Ben Waldrop: Expert Insights on Century Printing & Packaging

22 Oct 2024

CP&P to Sponsor the Beer Tent at Greer Arts & Eats Festival

Photos by https://www.greerartsandeats.com/

Century Printing & Packaging believes that a strong community is the foundation of a successful business. The company has built deep roots in Greer, South Carolina, and this year, CP&P is proud to be part of the growing Greer Arts & Eats Festival by sponsoring one of its central attractions—the beer tent. The tent will feature craft beer from Southern Growl, a beloved local brewery that has been a CP&P customer for years.

Celebrating Local Culture

The Greer Arts & Eats Festival has quickly become a signature event for Greer. The festival brings together local artists, food vendors, musicians, and small businesses to celebrate the community’s creative spirit. First held in 2021, the festival has grown significantly, becoming a must-attend event for locals and visitors alike. It offers something for everyone, from art lovers to food enthusiasts and craft beer connoisseurs.

For CP&P, supporting the festival is about more than just sponsorship. It’s about being an active part of a vibrant community. The festival allows local businesses to connect, showcase their work, and interact with the people of Greer. By contributing to the success of Greer Arts & Eats, CP&P reinforces its commitment to the town’s cultural and economic growth.

Community involvement is a critical part of CP&P’s identity, and this sponsorship represents just one way the company gives back to the local area. Although CP&P is primarily a business-to-business (B2B) company, events like Greer Arts & Eats offer an in-person chance to engage directly with residents, fostering a relationship beyond business.

The relationship between CP&P and Southern Growl is a testament to the power of local collaboration. When Southern Growl first opened, CP&P reached out to offer support, and over the years, this relationship has blossomed into a strong partnership. Southern Growl, known for its high-quality craft beer and community involvement, has become a staple in the Greer area. By sponsoring the beer tent at Greer Arts & Eats, featuring Southern Growl’s craft beer, CP&P highlights its commitment to supporting local businesses that embody the entrepreneurial spirit driving Greer’s growth.

Why Local Support Matters to CP&P

CP&P’s deep involvement in the Greer community is reflected in its ongoing partnership with the Greer Chamber of Commerce. Over the years, the company’s leadership has been heavily involved in supporting local businesses, with Ben serving on the Chamber’s board multiple times and as chair in 2021. Neil and other team members have also participated in Leadership Greer, a program run through the chamber that develops local leaders and strengthens ties within the community.

Through their involvement with Leadership Greer, Neil and the team have gained a deeper understanding of the area’s needs and challenges. This has allowed CP&P to better align its efforts with the broader community. Century Printing & Packaging believes that being a small, locally focused business comes with the freedom and flexibility to invest in events that reflect their core values—giving back to the people who have contributed to their success. This approach sets them apart from larger corporations, allowing them to build genuine, lasting connections.

A Look to the Future

Century Printing & Packaging views its involvement in Greer Arts & Eats as more than event sponsorship—it’s part of their larger mission to support the growth of the greater Upstate of South Carolina. By sponsoring the beer tent, CP&P enhances the festival’s appeal and helps draw in more attendees, boosting the local economy. Featuring local favorite Southern Growl at the tent ensures festivalgoers can enjoy some of the best local brews, emphasizing the importance of supporting small, homegrown businesses.

Initially scheduled for an earlier date, the festival was postponed to October 26 due to the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene. Greer Arts & Eats has taken on even greater significance in the wake of such a challenging event. Beyond the food, art, and music, the festival offers a much-needed opportunity for the community to come together, heal, and reconnect. In difficult times, events like these help restore a sense of normalcy, giving neighbors, friends, and families a chance to gather and share in something positive.

In response to the storm’s devastation, Southern Growl canned water to donate to Helene’s hardest-hit areas. Recognizing the urgency and importance of this effort, CP&P contributed by donating the labels for the water cans. This initiative is a testament to the strength of local collaboration and the power of businesses coming together to make a difference when needed most.

While Southern Growl produced and distributed clean water—a crucial resource for storm-stricken communities—CP&P applied their expertise in packaging, ensuring that the aid was professionally packaged and recognizable. This collaboration highlights not just the business relationship between the two companies but also their shared commitment to supporting those in need. By working together, they deliver a message of solidarity and compassion to those affected by the hurricane.

Coming together like this is a powerful reminder of the resilience and compassion of small businesses in the Upstate of South Carolina. As a long-standing member of the Greer community, CP&P takes great pride in giving back and supporting the people and companies that make Greer a special place to live and work. Their dedication to the community, especially in times of need, is at the heart of everything they do.

