By Dan Miller, Partner & Practice Leader

The labels industry has undergone a massive transformation in recent years, largely driven by advancements in digital technologies. One of the most significant shifts has been the rise of digital label printing. As businesses across industries embrace digital solutions for faster, more cost-effective, and highly customizable labels, the demand for skilled professionals in digital printing technologies, color management, and digital workflow optimization has skyrocketed.

The Shift Toward Digital Label Printing
Traditional label printing methods, such as flexographic and offset printing, have served the industry well for decades. However, these conventional techniques have limitations when it comes to producing small runs of highly personalized labels. As consumers increasingly demand custom, personalized products, manufacturers have found digital label printing to be the perfect solution.

Digital label printing, unlike its traditional counterparts, allows for printing directly from digital files without the need for printing plates. This not only reduces setup times but also enables companies to produce smaller batches of labels with varying designs at a fraction of the cost. As a result, businesses are able to cater to shifting consumer preferences while also improving operational efficiency.

In fact, according to a recent report by Smithers Pira, the digital label market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 10% between 2021 and 2026. This growth is largely driven by the increasing demand for shorter production runs, faster turnaround times, and a wider variety of label designs.

The Need for Skilled Talent in Digital Label Printing
As the demand for digital label printing continues to rise, companies are actively seeking professionals who can help them stay competitive. This has led to a growing need for talent with specialized skills in digital printing technologies, color management, and workflow optimization.

1. Digital Printing Technologies
Digital label printing is a complex field, and professionals with expertise in the latest digital printing technologies are essential. From inkjet and laser printers to more specialized digital printing technologies like electrophotography, these professionals must understand how to leverage different digital printing methods to achieve the highest-quality results.

Professionals experienced in digital printing can also help optimize the use of equipment and software, ensuring that businesses can maximize productivity while minimizing waste. As the technology evolves, the demand for experts in new digital printing techniques will only increase.

2. Color Management
In digital label printing, color consistency is paramount. Unlike traditional printing methods, where colors can be calibrated over large print runs, digital printing requires a different approach to maintain accurate color representation across varying jobs. With consumers increasingly paying attention to branding and packaging, getting the colors right is essential.

As a result, digital label printers must have a strong understanding of color theory, color management software, and the science behind color calibration. Skilled professionals can ensure that the printed labels match the intended colors and design specifications, whether the project involves a single label or thousands of copies.

3. Digital Workflow Optimization
With digital printing, businesses can streamline their production processes, but this requires a highly efficient workflow. Digital workflow optimization professionals are responsible for ensuring that each step of the process — from design to print production — is as efficient as possible. This includes overseeing the software, systems integration, and project management tools that help teams work together seamlessly.

In digital label printing, workflow optimization is essential not only to improve turnaround times but also to manage production costs. Professionals with expertise in managing digital workflows can help ensure that labels are produced on schedule, within budget, and to the highest possible quality standards.

As digital label printing continues to grow, the need for highly skilled professionals is becoming critical for companies hoping to stay ahead in the market. Professionals who specialize in digital printing technologies, color management, and workflow optimization play a pivotal role in making this growth possible.

For companies looking to hire talent in this space, it’s essential to focus on candidates with hands-on experience in digital printing systems and a deep understanding of the latest industry trends. Whether a company is looking for digital press operators, color experts, or workflow managers, investing in talent with these specialized skills is a key factor in maintaining quality and efficiency.

Digital label printing is not just a passing trend—it’s the future of the labels industry. As businesses strive to meet the growing demand for customizable, high-quality labels, they will need to rely on skilled professionals who are well-versed in the latest technologies and optimized workflows. For recruiters and hiring managers, the challenge is clear: the labels industry needs talent that can keep pace with this rapidly evolving landscape. By focusing on hiring professionals with expertise in digital printing, color management, and workflow optimization, businesses will be poised for continued success in a digital-first world.

As the market for digital labels expands, companies that invest in the right talent will be in the best position to take full advantage of the opportunities ahead.