There is no denying the continuous growth of the craft brew industry. As consumer demand increases, so does the number of craft brew products entering the market each year. If you are new to the industry, you may realize the need to make your product stand out from competitors.
Once you have perfected your beer brewing process, you may feel excited to get your product into the hands of consumers. However, this process is more complex than it seems. Firstly, you have to choose how to package your product, whether it’s in a can, bottle, or another container. Next, you need to create a beautifully designed product label. Then, you must select the type of label, materials, and find a reliable labeling partner.
For someone entering the craft brew process for the first time, this may seem confusing and overwhelming. However, every step is critical in helping your product stand out. Consumers want high-quality beer products, but they cannot taste the content before purchase. Hence, having a luxurious bottle and a beautifully designed label is crucial to attract potential customers.
With more craft brew products entering the market each year, finding ways to differentiate your product from competitors can be challenging. However, having a well-designed and properly applied label on your beer bottles is a great start. Selecting the right label can be difficult, so we want to help you by weighing the pros and cons of different types of beer bottle labels.
Hand Labels
When launching your product, you may consider doing everything yourself. Bottle labels are available for purchase from various online retailers. However, while it may seem like a quick and easy option, it has its drawbacks.
Pros
These labels are inexpensive and readily available from online retailers.
Many premade bottle labels offer customization options, allowing you to include your design when purchasing.
If you choose to create labels by hand, you can select the exact materials you want.
Cons
The application process is not professional. Applying premade labels by hand is inconsistent and will not make your product stand out. Inaccurate label application leads to wasted money and product.
Premade templates do not allow you to choose high-quality label and adhesive materials. Low-quality materials may cause labels to peel, tear, or bubble after application.
There is a high risk of receiving a poorly designed label if you choose customization at the time of purchase. Your design may appear blurry, cut off, or inaccurate.
Front and Back Labels
Front and back labels are great options for beer bottle labels. This type allows you to showcase your product while displaying your design. It is a common style for craft brew products.
Pros
Front and back labels display both the beer product and label design, taking up less space on the container.
If you want a unique label shape, front and back labels are generally more customizable, especially for die cuts.
Less material waste compared to other label types.
Cons
They use adhesive, which may cause labels to peel or fall off.
Paper labels may be more prone to tearing compared to using shrink sleeve labelers for canned craft brew.
Front and back labels may not fully showcase a more complex artwork design.
Wrap Around Labels
Wrap around labels simply wrap around the entire beer bottle. They are commonly used in the craft brew industry.
Pros
Wrap around labels have a classic and traditional style, making potential customers feel familiar with your product.
Efficient application compared to DIY labeling.
Wrap around labeling machines use less product compared to shrink sleeve labelers for beer cans, resulting in cost savings.
Cons
Getting a unique label shape may be more challenging with this style.
Like front and back labels, they use adhesive, which may cause labels to peel or tear.
Wrap around labels often cover most of the beer bottle, making it less visible to consumers.