20 Aug 2024

The Clear Choice: Mastering the Challenges of Transparent Labels

As attention spans for consumers get shorter and the push for environmental friendliness grows, product labels are expected to check many boxes. An increasing preference for a “no packaging” aesthetic has undoubtedly introduced a significant playing field for clear labels. These transparent labels effectively highlight products without occupying excessive packaging real estate, creating a more simplistic yet distinct display on shelves. However, producing these high-quality clear labels comes with challenges. For 27 years, the Century Printing and Packaging team has perfected the art of clear labeling, tackling these technical obstacles head-on. Their aptitude for finding solutions has armed them with the knowledge and techniques required to produce clear labels as an uptick in demand continues.

Clear labels can be used in various ways depending on what brands are looking to achieve. For example, brands aiming to reduce their environmental impact might want to consider a clear label over a more traditional label with a white background to showcase a cleaner, more sustainable appearance. Clear labels can also be a strategic choice when enhancing product visibility and standing out on shelves to consumers. These labels vary in clarity, ranging from slightly translucent to almost invisible, offering versatility depending on the product and packaging.

Despite the seemingly simple look, more goes on beneath the surface to achieve this sleek, modern appearance that resonates with today’s consumers.

The very nature of clear materials means that any coating or laminate must be carefully chosen and applied to avoid cloudiness or opacity. Century Printing and Packaging understands that even the slightest misstep can diminish the label’s clarity, compromising the “no packaging” look many clients seek. To achieve this, CP&P employs advanced techniques to ensure that protective layers enhance, rather than detract from, the label’s transparency.

Maintaining clarity in clear labels is crucial, but it goes beyond ensuring the material remains transparent. It also involves the label being applied correctly for the end user and firmly adhering to the packaging, considering factors such as the surface tension of the packaging material, the type of adhesive used, and the conditions under which the label will be applied. The label needs to not only look good but also perform well by adhering securely to various surfaces without peeling or bubbling. This balance between visual appeal and functional reliability is an aspect that CP&P strives to strike just right.

When it comes to successfully printing complex, colorful designs onto a clear label, behind-the-scenes skillfulness will prevent many problems from arising. Without a white background, colors can appear washed out, lacking the vibrancy crucial for an eye-catching label. To address this, a white ink underlay is applied, providing a bright base that allows the colors to pop. This technique requires precision in design and execution to ensure that the white ink is applied only to the necessary parts of the label without overpowering the design. In some cases, double hits of white can be used to achieve the desired opacity and color intensity.

Another technique CP&P utilizes is reverse printing, where the design is printed on the underside of the label. This method protects the printed image while allowing it to be viewed through the clear material, offering a unique and durable labeling option.

Producing a clear label doesn’t end after it’s printed. Unless the post-printing stage of the label-making process is planned ahead of time, there is no guarantee that the application process will be easy and stress-free. Automatic label applicators, which rely on sensors to detect the edges of labels, can struggle with clear materials. The transparency of the label can cause the applicator to miss the starting point, leading to misalignment or errors during application. To counter this, Century Printing and Packaging can incorporate an eye mark on the label or liner, ensuring precise application every time. CP&P works closely with clients to anticipate and address these challenges, ensuring a smooth application process regardless of the packaging type.

Though clear labels can become a powerful tool for modern brands, they can also be a hassle to print and apply if the proper steps, competence, and mastery of the team aren’t where they need to be. A deep understanding of the materials, processes, and potential pitfalls makes Century Printing and Packaging confident in their ability to navigate the complexities of clear-label production. Their caliber and extensive experience have taught them the importance of meticulous planning, from the initial design stages to the final application, as well as from cutting-edge pre-press design techniques to selecting the appropriate ink placement. CP&P has experimented and refined its process, so you don’t have to.

If you’re ready to take your product packaging to the next level with clear labels, contact Century Printing and Packaging today. Let us put our expertise to work for you and help you create labels that stand out.

25 Jun 2024

FLAG Conference

Flexo Label Advantage Group (FLAG) is an annual meeting for label printers across the country. This year, the event was held from June 11 to 13 in Buffalo, NY. The conference featured a diverse lineup of industry experts, thought leaders, and panel discussions covering various topics relevant to the label industry as a whole.

Century Printing and Packaging had the opportunity to engage in in-depth conversations about emerging trends, innovative technologies, sustainability practices, and best business strategies in the label printing sector. As members for the past three years, Ben and Neil value the opportunity to participate in this event, which provides a platform for uncovering new best practices, networking with peers and vendors, and gaining insights into the industry’s future.

One of the most valuable aspects of being a member of FLAG is the peer group that Ben and Neil belong to. They meet virtually once a month to discuss business challenges and opportunities, but the annual meeting allows them to engage in person. This year, the collective group spent over four hours sharing insights on industry trends, sales strategies, vendor relationships, and long-term goals. These discussions are crucial for staying competitive and responsive to the shifting market.

