Products Archives

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.

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 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.

Why BOPP is the Top Choice for Stickers & Labels

Posted on August 4, 2023February 29, 2024 by Jamie Xuereb

Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP) is an incredibly durable plastic – making it perfect for printing applications. We discuss the benefits below.

When it comes to label and sticker printing, picking the right material is a key consideration. One option that consistently outperforms others is Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene. This material, known in industry circles as BOPP, offers great durability, flexibility, sustainability and cost-effectiveness.

It’s also a tried and tested material that’s been around for several decades. Even if you didn’t know the name – you’ve likely encountered something printed using BOPP. So, let’s dive into why clear BOPP should be a go-to material of choice when printing labels and stickers…

BOPP is Designed for Excellence

In simple terms, BOPP is a plastic film stretched in two directions during production. This dual-direction orientation increases BOPP’s strength and flexibility. That gives it superior characteristics that make it a cut above the rest for various applications. Perhaps the most common is for labelling and packaging – where it provides a canvas for incredible clarity of print and eye-catching colour.

BOPP Labels on rolls — *BOPP Labels on Rolls*

The benefits don’t end there:

Firstly, BOPP is a printer’s dream. Whether water-based or solvent-based inks are required, BOPP labels can handle it, delivering crisp, clear images and text. It can even handle white ink with clarity – something unique in label printing.
BOPP is particularly resilient – it can stand up to water, oil, a variety of chemicals, and UV light, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. That’s why most labels on goods exposed to challenging conditions (like in kitchens, bathrooms, or outdoor environments) use this material.
There is also versatility when it comes to the overall appearance of a label / sticker. It can produce crystal-clear labels for see-through packaging or opaque labels for designs that require a solid colour backdrop.

BOPP stickers in outdoor application — *BOPP Stickers in Outdoor Application Showcasing Opaque and Transparent Capabilities*

Comparing other Label Materials with BOPP

So how does this material stack up against the common alternatives you’ll find listed at print shops?

Paper Labels

Paper labels are generally cheaper to produce but they just can’t compete with BOPP’s resilience to water, oil, and other harsh conditions. Even better, BOPP stickers are more tear and scratch-resistant than paper alternatives. The useful life of paper is also far shorter than this plastic alternative.

Vinyl Stickers

Vinyl stickers have become more and more popular in recent times. It’s likely that the brand stickers you see adorning many laptops and cars are vinyl. This material also holds up pretty well over a longer term – however BOPP still edges it out on durability. Despite being thinner, this plastic doesn’t compromise on durability or strength, and in fact – it makers it easy to cut, peel, and apply.

BOPP Stickers and Label Printing At Mediapoint

With its strong features, versatility, and competitive edge, it stands as a top choice for labels. As we strive towards a future where resilience, functionality, and sustainability are more important than ever, BOPP continues to demonstrate its value. We can help you unlock its potential and produce the best quality stickers the best prices.

In fact we recently installed Australia’s finest printing equipment for label and sticker printing. This advanced piece of kit, complements our expertise and can handle all your BOPP printing needs. Whether you need only a handful of labels or are looking to cater to organisations requiring large quantities, Mediapoint is your go-to trade printer.

Create an account today to access trade pricing on stickers and labels. Click here to get started!

Introducing an Exciting New Product: White Ink Printing for Clear BOPP!

Posted on July 5, 2023February 29, 2024 by Jamie Xuereb

At Mediapoint, we’re thrilled to announce the addition of white ink printing on Clear BOPP, available both on sheets and rolls. Our state-of-the-art Durst Tau printer utilizes UV White ink, allowing us to print an impressive 900 square meters of white ink per hour.

But why is white ink so important? Well, when it comes to printing on dark backgrounds, white ink plays a crucial role in achieving solid, vibrant colors. By incorporating white ink alongside CMYK, we can make your designs truly pop. To illustrate the difference, take a look at our real-world examples below.

In the first photo, we’ve placed a sample sticker with white ink on a standard window, while a standard CMYK label without white ink serves as a comparison. Notice how the white ink enhances the CMYK colors, making them more solid and vibrant, whereas the non-white ink sample appears washed out and barely visible.

To ensure the best results, we recommend positioning your white ink slightly offset beneath the CMYK layer. This adjustment helps align the colors and eliminates any visible white edges, resulting in a seamless and professional finish.

Even on a dark black background, our white ink remains strong and impactful compared to other digital inks. You can trust that your designs will stand out brilliantly, leaving a lasting impression on your audience.

We’ve also received inquiries from resellers about covering text or images. In the image above, you’ll notice the combination of CMYK with white ink underneath, as well as an example of white ink solely covering black text. It’s important to note that this technique does not provide complete blockout coverage; some showthrough may still occur.

With our white ink printing capability, you can unlock a whole new level of creativity and visual impact. Get in touch with us today to explore the possibilities and elevate your print reselling business to new heights.

To register to our Orders system and get pricing on White Ink Labels for your customer, Register Here.

Flat Fee Shipping For Trade Large Format Printing

Posted on June 7, 2023February 29, 2024 by Jamie Xuereb

We’re introducing flat fee shipping for trade large format printing – read on to learn how to claim this fantastic deal.

