excellent performance on non-comparable substrates (PE, PP). This adhesive is also approved for direct contact with skin, suitable for products like plasters.
Excellent Sunlight Resistance: The adhesive provides excellent resistance to direct sunlight, ensuring that the labels maintain their integrity and appearance over time.
Broad Temperature Range: The adhesive supports a broad temperature range with a minimum application temperature of -5°C and a service temperature range from -40°C to +120°C.
Laminate Features: Includes a laminate shelf life of 24 months when stored at 20°C and 50% relative humidity. The typical laminate caliper is 130±6 microns with a total weight of 128±6 grams per square meter.

Technical Data:

Grammage (ISO 536): 45 g/m²
Caliper (ISO 534): 50 microns
Adhesive: AP901 General Purpose Permanent
Composition: Water-based acrylic
Direct Sunlight Resistance: Excellent
Cohesion: High
Application Temperature: Minimum -5°C
Service Temperature: -40°C to +120°C
Tack (FTM9): 8N/Inch
Ultimate Adhesion (FTM2): 7N/Inch

Laminate:

Shelf Life: 24 months at 20°C/50% RH
Typical Laminate Caliper: 130±6 µm
Total Weight: 128±6

Backing:

Type: WG White Glassine (1 side siliconised)
Grammage: 62 gsm
Caliper: 55 microns

Matte Paper

Our two-sided label matte paper is a high quality machine-coated paper with a crisp matt white finish. It offers superior thermal transfer printing capabilities and colour reproduction.

Matte Paper Technical Data: DOWNLOAD HERE

Details at a Glance:

Matte Paper
Ink has a gloss finish
No laminates available on this stock
Stock is thermal printable (the ink is not)
Permanent Acrylic Adhesive
82gsm Face
Application Temperature above 5 degrees Celsius
Service Temperature range -20 degrees Celsius to 70 degrees Celsius
Backing is 62gsm Glassine liner

Product Overview:

These Matte finish two-sided labels are made of high quality, wood-free, machine coated paper with excellent whiteness. The matt surface means greater thermal print transfer and superior colour reproduction – so your labels will pop with colour as intended.

Features:

Metallised Silver Polypropylene Film: This top-coated silver polypropylene film has a brilliant gloss surface that enhances crisp colour reproduction and optimizes print results.
Versatile Printing Compatibility: Suitable for various printing methods including letterpress UV, screen, flexographic, and offset printing, making it adaptable for different label production requirements.
Durability and Label Performance: Designed for use in applications where a demanding label substrate is required, including labels for water, food & beverage, household products, chemicals, and point of sale.
High Cohesion Adhesive: Equipped with AP901 general purpose permanent adhesive, known for its high cohesion, good clarity, and excellent performance on non-comparable substrates (PE, PP). This adhesive is also approved for direct contact with skin, suitable for products like plasters.
Excellent Sunlight Resistance: The adhesive provides excellent resistance to direct sunlight, ensuring that the labels maintain their integrity and appearance over time.
Broad Temperature Range: The adhesive supports a broad temperature range with a minimum application temperature of -5°C and a service temperature range from -40°C to +120°C.
Laminate Features: Includes a laminate shelf life of 24 months when stored at 20°C and 50% relative humidity. The typical laminate caliper is 130±6 microns with a total weight of 128±6 grams per square meter.

Technical Data:

Grammage (ISO 536): 82 g/m²
Caliper (ISO 534): 72 microns
Adhesive: S-Type – Permanent Acrylic
Peel Adhesion (N/25mm, FTM 1): 12.7
Initial Tack (N/25mm, FTM 9): 7.8
Cohesion (h, FTM 8): ≥ 3 hours
Minimum Application Temperature: 5°C
Service Temperature: -20 to 70°C

Laminate:

Shelf Life: 24 months at 23°C/50% RH
Typical Laminate Caliper: 142 microns (162gsm)

Backing:

Type: White Glassine
Grammage: 62 gsm
Caliper: 53 microns
Opacity: 60%

Gloss Paper

This gloss paper is a lustrous wet-strength paper cellulose substrate with a high cast gloss surface, offering exceptional print and colour results.

Gloss Paper Technical Data PDF: DOWNLOAD HERE

Details at a Glance:

Gloss Paper
No laminates available on this stock
Permanent Acrylic Adhesive
80gsm Face
Application Temperature above -5 degrees Celsius
Service Temperature range -40 degrees Celsius to 1200 degrees Celsius
Backing is 65gsm Glassine liner

Product Overview:

This paper is crafted to enhance the visual quality of labels with its striking gloss finish, ensuring standout labels on any shelf. That makes this product versatile and suitable for a wide array of applications including wine and beverage labelling, as well as health and cosmetic labels. Its robust properties make it ideal for environments where moisture resistance and aesthetic appeal are crucial.

