1:45-2:00pm RFID & Smart Packaging Solutions Dave Canaris
2:00-2:30pm Q&A and Adjourn Lori Burke & Beth Fahs
Leave today with IDEAS
Your objective is to learn & our objective is to plant seeds for creativity!
Each technology is different, and each has unique capabilities. Pay close attention to their differences.
Our label technology offers different solutions depending on the objective for your container, product,
and consumer engagement.
MCC Overview
Steve Whitaker Executive VP of Sales
MCC at a glance
Today, MCC is proud to be the largest premium label provider and one of the most award-winning label printers in the world.
Established in 1916
$3.2 billion in revenue
Headquartered in Atlanta, GA, USA
12,000+ global employees
100+ plants
25+ countries and 6 continents
Servicing UL Across US and LATAM
• Batavia, OH
• Lafayette Hill, PA
• Scottsburg, IN
• Rochester, NY
• Guadalajara, Mexico
• Montreal, Canada
The right label application no matter which product.
MCC offers an array of label solutions with distinct features and benefits.
Pressure Sensitive
MCC OptiCoat - vertically integrated coating and adhesive solutions. Laminations and varnishes can protect against product chemicals and moisture
Shrink Sleeves
360° coverage for maximum branding and unique container contours and tamper protection
In-Mold Labeling
Highly durable, direct-decorated looking labels
Heat Transfer
Direct-decorated look with late-stage application or flexibility and durability
Cut & Stack
A cost-effective and versatile wrap or spotapplied label available in paper or film
Booklets / Multi-Ply
Add regulatory requirements, instructions, multiple languages and more onto your product
One partner, five print technologies.
With our complete range of print technologies, MCC can help you achieve all packaging goals and support any product launch. We can also accommodate quantities ranging from small promotional runs to large-volume production of flagship products.
Flexographic Rotogravure Lithography Digital Rotary screen
Compatible with many label upgrades
High quality and economical choice for long runs Incredible versatility and excellent quality
Near-perfect registration and exciting personalization opportunities
Specializes in tactile and high-opacity ink on a variety of substrates
Going beyond standard labels.
We make it easy to improve the appearance or function of your label with a wide selection of enhancements.
Embellishments
Explore decorative capabilities to set your label apart
Games & Promotions
Incorporate interactive labels to drive consumer engagement
Smart Labels & RFID
Offer interactive technology and track-and-trace capabilities
Functional Labels
Add functionality and value, such as extended content, smart tops, and more
Individualization
Include unique graphics or variable data printing
Sustainable Constructions
Reduce material usage and improve recyclability (PET and glass)
Strategic growth for a vibrant future.
Since its inception in 1916, MCC has continuously added new print technologies and innovations that have augmented our ability to serve customers.
In recent years, we have exponentially grown our global footprint and capabilities through strategic mergers and acquisitions.
OCTOBER
2017
MCC acquires Constantia Labels to leverage their European operational footprint and assets.
JULY 2021
MCC is acquired by Clayton, Dubilier & Rice, a private investment firm with a 40-year track record in strengthening and growing industrial enterprises.
NOVEMBER
2021
MCC merges with the Fort Dearborn Company to offer a diverse portfolio of technologies, geographic markets, and customers.
JULY 2019
A merge with WS Packaging allows MCC to present an even more comprehensive suite of label solutions.
OCTOBER 2021
MCC enhances its presence in Australia and New Zealand by acquiring Hexagon Label Group.
DECEMBER
2021
MCC bolsters its footprint in Europe and Thailand by acquiring seven facilities from Skanem Group.
OCTOBER
2022
The acquisition of Flexcoat Autoadesivos S.A. expands MCC’s label and lamination offerings in South America.
APRIL
2023
Acquiring Korsini out of Turkey strengthens MCC’s presence in the In-Mold Label (IML) market.
OCTOBER
2024
MCC acquires Starport Technologies, a leading provider of smart label and RFID solutions, strengthening MCC’s RFID capabilities.
DECEMBER
2022
MCC acquires LUX Global Label to grow our home and personal care, and pharmaceutical markets.
OCTOBER
2023
MCC acquires Greece-based Karydakis to complement its IML porfolio in Europe, Middle East, and Africa.
