The U.S. supplement market is vast—so how should nutrition supplement labels be designed to better meet its demands?
- Introduction and Upgrading of Advanced Production Equipment
Equipment is the foundational factor influencing production speed. Traditional label production machinery has limitations in both efficiency and precision. Introducing advanced equipment can significantly boost production speed.
High-speed rotary printing presses are key to improving printing efficiency. Compared to traditional machines, these presses operate at several hundred meters per minute, using continuous printing to minimize downtime and adjustments. For instance, the Mark Andy series of high-speed rotary presses, driven by servo motors, offer both high-speed output and precise registration, reducing defect rates and rework caused by print quality issues—thereby indirectly enhancing productivity.
In the die-cutting stage, automated die-cutting machines also play a vital role. Traditional die-cutting relies on manual operation, which is time-consuming and error-prone. Automated machines perform die-cutting according to preset programs, offering higher speed and precision. Some advanced models also include automatic waste removal, eliminating the need for manual cleanup and saving considerable time.
- Optimization and Restructuring of the Production Workflow
Optimizing production processes is central to increasing label production speed. Companies should review and improve the entire workflow—from order intake, design, printing, and post-processing to final delivery.
At the order-processing stage, establishing standardized procedures for order intake and review is essential. Clearly defined information and review standards can reduce the time lost to back-and-forth communication due to incomplete or incorrect orders. Implementing information systems to automate order entry and transfer minimizes human error and delay.
Pre-printing preparations also require optimization. Design and layout can be streamlined by using templates—creating specific design templates for different types of supplement labels reduces design time. Advanced imposition software can automate layout, improving efficiency and material usage. For ink and plate preparation, maintaining inventory systems for commonly used inks and plates ensures sufficient supply and shortens preparation time.
During production, parallel operations can effectively boost efficiency. For example, while printing is ongoing, preparations for post-processing (e.g., die cutter setup, film lamination materials) can be made, allowing different stages to connect seamlessly and minimize idle time.
- Application of Intelligent and Digital Technologies
Smart and digital technologies are increasingly critical for accelerating supplement label production.
Introducing intelligent production management systems, such as Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), allows real-time monitoring and management of the production process. MES systems collect data on equipment status, production progress, and product quality, then analyze it to support fast decision-making. Managers can quickly spot issues and take corrective action, ensuring smooth operations. Additionally, MES can automatically optimize scheduling based on order priorities and equipment availability, improving resource utilization.
In the printing and inspection stages, digital technologies also play a crucial role. Digital printing eliminates the need for plate-making, enabling quick turnaround on small or customized orders and shortening production cycles. Automated inspection systems using machine vision can detect issues like color deviation, misregistration, or print defects in real time. When problems are found, the system alerts operators and automatically removes defective labels, avoiding the subjectivity and low efficiency of manual inspection, while also reducing rework and downtime caused by quality issues.
- Employee Training and Management Optimization
Employees are key to the production process. Improving their skills and efficiency is essential to increasing production speed.
Companies should establish comprehensive training plans tailored to different roles. For printing operators, training should include equipment operation, printing parameter adjustments, and common troubleshooting. For post-processing workers, focus areas should be die-cutting, lamination techniques, and quality control. Such training enhances staff proficiency and problem-solving ability, thus speeding up production.
In terms of management, a well-structured performance evaluation system can effectively motivate staff to work more efficiently. KPIs can include production speed, product quality, and equipment maintenance. Reward high-performing employees and provide coaching and supervision to those underperforming. At the same time, a positive work environment fosters engagement and teamwork, boosting overall productivity.