Features:

High Cast Gloss Surface: Delivers exceptional print and color results with a premium gloss finish that ensures labels are visually striking and vibrant.
Wet-Strength Paper: Crafted from a robust wet-strength paper cellulose substrate, Verdure Lustre is highly resistant to moisture, making it ideal for labels that may be exposed to wet or humid conditions.
Versatile Applications: Perfect for a wide range of labeling needs, including wine and beverage labels, health products, and cosmetics, providing flexibility for various industry requirements.
Superior Adhesion Qualities: Features a pure acrylic adhesive (AP903) that offers good adhesion across a broad temperature range, which is crucial for maintaining label integrity in varying environmental conditions.
Excellent Clarity for Wet and Cold Surfaces: The adhesive is designed to provide clear and durable label adhesion, particularly effective for applications like wine labels that are stored in cold and moist environments.
Good Direct Sunlight Resistance: Ensures that the labels maintain their visual appeal and do not degrade when exposed to sunlight, preserving the product’s branding.
Low Cohesion: While providing strong initial tack, the adhesive allows for easier handling and application, making it user-friendly for labeling operations.
Durable and Reliable: The laminate and backing materials are designed to support the longevity and durability of labels, with a laminate shelf life of 24 months when stored properly.

Technical Data:

Grammage (ISO 536): 80 g/m²
Caliper (ISO 534): 86 microns
Adhesive: AP903
Type: Pure acrylic adhesive formulation
Characteristics: Offers good adhesion across a broad temperature range, excellent clarity for wet and cold surfaces which is particularly advantageous for wine labels.
Direct Sunlight Resistance: Good
Cohesion: Low
Application Temperature: -5ºC (minimum)
Service Temperature: -40ºC to +120ºC
Tack (FTM9): 8 N/inch²
Ultimate Adhesion (FTM2): 9 N/inch

Laminate:

Shelf Life: 24 months when stored at 20ºC/50% RH
Typical Laminate Caliper: 164±6 microns
Total Weight: 167±6 grams per square meter

Backing:

Type: WG White Glassine – 1 side siliconised supercalendered white glassine
Grammage: 65 gsm
Caliper: 56 microns
Transparency: > 45%

Labels On Rolls Quick Start Guide

Posted on February 3, 2024April 23, 2024 by Jamie Xuereb

To login to our labels portal go to this link: https://orders.mediapoint.com.au/

We want every label and sticker print job to be as seamless as possible for you. Using our ordering portal is a simple and effective way to get jobs done fast. Here are the 4 key things you need to know when getting started with our system:

Logging In To Our Portal

Overview

Navigate to the Mediapoint website and click the login button at the top.
Choose to log into the old IQ system or the new order system for labels and stickers.
Enter your login details and password. If you encounter issues, use the forgot password prompt to reset your password.
Once your credentials are entered, click the login button to access the system.

Adding Users To Your Label Account

Overview

As a company owner, click on the settings button to manage users.
To add a new user, click the add new users button, fill in their details, create a password, and select their role (employee or owner).
After setting up a new user, they should receive an email notification.

Getting a Label / Sticker Print Quote

Overview

Select the Labels on Sheets product and choose the label’s shape.
For square or circle labels, ensure no cut lines are added. For custom shapes, a thru-cut stroke is required.
Enter the label size and select options such as rounded corners (note that square corners are not available due to the digital cutting process).
Choose the quantity and review cost-saving options suggested by the system.
Save the quote by adding it to the cart and optionally download a physical copy.

Nail your pre-print setup with our label artwork guide – CLICK HERE

Accepting Quotes, Proofs & Artwork Errors

Overview

Proceed with a quote by adding it to your cart and combining it with other jobs if necessary.
At the checkout, provide necessary details like PO number, contact details, and shipping address. Ensuring all fields are accurate to automate the shipping process.
Review and adjust artwork specifications according to the Label guidelines provided.
If artwork errors are detected, the system will notify you and you may need to upload corrected artwork.
Confirm the order and proceed to the payment screen.
Once the proof is approved, accept all proofs and finalize the order, noting that no further changes can be made once production starts.
If necessary: reject the proof to upload new artwork.

Label Printing Artwork Guide

Posted on February 2, 2024April 15, 2024 by Jamie Xuereb

Welcome to Mediapoint’s Label Printing Artwork Guidelines. Here, we outline all the necessary steps and requirements to ensure your label / sticker artwork is print-ready – meeting our quality standards. Please follow these guidelines closely to avoid any delays or issues with your printing project.

