linerless

Linerless refers to a type of pressure-sensitive label stock that is manufactured and wound on a roll without a separate release liner. In linerless labels, the adhesive is on the printable face, and the back of the stock carries a release coating that allows the material to run on a roll and be separated into individual labels during application. Because there is no liner backing to remove, the waste produced by traditional labels is reduced.

The stock is printed and then die-cut into individual labels while still on the roll. After printing, the roll carries a continuous sequence of labels with gaps or perforations to enable separation. When a label is needed, it is peeled or torn from the stock and applied to a product. Printing hardware used for linerless labels is typically designed to handle the unique needs of this stock, including tension control and accurate gap placement to ensure clean label separation.

Advantages of linerless labels include reduced material costs and waste, lower disposal requirements, and potentially increased labeling efficiency in high-volume operations. They can also offer higher label density on a roll and less storage space than conventional labeled rolls with liners. However, linerless systems require specialized printers and applicators capable of handling the stock’s characteristics, and there can be challenges with print quality, adhesive management, and edge curl. Not all printers and applications are compatible, so adoption tends to be driven by specific throughput, waste-reduction goals, and equipment investments.

Applications span sectors such as shipping, foods and beverages, and consumer-packaged goods, where high-volume labeling and reduced waste are advantageous. The technology continues to evolve with improvements in stock formulations, printing options, and automated application.