Hidden Costs Of Label Failures: TIP #2

Jason Brownell : Director of Engineering
Jason Brownell : Director of Engineering

Traditional labeling methods often come with hidden costs, like additional processing, liability risks, and compliance challenges. Polymer Fusion Labeling has helped companies overcome these obstacles while providing long-term cost savings and improved durability. Below, Jason Brownell shares real-world examples where Polymer Fusion Labeling outperformed conventional labeling solutions.

Q: Can you recall an example where Polymer Fusion Labels were initially more expensive but resulted in overall cost savings?

A: “Absolutely. A few years back I worked with a manufacturer of hand tools who was using a two-shot molding process that required plasma treatment to decorate polypropylene parts. However, the plasma treatment damaged some components, leading to scrap and production bottlenecks. By switching to Polymer Fusion Labeling, they eliminated this secondary process, reducing costs significantly. Even though Polymer Fusion Labels had a higher upfront cost, the savings from removing pretreatment, pad printing, and reduced waste made the switch financially beneficial.”

Q: Can you recall an example where a company faced liability due to an inferior labeling method?

A: “Yes. In the shopping cart industry, manufacturers must ensure that safety warnings remain intact. Traditional labels and stickers can peel, or wear off, potentially exposing companies to liability risks if an injury occurs due to missing safety instructions. One manufacturer switched to Polymer Fusion Labels for leg-hold closures, ensuring warnings remained permanently fused to the plastic. This reduced legal risks and improved consumer safety.”

Q: Have you seen Polymer Fusion Labeling help a company meet regulatory compliance?

A: “Yes. Some of our customers operate in regulated industries, such as medical and dental. For example, we have provided Polymer Fusion Labels with FDA-compliant pigments for dental appliances. Additionally, we have supplied labels approved for use inside a person’s body, proving that Polymer Fusion meets strict compliance requirements. Unlike traditional labeling, which may degrade or pose contamination risks, PFL ensures long-term safety and adherence to regulatory standards.”

Q: Can you share an example where Polymer Fusion Labeling improved track and traceability?

A: “In the medical waste industry, track and traceability are critical. A company needed a permanent warning label and barcode for reusable biohazard containers. Traditional labels wore off during sanitation and transport, causing tracking failures. Polymer Fusion Labels provided a durable solution, keeping linear barcodes intact and scannable throughout the asset’s lifecycle. This helped ensure compliance with chain-of-custody regulations.”

Q: Have you seen customers benefit from the sustainability of Polymer Fusion Labeling?

Labels for plastic container A: “Yes. In the automotive industry, manufacturers design parts with sustainability in mind, often requiring 15+ years of durability. Because Polymer Fusion Labels become part of the plastic itself, they are 100% recyclable. This means manufacturers can grind and reuse materials without separating the label from the plastic, aligning with end-of-life sustainability goals. Because most traditional labeling methods are not compatible / recyclable, customers are surprised when they learn Polymer Fusion Labeling is able to be recycled along with a part without the need for label removal or any additional processing.”

Final Thoughts

Traditional labeling methods may seem cost-effective initially, but their hidden costs—extra processing, liability exposure, compliance risks, and poor durability—can quickly add up. Polymer Fusion Labeling eliminates these issues, providing permanent, cost-effective, and regulation-compliant solutions for various industries.

Could Polymer Fusion Labeling be the solution your company needs? Let’s discuss how it can benefit you.

Visit or contact Polyfuze Graphics Corporation today.

About the Author

Jason Brownell

Jason Brownell

Director of Engineering

Marty Mares

Marty Mares

VP Branding & Commercial Development

About the Author

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