There’s more to printing labels and packaging than meets the eye. The inks they’re made with might not be the first thing you think about when you pick up a product, but for brands and manufacturers looking for a competitive edge, no detail is too small.

UV inks go beyond the limits of conventional ones and help solve some of the most common label challenges. Here are a few reasons why brands are making the switch.

How UV Inks Reduced Label Cost Without Sacrificing Quality

The Customer’s Challenge

“We need to bring down our label costs, but we can’t afford to lose the look or feel our customers expect.”

QAL’s Solution

Our team rolled up their sleeves and dug into the label structure, looking for opportunities to trim costs without cutting quality. 

The answer? 

Swapping traditional lamination for durable, glossy UV varnish.

Hesitation is a natural reaction to change. They’d tried something similar before and wound up with labels that were easily scuffed and marred during production.

We walked them through the science of how UV inks work, why they are a great choice, and ran a trial directly on their line to alleviate their worries.

The result: a 5% cost reduction, with no compromise on appearance or durability.

Why It Worked

UV inks cure into a solid, protective layer, like an armor shield for your label. 

Add a UV gloss varnish, and you’ve got a finish that can handle the bumps of shipping and look great while doing it. All without the extra cost or waste of lamination.

Packaging That Chemicals Can’t Harm 

The Customer’s Challenge

“Our current labels bleed when exposed to chemicals. We need something tougher.”

QAL’s Solution

A quick look at their existing labels pulled back the curtain and exposed water-based inks as the culprit.

To highlight why UV inks could be the right choice, we set up a head-to-head test to prove that they are far more resilient once fully cured.

After seeing the difference firsthand, they made the switch to UV inks and haven’t looked back.

Why It Worked

UV inks are cured with ultraviolet light, transforming them from liquid to a solid, plastic-like finish.

This process locks in the ink on the label, making it resistant to chemical exposure and environmental stress. 

Simply put, UV inks don’t run, bleed, or smear, no matter what they’re up against

Labels with Consistent, On-Brand Color, Time After Time.

The Customer’s Challenge

“We can’t afford color inconsistencies. Our brand colors need to be spot-on, every time.”

QAL’s Solution

It’s easy to say that UV inks deliver unbeatable good looks. We invited the customer to join us for the first print run so they could see it for themselves.

This hands-on process gave them confidence that every order and label would be made and delivered with bold, consistent colors that matched their requirements.

Why It Worked

UV inks cure quickly, locking the color and pigment directly into the label. 

Unlike solvent or water-based inks, UV inks are stable and predictable. That means what you see on the press is what you’ll see on the shelf, run after run.

Supporting Sustainability Goals

The Customer’s Challenge

“We want our packaging to be as eco-friendly as possible.”

QAL’s Solution

We matched an ethically sourced film to the customer’s container, then applied UV inks and coatings.

Why It Worked

UV inks cure into a solid that won’t leach into groundwater or release harmful VOCs during printing. 

It’s a win for your brand and a win for the environment.

Why UV Label Inks Are Worth a Closer Look

  • Cost-Effective: Reducing expenses doesn’t mean cutting back on quality.
  • Durability: Curing adds superior protection against scuffs, scratches, and chemicals.
  • Consistent Results: On-brand colors and visuals won’t degrade with time or exposure to chemicals or the elements.
  • Eco-Friendly: Low-emission printing and renewable formulations 

Good labels start with the right ink. Whether you’re looking to cut costs, boost performance, or meet sustainability goals, UV inks offer a smart, forward-thinking solution. 

Want to see how UV inks could work for your next project? Contact us to find the perfect fit for your brand.

FAQs

What are UV inks, and how do they work?

UV inks are specially formulated inks that transform from liquid to a solid when exposed to UV light for a durable, high-quality finish that looks good and lasts.

How do UV inks compare to water-based or solvent-based inks?

Unlike traditional inks, UV formulations cure instantly, provide excellent durability, resist chemicals, and maintain consistent color. They also don’t emit VOCs during production, making them a more environmentally friendly choice.

Can UV inks help reduce my label costs?

Absolutely. Without the need for extra materials like laminates or overcoats, UV inks can help lower your overall label costs without sacrificing quality or performance.

Do UV inks for labels fade or change color over time?

Color stability is one of the stand-out features of UV formulations. Because they cure instantly and aren’t affected by environmental variables, you can count on vibrant, consistent color from the first label to the last.

Are there any limitations to using UV inks for labels?

UV inks are incredibly versatile, but the needs of every project might require a different choice to get the best results. Our team can help you determine what UV inks are the best fit for what you need.

How do I get started with UV inks for my labels?

Quality labels aren’t just what we do. They’re part of who we are. Our team is ready to provide the answers you need at every step of the process. 

We’re looking forward to working with you. Contact us today to get started.