DECEMBER
2024
MCC acquires Mexicanbased Eximpro, a premier manufacturer and printer of shrink sleeves.
Plant Tour
Pre-Press, GO, Press Technologies
Here at MCC, YOUR Safety is Our #1 Priority
At MCC, we believe in Safety first.
During you visit we need to ensure your personal Safety.
Please follow our rules as outlined and stay with your host.
Alarms:
• In case of fire: Evacuate the building.
• In case of severe weather: Shelter in place.
PPE: Personal Protective Equipment, Safety glasses and Steel Toe Shoes are required.
Stay alert for fork-lift.
Be aware of your surroundings and help us to ensure that your experience in our facility is nothing but positive.
Emergency Action Plan (EAP)
Lafayette Hill Rally Point Locations
Rally Point C Front side of Building near the Light Post at Driveway Exit
First Shift 6am to 2pm
After 2pm:
All Employees including Visitors & Contractors, Report to Rally Point B
Break 11:45-12:15PM
Labels 101
Zach Witwer Technical Manager, PSL
Damon Lloyd Project Leader, PSL
Consumer impressions are fast & visual
90 Seconds From initial interaction to product decision[1]
55% Of first impressions are visual[2]
[1] Singh, S.(2006), "Impact of color on marketing", Management Decision, Vol. 44 No. 6, pp. 783-789.
[2] US Chamber of Commerce (2016)
[3] Willis, J. & Todorov, A (2006) “First Impressions: Making up your mind after a 100-Ms exposure to a face. Assoc for Psychological Science Vol17, Issue 7 July 2006
0.1 seconds to make a first impression[3]
Pressure Sensitive
(It’s not a “sticker”)
What is a Pressure Sensitive Label?
A multi-layered construction
Why Choose Pressure Sensitive?
• Customizable, highly versatile across markets, print technologies & ink systems
• Compatible with a wide range of container and packaging materials
• Permanent, removable and repositionable options
• Easy application technique
• Late-stage differentiation
• On-pack Games/Rewards
• Replace Cut & stack
• PS applicator systems available if needed A versatile choice to differentiate brands.
Attracting the Consumer
Customers that pick up a product are more likely to place in their cart than return to shelf!
ENGAGING CONSUMERS THROUGH THEIR SENSES
• Matte/gloss
• Combination
• Soft touch
• High build
• Unique substrates
• Wood
• Felt
• Leather
• Metallized
• Soft touch
• Scratch and sniff
• Printed scents
• Rotary embossed
• Soft-touch coating
INTERACTING WITH CONSUMERS
On-Pack Promotions
Instant coupons, extended content, hang tags
In-Pack Promotions
Overwrapped inserts (direct food contact)
Near-Pack Promotions
Buck slips, coupons, takeone pads, scratch off
INTRODUCING:
MCC OptiCoat
A vertically-integrated, fully customizable coating solution for Pressure Sensitive materials used to provide optimal outcomes for both the customer and MCC.
Compatible film materials: Production locations: Competitive advantages:
Shrink Sleeve Label
What is a Shrink Sleeve Label?
A polymeric film that shrinks to the contours of the container when heat is applied
Film choice is impacted by choice of container. We can help you choose well.
Polyolefin
Why Choose a Shrink Sleeve?
• Contoured fit that maximizes graphic real estate.
• Allows for 360-degree decoration
• Contour fitting to various container shapes
• Scuff resistant with reverse printed graphics
• Promotional tool
• Embellish with metallics, specialty inks, thermochromic, scratch & smell
• Decorate empty or filled containers
• Protect product inside the container i.e. light blocking
• Combine label & tamper evident features
• Hold multi-packs together
Attracting the Consumer
Customers that pick up a product are more likely to place in their cart than return to shelf!
ENGAGING CONSUMERS THROUGH THEIR SENSES
• Embossing with raised emblems
• Create textured patterns and grip
• Proprietary inks that maintain brilliance of foil at high shrink
• Cold foil in low shrink areas with stable backing
INTERACTING WITH CONSUMERS
Utilize the caps
Add graphics or marketing message with unique label + high torque adhesive (patented)
Protecting consumers
Tamper bands help to protect contents and add billboard space
Easier recycling
Support sustainability and engage consumers with perforated zippers
In-Mold Labels
What is an In-Mold Label?