Though a smaller conference compared to others, FLAG hosted 114 attendees from various parts of the United States, providing a diverse and comprehensive networking opportunity. Meeting vendors and peers from different regions help CP&P expand its resource base and supply chain, ensuring a wide network to support all operations. As part of the event, Ben and Neil also toured a local label printer’s facility, learning about their best practices and engaging with their team. This hands-on experience provided practical insights and real-life applications.

Another impactful takeaway from FLAG was the numerous opportunities for Ben and Neil to speak with other label companies that use digital presses. Century Printing and Packaging is working on adding an additional digital press to its lineup, so being able to ask questions and weigh options was invaluable for making informed decisions in the future. As CP&P evaluates the digital printing options available, their primary goal is to identify the most efficient solutions that will allow the team to deliver top-quality products to customers at the most competitive prices.

A highlight of the meeting was a talk by David Arvin, a distinguished Customer Experience and Business speaker who recently published a book on delivering world-class customer service—no matter the company’s size. His insights into what customers in today’s market expect were enlightening, which has already sparked and inspired internal conversations around how to further deepen and improve current processes around customer experience from beginning to end.

After returning from FLAG, some evident trends in the label manufacturing industry were worth mentioning—from flexible packaging to digital printing to automation and AI. The demand for flexible packaging is rapidly increasing due to its versatility and convenience. This packaging style offers numerous benefits, including the ability to conform to different shapes and sizes, lightweight nature, ease of storage, and low environmental footprint. Flexible packaging is also known for extending product shelf life and reducing transportation costs, making it a popular choice.

As digital printing’s growth continues to rise, staying modern and relevant will be pivotal. While flexographic printing remains crucial for high-volume, high-quality labels, digital printing offers indispensable versatility that has become hard to replace.

Automation is also a key focus in 2024, with advancements in front-end customer service and back-end production processes. Integrating software for order tracking, utilizing cobots and robots, and streamlining operations are all steps toward enhancing productivity without eliminating jobs. Lastly, integrating AI into manufacturing is no longer a distant concept. It is becoming increasingly relevant, offering ways to innovate and improve operational efficiency.

Attending the FLAG annual meeting reinforces Century Printing and Packaging’s commitment to excellence in labeling. By exchanging best practices, networking, and staying ahead of industry trends, CP&P is better equipped to serve clients in the current competitive landscape.

14 Jun 2024

Reflecting on 2024 So Far: Century Printing and Packaging’s Milestones and Observed Market Trends

As we stand at the midpoint of the year, Century Printing and Packaging takes a moment to reflect on the milestones achieved, strides made, and advancements moving our industry. CP&P has seen great progress and has established strategic initiatives that set the stage for the next six months to improve and innovate for every client.

Century Printing and Packaging has achieved remarkable success this year, having sold over 85 million labels and fulfilled over 3,000 orders. This substantial volume highlights CP&P’s ability and dedication to meeting high demand while maintaining top-notch execution. The presence of a well-organized team working in unison has been instrumental in reaching these impressive milestones.

Let’s uncover some direct impacts to better understand what led to Century Printing and Packaging’s success in the year’s first half.

According to an article on LinkedIn, the Chemical Resistant Labels Market is projected to grow by 13.6% from 2024 to 2031. CP&P has focused on the chemical segment, which has led to their growth and expertise in providing specialized labeling solutions for this industry. Keeping up with this rapidly growing market shows their ability to meet the specific needs of chemical manufacturers, ensuring safety and compliance through durable and long-lasting labeling solutions.

Another reason for the remarkable success witnessed in 2024 is the sale of RFID labels. Century Printing and Packaging has taken the necessary steps to integrate itself into the new world of RFID labeling, not only to understand the industry’s changes but also to position the team as experts in the space. CP&P also intends to invest in encoding equipment for RFID labels within the year, bolstering its capability to stay current with future RFID trend needs.

In line with technological advancements, CP&P is exploring the purchase of a second digital press by the end of the year. This investment will empower the team to proactively assess and respond to customers’ evolving needs. By incorporating additional production bandwidth through introducing new presses, CP&P will have the capacity to accommodate a broader range of customer requirements.

Next, let’s examine market dynamics and customer trends that are significantly contributing to CP&P’s 2024 growth.

We are all experiencing the impact of inflation in one way or another, but one positive effect is the growing favor for store brands over name brands. A significant number of CP&P’s customers produce store brands, and this change in consumer preference has directly boosted sales. You may have already observed the trend of store brands occupying more space in shopping carts as consumers actively seek budget-friendly alternatives to name brands. Read more about this trend in the Wall Street Journal.