We are regularly speaking with. and listening to the feedback of, our print resellers and brokers. Over the last few years a consistent pain point has been varying shipping costs. Particularly when it comes to shipping large format printing ordered through our PrintIQ system.

So we’re introducing something that is sure to make life easier (and make savings bigger)…

FLAT FEE SHIPPING TO CERTAIN METRO AREAS

We have introduced flat fee shipping for large format printing to certain metro postcodes within the following cities:

Melbourne
Sydney
Brisbane
Adelaide

PARAMETERS ON FLAT FEE SHIPPING FOR LARGE FORMAT PRINTING

Of course, we need to make this deal fair and equitable for all parties. So there are a few requirements to claim flat fee shipping for trade large format printing from Mediapoint.

Flat fee is available for board jobs under 150cm x 120cm in size.
This freight method uses budget carriers such as Couriers Please and TFM in postcodes they are strong in.
- Please note we do not guarantee a date of delivery with this freight method. Unfortunately it is out of our control. There will be no recourse action on any deliveries until 21 business days after the date of dispatch. We do however, expect that this issue would only occur in rare instances.

HOW TO ACCESS

When quoting in PrintIQ, any postcodes and job sizes which fit into these parameters will default to the new ‘Economy – Road‘ option. This is the option for flat feee shipping for large format printing.

If you do not want this to apply you will need to select an alternative freight option.

If you have any questions about this new freight option please email us on trade@mediapoint.com.au

Labels on Rolls: New Opportunities Coming Soon

Posted on April 2, 2023February 29, 2024 by Jamie Xuereb

The purchase of the Durst Tau by Mediapoint isn’t just exciting for us – it’s good news for Australian print resellers. This state-of-the-art printer is designed to print a plethora of products at a high quality and high volume. We’re particularly excited to finally be able to offer labels on rolls from day one of operation. This adds a new capability (and product) to our ever-expanding facility and means quick, efficient printing of stickers / labels is more accessible than ever to the Australian market.

Resellers Can Take on Bigger Orders for Labels on Rolls

Adding another product line – particular one that is in high demand – is another way we’re helping print resellers to scale their business.

By investing in the Durst Tau, Mediapoint is enabling customers to optimise their workflow, fill production gaps and offer affordable label printing to their customers. Thanks to the ability to print on a wide range of materials, print brokers can offer their customers a wide range of sizes and styles. Plus, as it will be the first in Australia to be fully automated (and integrated with our existing systems) significant savings can be passed on.

So not only are we quadrupling our print capacity overall, we can now offer sticker and label printing at a competitive rate, with the fastest turnaround.

Keep an Eye Out for Labels on Rolls In Our New System

When the printer is up and running, resellers can register into our new Orders system and can simply log into our self-serve portal to order. As usual, you can expect live, 24/7 quoting and quick turnaround on all label orders.

Resellers won’t have to wait around with an industry-leading 2-day turnaround on any labels on roll orders. Increased margins, reduced turnaround time and the ability to onsell high-volume label printing will give our partners a competitive advantage.

Not to mention that it could lead to new customers, whilst offering more value to their existing clients. Whilst label / sticker printing may seem like an innocuous addition, it will allow Mediapoint and our customers to maximise their value proposition.

Want to Be First In Line?

This is significant step-forward for us and Australian print resellers. If you’d like to be one of the first to offer and order labels on rolls with all the usual benefits of trade printing – register your interest here.

Colour Matching For Your Customers Jobs

Posted on July 9, 2022October 4, 2022 by Jamie Xuereb

By watching the above video, you can get an overview of the full process we use at Mediapoint for Colour Matching.

Put Pantone C colours in your files

It is important that in your files you only put Solid Coated Pantone colours in your file. Our profiles will detect this and do a spot replacement to the closest possible match.

If you are using CMYK values or another type of Pantone colour, our profile will not detect this and do the spot replacement.

Picking A Pantone Colour

When picking a Pantone colour, it is ideal to use a Pantone Bridge Book.

A Pantone bridge book as the actual Pantone colour on the left-hand side as well as the closest possible match in a 4 colour digital printing process on the right hand side. The right-hand side is the closest colour we can hit to the Pantone colour and is what our profile aims to replicate.

If You Need an Exact Match

If you have an ultra-fussy customer and needing exact colour matching the only way to this is to get a match off a colour chart printed on the exact same press and stock as the job you will be printing.

If you have these requirements speak to us about organising a time to be able to match off one of our charts.

What If You Want to Check the Colour Before The Main Job Is Printed?

At Mediapoint we offer free printed samples on order over $1000+GST. For orders under this limit there is a $40+GST. This will give you piece of mind before the main order goes through.

Why Can’t Some Colours Be Matched?

With digital printing we are limited to using 4 (CMYK) and 6 (CMYKLcLm) Inks to make a colour. Pantones are made using 16 colours. These extra colours are needed to create a wider ink colour gamut to hit certain pantones.

Even with 4 and 6 coloured inks to use we hit a very high colour score which we calibrate regularly.

It is also important to note that on our Flatbed Printer, we print with an Uncoated UV ink which has a lower colour gamut than glossy colours and ink.

Find out more about the products we offer with colour matching.