Label construction
Blow mold labels
• Applied during extrusion blow molding process
• Typically used for narrow opening containers
Printed ink
Topcoat Substrate
(Special Bond Layer, B-IML)
• Decoration takes place in the mold
• IML labels for front and back are inserted into the mold
• Molten polymer fuses with the in-mold label
• The result is a decorated container produced in one step
• HDPE most dominant, but PP and other plastics exist
Injection mold labels
• Applied during injection molding process
• Wide opening containers i.e. cups, tubs, pails, lids
• Used for parts, multi-paneled applications, and functioningclosures
Offset printing delivers high-resolution images, allowing for decoration of all container sides with a single label.
Strong and Hygienic
In-mold labels withstand humidity and temperature changes, making them ideal for plastic containers used for frozen and refrigerated items. They are also scratch-resistant, unbreakable, and wrinkle-free.
Shorter Production Time and Lower Total Costs
The in-mold labeling process combines production and decoration in one step, eliminating the need for storage of blank containers and reducing associated costs.
Environmentally-Friendly, Mono-Material
In-mold labeling is eco-friendly, as both the packaging and label are made of the same recyclable material.
Variety of Look & Feel Options
A wide array of materials, inks, and lacquers can be used to enhance the same plastic packaging, helping to distinguish your product on shelves.
Quick Design Changeovers
Switching label designs is efficient with IML automation, resulting in minimal production loss during new design startups.
Premiumization with IML-Portfolio
Cut & Stack Labels
Cut & Stack Labels
BENEFITS
Most economical label type
Standard labels and premium labels for enhanced shelf appeal
Variety of print options available
Multiple materials available including paper and film
Large installed high speed labeling equipment base
No liner waste after labeling
Substrates
• C1S & C2S Papers – Coated One Side or Two Sides
• Wet Strength C1S Papers
• Metalized Papers – above grades with metalized surface
Our structured approach to help solve our industry’s biggest challenges. Over 70% of MCC’s
For every label component, we look to:
1) reduce impact,
2) enable recycling, and 3) support reuse.
Standing out in a crowded market is an ongoing challenge. Our range of innovative embellishment options is poised to give your brand the look it deserves.
From increasing a label’s ability to withstand harsh conditions to maintain product’s freshness –these innovations check the boxes for form and function.
Building thefuture of labels
INKpression
A pressure sensitive labelthatcreates a label-less look
recycLABEL
Solutionsthat improve recyclability, including functional enhancements such as light-blocking
NOVA Inks
A rangeof gravure inks with customizable sheen, patterns,colors & effects
Smart Packaging
Premium solutions and technology to support serialization and RFID
In-Mold Labels
Enhancements in the IML space withNextCycleIML, SealPPeel, and Molded Fiber Labeling
Premiumization
Attracting consumers
R&D Press Capabilities
Nilpeter FA 17
• Press designed specifically for trialing innovation, new projects, and complex constructions
• Trials on the R&D press are constructed to be repeatable by our standard production presses
• 10 color press
• 2 Flexo, 1 Gravure, 4 Flexo,
1 Gravure, 2 Flexo
• Ability to reinsert web for second pass
• Ink curing options
• Hot air for Solvent and Aqueous inks
• UV and LED
- Two RSI Screen Units
- Cold foil equipment
- Two unwind/rewind towers
- Tower unwind w/closed loop tension
- Two Lamination nips
- Turn bar
- Rail mounted Telstar Hot foil/Die Unit
- Digital Print Bar (Color may be changed within 30 minutes)
- BST vision inspection system
Premiumization
30% Brand impact increases by If more than one sense is engaged
70% And by If 3 or more senses are engaged
Molten Foil DuraSculpt Soft Touch
NOVA Metallic Inks
Custom effects for stand-out shelf appeal
• Nova is a proprietary formulated range of metallic inks that offer spectacular decorative solutions for labeling
• Exhibits very high reflectance rivaling foil
• Can be blended with carefully selected transparent bases to create brilliant gold & custom metallic effects