In contrast to last year, when supply chain disruptions presented significant challenges, 2024 has witnessed more stable supply chains. Century Printing and Packaging has taken proactive measures by expanding its pool of materials suppliers. This move ensures cost competitiveness and swift production timelines without any delays. The newfound stability has enabled CP&P to prioritize delivering consistent quality and reliability to their customers, even amid ongoing uncertainties in global supply chains.

Lastly, let’s dive into some strategic initiatives that CP&P has taken that will lead them into a flourishing 2025.

Century Printing and Packaging has conducted extensive studies on setup costs in response to customers’ heightened price sensitivity. This research has allowed them to refine existing pricing models, ensuring competitive quotes while maintaining profitability. By understanding the detailed costs of each production run, CP&P can provide customers with the best possible pricing without compromising quality.

Century’s workforce remains a cornerstone of their yearly success. CP&P takes pride in having a stable and dedicated team with the right people in the right positions, driving operations forward without interruption. A unified team, all pushing in the same direction, will fortify CP&P against any challenges that come their way in the second half of the year.

Looking ahead to the second half of 2024, Century Printing and Packaging is confident in its ability to continue providing high-value labels at every price point to its customers. The strategic investments mentioned above, strong production capabilities, and stable supply chains position CP&P well for future growth.

Century Printing and Packaging wouldn’t be here today without the support of its customers, partners, and team members for their continued collaboration and dedication. Together, CP&P is looking forward to achieving even greater milestones in the coming months and years.

Thank you for being a part of the journey.

28 May 2024

The Art of a Quote

In the labeling realm, the quote process is the bedrock of the communication between a vendor and a customer. With a remarkable 27 years of industry expertise, Century Printing and Packaging comprehends and masters the intricate details of providing precise and competitive quotes that meet clients’ needs. Several factors come into play when preparing a quote for a label job. These include the size of the label, the number of colors required, and the intended end use of the label. One of the most important considerations is the specific standards that the client requires. This could include a wide range of factors, such as the type of materials used, the branding strategy, and the overall design and aesthetic of the product.

Material selection is critical, where a delicate balance between value and quality must be struck. Clients often seek materials that are both cost-effective and durable. CP&P has demonstrated exceptional proficiency in identifying this ideal equilibrium, ensuring that the selected materials meet the requisite performance criteria and remain economical, assuring the cost-effectiveness and durability of materials.

Pricing for label jobs is typically based on a per-thousand-label basis. The higher the quantity, the lower the per-thousand cost, as the setup cost for the label can be spread out across a larger unit size. This pricing model offers competitive rates while maintaining high-quality standards. By updating their pricing models regularly and sourcing materials from multiple vendors, Century Printing and Packaging ensures they provide the best quality at the best price.

A labeling quote includes a detailed breakdown of all aspects of the label production process. This includes the choice of materials, whether paper or film, the type of laminate or coating to be applied, and the size and configuration of the label rolls. The quote also itemizes any costs associated with tooling, such as tooling required for custom shapes or sizes. This level of detail ensures that clients understand the production process and associated costs, allowing them to make informed decisions that align with their labeling needs and budget constraints.

Additionally, CP&P meets the 9001:2015 International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standard. The ISO sets international standards for quality management systems to ensure that products and services meet customer requirements and regulatory standards. Century Printing and Packaging’s ISO quality system is crucial in its operations, particularly in the labeling quote process.

ISO standards provide a framework for companies to establish, maintain, and implement standardized processes and procedures to ensure that every label meets the highest quality standards. One key aspect of CP&P’s ISO quality system is a checklist integrated into its production process. This checklist serves as a comprehensive guide for press operators and managers. It outlines the critical steps and quality checks needed during the label setup and production process. It covers aspects such as ensuring the correct die-cut, verifying that graphics match the proof, and confirming that the right materials are used.

Century Printing and Packaging is acutely aware of the significance of environmental sustainability in labeling. While clients may express a preference for sustainable materials, their availability and cost can pose challenges. Century Printing and Packaging’s approach is to harmonize client preferences with practicality, ensuring they offer environmentally friendly options whenever possible, thereby reassuring clients of their commitment to ethical practices.

Undoubtedly, the process of labeling quotes is a multifaceted and critical aspect of the labeling industry. It involves intricate scrutiny of factors such as label size, material, design, and printing techniques to arrive at an accurate and cost-effective quote. Century Printing and Packaging has earned a reputation as an experienced and reliable player in the industry, adept at effortlessly navigating these complexities and delivering exceptional results at the right price.

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Author Archives: Ben Waldrop

Celebrating Local Culture

Why Local Support Matters to CP&P

A Look to the Future