To download the label printing guide as a PDF for your team – CLICK HERE

General Printing Guidelines: Document Setup

Colour Mode

All artwork must be submitted in CMYK colour mode to ensure colour accuracy in the final print.

Pantone Colors

Specify Pantone C spot colours where applicable to maintain colour consistency.

Bleed

Ensure a 3mm bleed around your artwork to allow for any slight misalignments during the cutting process.

Fonts

Convert all fonts to outlines to prevent any font substitution issues. This is a critical part of the file setup process so please take care to double-check fonts.

File Format

Submit your artwork files in PDF format only for optimal compatibility and print quality.

Square and Circle Label Print Guidelines

Cut Lines

No Cut Line Required For Square & Circle Label Printing: Our system will automatically add cut lines based on the bleedbox and trimbox specifications.

Size Match Trimbox

The trimbox size should match the quoted size. It is important to double-check your trimbox on any label artwork and correlate to the size specified in the quote.

Bleedbox Size

The bleedbox size must incorporate the 3mm bleed.

Custom Shape Label Printing Guidelines

Cut Lines

The cut line for custom label shapes must be a spot color named “Thru-cut”. Furthermore, this must be a stroke; not a fill.
The size of the Thru-cut must match the quoted size.

Bleedbox

Ensure that a 3mm bleed extends past the “Thru-cut” stroke mentioned above.

Size Match Trimbox

The trimbox size must match the quoted size regardless of shape. Match your trimbox size accurately to ensure no hiccups or delays.

Want to nail Thru-Cut and Spot Colour requirements? Check out our video guides.

White Ink Printing Guidelines

Spot Colour

Use a spot colour named “White” for any white ink printing applications. This is necessary for printing order and important for your pre-press preview checks.

Printing Order

White ink is always printed first, followed by CMYK colors. Overprint settings must be used according to your artwork setup.

Overprint & Adobe Print Production Tips

Utilising Adobe Acrobat’s Print Production feature will output a helpful preview to ensure separations and artwork is correctly set up.
When previewing in Adobe make sure to select “Simulate overprinting”. This will help and verify overprint settings for the White Ink spot color.
Select each separation to ensure spot color is correct and overprint settings are as intended.

Submission Checklist

Before submitting your artwork, please ensure you have adhered to all the above general guidelines. We recommend following this simple checklist of major items ahead of submitting label artwork to eliminate errors:

Ensure CMYK Colour Mode
Specify Pantone C Colours
Confirm 3mm Bleed
Convert all fonts to outlines
Ensure File is .PDF Format
Use Adobe Acrobats ‘Print Production’ output preview
Review and Confirm Specific Shape & Ink Guidelines

Remember incorrectly prepared files may lead to delays or additional costs. If you have any questions or require assistance, please contact our team.

4 Ways Mediapoint Excels at Trade Printing Services

Posted on September 12, 2023February 29, 2024 by Jamie Xuereb

When it comes to trade printing services in Australia, we’re confident that Mediapoint leads the pack. For over 17 years, we’ve refined our processes and products. All dedicated to serving high-volume resellers with unparalleled trade printing services.

Below, we’ve reflected on the top reasons we believe Mediapoint the best choice for Australian print resellers and brokers.

1. Our Trade-Only Commitment

At Mediapoint, we’ve made a commitment to focus solely on trade printing services. We’re proud to work exclusively with businesses that resell print products, ensuring that we can tailor our services to perfectly meet your needs. It also streamlines the entire printing process, allowing you to get on with the business of selling print – and us to get the job done to an exceptional quality. This efficiency leads to cost savings that can be passed on directly. Partners can enjoy greater profit margins and can trust us to deliver, no matter the volume.

Many other businesses claim to be ‘trade only’ but still deal with the retail customer – which can lead to competition with your trade partner and loss of business.

2. Our Ordering System is Built for Trade Printing Services

We understand that time is a critical factor for our clients. That’s why we’ve invested in an intuitive online ordering system combined with an automated proofing platform. This ensures that we complete jobs to exact specifications and within tight timelines.

In fact, over 80% of our products can be dispatched by 1 pm AEST the next business day if ordered by the cut-off time. This allows our partners to sell flexibly and provide superior service to their own clients. By focusing exclusively on printing and forgoing design services, we’re able to expedite job completion and further reduce costs.

3. Our State-of-the-Art Equipment

Quality is non-negotiable for us at Mediapoint. To deliver on our promise of quality, we’ve equipped ourselves with a broad range of state-of-the-art machinery.