• Brilliant & cost effective; it can also be blended with transparent colors to create gold & custom metallic colored effects
Americas Production
Lafayette Hill, PA, USA
Batavia, OH, USA
Scottsburg, IN, USA
Guadalajara, Mexico
Sao Paulo, Brazil*
EMEA Production
Heiligenstadt, Germany
Cwmbran, UK
Paarl, South Africa*
APAC Production
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
*
NOVA Effect Options
Full Spectrum of Shine Premium Effects & Patterns
NOVA Pearlescent Inks
Nova Pearlescent Inks create lustrous effects that retain hue regardless of viewing angle. It can be used in three principal ways:
• Clean pearl white effect ideal for personal care brands
• Ideal for creating brand identity across HPC brands in two forms:
• Spectacular spot colors
• Transparent colors plus white
• Nova pearlescent white can be used to enhance graphic images to provide dimension & highlight
Americas Production
Lafayette Hill, PA, USA
Batavia, OH, USA
Scottsburg, IN, USA
Guadalajara, Mexico
Sao Paulo, Brazil*
EMEA Production
Heiligenstadt, Germany
Cwmbran, UK
Paarl, South Africa*
APAC Production
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
* Production site in development
The INKpression Label
A pressure sensitive style label that creates a label-less look
Premium Appearance
• Thin application of ink and coating for a premium direct decorated look
• Embellishment options include tactile, metallic, and soft touch
• Capability for unique die-cuts and cut-outs
Efficient Application
• Reduces inventory of pre-printed containers
• Easily applied with existing PS equipment
• Minimizes potential wrinkling, darting, and peeling
• High speed application
Supports ESG goals
• Eliminates plastic facestock
• Reduced carbon footprint by ~60% vs. standard PSL
• Pairs with NOVA gravure metallic & specialty ink for added embellishments
Future opportunities with Unilever: Current direct decorated products that would benefit from just-in-time labelling but retaining premium aesthetic. Elevating existing PSL to direct decorated look.
Full Body Decoration
A proprietary label technology engineered to deliver seamless, 360° labeling for cylindrical containers
What is it?
A high-performance label construction designed to:
- Wrap smoothly around tubes, jars, and contoured forms, eliminating wrinkles and puckering over shoulders and curves
- Supports a wide range of premium embellishments, including metallic, pearlescent, iridescent effects, and tactile finishes
- Ideal for beauty, wellness, and home fragrance categories to enhance strong shelf impact
Key Benefits
- Reduces inventory by eliminating the need for predecorated tubes or jars
- High quality, premium look & feel
- Fixes common challenges seen with PS labels
- Cost-effective alternative to direct decor
Advantages of Full Body Decoration
Flexibility and Versatility
• 360-degree graphic canvas
• Faster speed to market for promotions and campaigns
• Bundling options for multiple products and promos
• Tactile and visual embellishments not possible with direct decoration
• Digital print technology for personalization
Improved Supply Chain Efficiency
Reductions in:
• Inventory from pre-decorated cans
• Obsolescence waste
• MOQ’s
• Lead times
Tactile Effects: High Build Coatings, Specialty Substrates
Development Status: Commercial
Adda thirddimension to yourlabel with theuseof tactile high-buildscreen inksandcoatings.
Textured substrates can enhance a tactile interaction with the consumer
• Wood veneer
• Metallized
• Linen
• Houndstooth
• Felt
• Faux Leather
NOTE: images are digitally enhanced to demonstrate effects
Cast and Cure
Description
Want the look of a hologram or subtle texture without breaking the bank? Our Cast and Cure process offers countless holographic or textural patterns in line.
Key features
Product identification
Entry-level security measures
Value-engineering
Scented Ink
Scented inks and coatings can be applied to specific graphic areas on the label.
Scratch to smell – The coatings can be activated through touch and can be reactivated hundreds of times.
Key features
• Leaves an enduring impact on your consumer. ‘Try’ the product’s scent before buying
• Encourages consumers to pick up your packaging at shelf, which leads to placing the item in their cart
• Available in a wide variety of colors and fragrances
Imagine these labels smelled as good as they look!
Resin Labels
Options & variations:
1. Seals
2. Ribbons
3. Full resin labels
4. Partial resin labels
5. Separated letters
6. Transparent
Key benefits:
Ultra-high tactile coating produced using patented process to deliver 3D, raised labels in roll format.
• Premiumization: Stand out on shelf with visual and tactile appeal
• Sustainability: Resin labels are compatible with the glass recycling process
Evaluating fiber-based alternatives to plastic RESEARCH FOCUS
Durable fusion and recyclability.
Molded Fiber Labels: sustainable paper labels for wet or dry fiber molded packaging
Flexible IML application In action:
• High resolution print quality
• Coating designed for optimal adhesion
• Glue-free for recycle/compost compatibility
• Pre-cut labels provide waste-free decoration
fully recyclable label Improved quality
RFID and Smart Packaging
Dave Canaris Sr. Business Development Manager, Smart Packaging Solutions
Leveraging Packaging in a Connected World
• By connecting the package, we can enhance the value of the product
• We can make it easier to locate, more trustworthy, understandable, and more relatable
• In some cases, we can even enhance its functions
RFID in Retail
Stages of an RFID Mandate
1. Laughter – typically the first reaction.....We gotta do what!?
2. Anger – depending on the department and stake holders, frustration ensues trying to understand how, where and why this is required.
3. Negotiation – once you've come to terms with the requirement, negotiation stage is next. Depending on the circumstances, negotiating certain SKUs or none of the SKUs should be required to add RFID.
4. Anger – your negotiation has failed to convince the retailer of why your products are not applicable, and anger settles in again.
5. Acceptance – you have now come to terms with what is being asked of you, with the help of your support team at MCC.
Exceptional service from mandate to approval.
Discovery
Identify which of your products are in scope by department
Review
MCC will review Walmart playbook with you to determine next steps
Design intent
Our RFID team will work with you to identify which approved inlay is best for your needs
Partnering with MCC means access to a range of services that go above and beyond industry standards to optimize your label and help navigate the process.
Build & Testing
We can get creative with tag testing and placement to ensure it will meet Walmart’s requirements.
Project Support
An MCC Project Manager will coordinate the finished label/tag spec through all stages
Ongoing support
MCC will produce needed samples and handle the approval submissions.
Functionality and Smart Packaging
Connecting consumers
Project Sunrise 2027: A
New Dimension of Barcodes for Retail
The retail industry has set a date to make the transition to accepting 2D barcodes at point-of-sale (POS)—referred to as Sunrise 2027, led by the GS1 Global Standards.
UPC codes have existed for the last 50 years and are limited to price lookup. Through Project Sunrise 2027, GS1 US® is helping both supply- and demand-side organizations and solution providers get started with a migration path toward the “new dimension” of barcodes.
The information carried by 2D barcodes can also help enable:
• Improved inventory management
• Enhanced recall readiness
• Greater sustainability and ethical sourcing practices
• Better traceability throughout supply chains
• Better product authentication
RESEARCH FOCUS
Helping brands build consumer connections
RFID & other Smart Labeling technologies: to enhance business performance
• Access to data to improve productivity, operational efficiency and reduce labor costs Connect products and customers everywhere easy access to rewards enhanced engagement & brand awareness increase in loyalty program followers
• RFID improves tracking, anti-counterfeiting, inventory management & more
• ENGAGETM customers with loyalty programs, rewards or coupons & understand preferences
• SECURETM for brand protection and product authentication throughout chain of custody
• TRACKTM for visibility into supply chain, inventory levels and shipping info in real-time
ENGAGETM: Automate customer loyalty with serialization In action.
Smart Packaging
Machine Readable
• 1D Barcodes
• 2D Barcodes Serialized or Non-Serialized
Radio Frequency (RF)
• EAS
• RFID
• NFC
Image Recognition
• Augmented Reality
• Digital Watermarks
Anti-Counterfeit: Secure Labels for Consumer Protection
$2 trillion worth of counterfeit products are sold online each year*
Brand Manufacturers access the SECURE dashboard for critical information including:
Detect false authentication attempts
Track diverted, duplicate, or fake products
Aid in identifying unauthorized resellers
Assist in fraud tracking and reporting to authorities
Enhance brand reputation and consumer credibility
Prevent financial loss and enable asset recovery