From advanced flatbed printers to precise label and sticker printing and cutting equipment, we’re prepared to handle all trade requirements. We strive to match the right equipment to each specific job, ensuring consistent quality outcomes every time.

In fact, not only have we just installed one of Australia’s most advanced sticker and label printers, we’re also further investing in our flatbed lineup to provide even more value to our print resellers.

Jamie Xuereb Celebrating New Durst Printer — *Jamie Xuereb (Mediapoint CEO) celebrates the successful install of our new Durst Tau 330 RSC E*

In essence, our exclusive focus on trade printing, our commitment to efficiency through our user-friendly ordering system, and our comprehensive range of advanced equipment set us apart in the trade printing industry.

4. Two Decades of Australian Commercial Print Experience

In 2023, the Australian commercial print industry is characterised by its adaptability and resilience, continually reinventing itself in response to changing market demands. We’ve been doing that since day one. The Mediapoint trade printing story started in our lounge room and we haven’t stopped growing in over 17 years.

Print Equipment in the Family Home Melbourne — *Our first workshop was in the family home!*

Mediapoint Trade Print Warehouse Melbourne — *Just a small corner of our Melbourne commercial printing facility.*

Maintaining constant feedback loops with our clients, investing in quality equipment, and pivoting to a true ‘trade only’ business model might seem simple – but it’s not as common as you might think. We’ve always been transparent with our pricing, our Lean service model and our processes and will continue to do so well into the future.

With Mediapoint as your printing partner, you can concentrate on growing your business, secure in the knowledge that we’re here to deliver the best in trade printing services.

Put us to the test – sign up for an account today to view our range of products and see just how much you can save on trade printing services without sacrificing quality.

4 Key Considerations of High-Volume Label and Sticker Printing

Posted on September 12, 2023February 29, 2024 by Jamie Xuereb

Like any job that requires a trade printer, there are numerous factors to consider when it comes to high-volume label and sticker printing.

Here we dive into the a few considerations for print resellers and brokers to achieve the best outcome on this growing market sector. From material selection, to design and application considerations – we touch on it below.

Material Selection for High-Volume Label and Sticker Printing

One of the most critical decisions when printing labels and stickers is choosing the right material. The material used can greatly affect the appearance, durability, and functionality of the labels. Some common options include paper, vinyl, polyester, and polypropylene. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages. Some materials also don’t lend themselves to high-volume label printing due to fragility or useful life.

For instance, paper is affordable and versatile but lacks the durability of vinyl or polypropylene. Your choice should largely depend on the product’s environment, lifespan, and exposure to elements such as water, UV light, or chemicals.

At Mediapoint we can also offer high quality BOPP for stickers. This opens up a range of applications and extends the effective life of labels. So, no matter what the end user requires – you can make it happen!

Label Design Considerations

The design of your labels and stickers is another crucial factor to consider. Ensure that the design is clear, readable, and eye-catching, especially for product labels that serve as a vital marketing tool. It’s also important to consider color consistency.

Different print shops use different colour models like CMYK or Pantone Matching System (PMS). Understanding the differences between these models will help ensure your design colours match your expectations.

With the aforementioned BOPP, we can now even offer White ink printing which can really make things POP. White ink enhances CMYK colours, making them solid and vibrant. You can see the difference in the image below:

High volume sticker and label printing produced for outdoor application with white Ink and without. — *See how the colours are more vibrant and opaque when utilising white ink under CMYK* on BOPP.

Sticker Adhesive Options for High-Volume Label Printing

The type of adhesive used in your labels and stickers is another key consideration. Some adhesives are designed for permanent application, while others are made to be removable or repositionable. The choice of adhesive should depend on how and where the label or sticker will be used.

For example, if you’re printing labels for food packaging, you’ll likely need an adhesive that can withstand refrigeration or freezing. If you’re creating stickers for a display or installation that might be moved – you’ll want to use a weaker adhesive (or have duplicate stickers prepared).

Size and Shape of Stickers

The size and shape of your labels and stickers can greatly influence their cost, effectiveness, and design. If your labels are too large or small, they may not fit properly on the product. Irregular or complex shapes can also present challenges during application, particularly if the labels are to be applied by machine.

At Mediapoint we have the largest range of options when it comes to sizes and shapes of stickers. That means resellers can offer their customers high-volume label printing without worrying about whether they can deliver. Artwork can be submitted and proofed online making high volume label and sticker printing a breeze. Our order portal will provide instant notification that the sticker shape / size can be produced.

To view our range of label and sticker options (and live pricing) simply register for an account today.