The global waterproof label market is estimated to be worth USD 1.7 billion in 2024. Displaying a CAGR of 3.1% through 2034, the industry is slated to exceed USD 2.2 billion by the end of the forecast period.
Labeling has become an important step in the packaging of goods. Thus, the labeling sector is expanding rapidly, creating myriad opportunities for stakeholders. Waterproof labels are thus also becoming more popular and being used on a regular basis on goods.
With the increase in the import and export of goods, there is a need for labels to be sturdier. These labels are finding application in both naval trade as well as outside. Ship-based transport of goods has an obvious requirement for these labels.
As regulatory bodies, especially in the food and beverage as well as pharmaceutical sectors, place a strong emphasis on correct labeling, the need for these labels intensifies. Incorrectly labeled products have the chance to be rejected or returned, which has significant ramifications across the entire supply chain.
Waterproof labels are now coming with added functionality. In addition to water resistance, these labels also provide protection against UV rays, stains, and more. Thus, the multi-functionality of the labels is helping them attract more consumers.
With labeling becoming one of the most important parts of a product’s packaging, there is a growing need for these products in various applications. Thus, producers are manufacturing waterproof versions of labels in a variety of sizes, shapes, and more, appealing to a wider end-user base. The pricey nature of raw materials is hindering the industry.
Materials like polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) are experiencing price hikes, making the manufacturing process costlier. The environmental impact of the materials used in making the labels is also a restraining factor. Thus, the waterproof label market has both downsides and upsides.
| Attributes | Description |
|---|---|
| Established Waterproof Label Market Size (2024E) | USD 1.7 billion |
| Projected Waterproof Label Market Value (2034F) | USD 2.2 billion |
| Value-based CAGR (2024 to 2034) | 3.1% |
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Climate Change Makes Sturdy Labeling a Must
The impact of climate change is felt in the packaging sector too. Soaring temperatures, strong winds, dust, and more impact products in both transportation and storage. There is thus a need for labels of high quality in packaging.
Water is one of the elements that labels need protection from. The risk of spillage, exposure, and mishandling persists even with the strictest measures. There is a need for labels that are able to withstand the harshest conditions. The waterproof label market is thus advancing at a rapid pace.
Water-resistant Labels Finding Applications in Diverse Number of Industries
Water-resistant labels are being used in a diverse array of industries. Their foolproof nature is helping them build trust among end-use industries at a quick pace. While water-resistant labels were primarily used in chemical applications earlier, the application of the product has become widespread.
From food and beverage to healthcare and cosmetics, the labels are rising in popularity. With the addition of stringent labeling requirements in various sectors, the use of labels is getting bigger.
Tracking Facility Sees Market Demand Accelerate
In addition to providing sturdy labels, producers are also incorporating tracking facilities into the product. While surface printing poses significant competition to the product, the inclusion of tracking facilities gives labels an advantage over surface printing. As such, the assurance and trust of end users in the labels is multiplying.
The waterproof label market advanced at a rate of 2.6% for the period between 2019 and 2023. This allowed the value to climb from USD 1.4 billion in 2019 to USD 1.6 billion in 2023.
Like most packaging industries, the waterproof label industry was negatively affected by the pandemic. As manufacturing plants closed down, production slowed. The closure of retail stores, supermarkets, etc. also had an adverse effect on the industry. The restrictions on trade were also a dire consequence for the sector.
With the pandemic in the rear-view mirror, the industry got back on its feet. As such, the demand for the product is set to advance at a faster rate during the forecast period than in the historical period. As the effects of climate change are not slated to abate over the ensuing decade, the requirement for these labels is only set to climb.
The rise in eCommerce is also leading to an increase in the sheer number of goods populating the marketplace. In addition, the trading of goods is also increasing. Thus, online sales create a conducive environment for the industry to grow. The wide scale of industries that are calling upon water-resistant labels also improves the sector’s prospects.
Principal Consultant
Polypropylene (PP) is the material that is used primarily in making waterproof labels. Pressure-sensitive labels (PSL) are the preferred type of label.
Polypropylene (PP) is estimated to take up 34.2% of the waterproof label market share in 2024. Polypropylene is renowned for its durable quality. It is the preferred material not only for labels but also for a wide array of packaging. Thus, to lend the labels waterproof quality, PP is used significantly.
| Segment | Polypropylene (Material) |
|---|---|
| Value Share (2024) | 34.2% |
Pressure-sensitive labels (PSL) are expected to account for 45.1% of the sales of waterproof labels in 2024. PSLs are primarily used in the packaging sector. It is claimed that more than 80% of the labels used in the packaging sector are pressure sensitive.
Thus, the pressure-sensitive versions are also preferred for waterproof labels. The ease of use offered by pressure-sensitive labels, which do not require the use of heating or solvents, also increases their usage in the labeling sector.
| Segment | Pressure Sensitive Labels (Label Type) |
|---|---|
| Value Share (2024) | 45.1% |
The encouragement shown to packaging in the Asia Pacific by governments is set to help the industry thrive in the region. The superior manufacturing capabilities of producers in Europe and North America help them produce large quantities of the products.
| Countries | CAGR 2024 to 2034 |
|---|---|
| Japan | 1.2% |
| China | 4.6% |
| United States | 1.9% |
| Canada | 1.3% |
| United Kingdom | 1.7% |
| Germany | 1.6% |
| France | 1.4% |
| Italy | 1.8% |
| Spain | 2.1% |
| India | 5.5% |
| South Korea | 2.3% |
| Thailand | 4.3% |
The waterproof label market is penned in to progress at a CAGR of 1.9% in the United States. Regulatory authorities in the United States exercise widespread control over products, especially in the food and beverage and cosmetics sector. As producers strive to meet these requirements, labeling is also one of the needs that stakeholders are required to fulfil.
As the industrial capabilities of the United States improve, production is hitting the roof. This is creating an enhanced need for labeling in the country. Moreover, with the advancement of technology, labels need to be durable and sturdy. Thus, waterproof labels are earning more consumers in the United States.
India’s waterproof label market is set to register a CAGR of 5.5%. Label printing technology in India is catching up with Western standards. For example, label printers are set to advance at a CAGR of 4.6% in India for the period from 2024 to 2034. Thus, the whole label sector is improving in the country, which benefits the water-resistant label industry in India too.
The waterproof label market is set to walk on ahead at a CAGR of 1.7% in the United Kingdom. Post-Brexit, the labeling industry in the United Kingdom has undergone numerous changes. For example, certain products now require labels to clearly define that the goods are for sale in the United Kingdom. This turmoil creates both challenges as well as offers opportunities for the industry in the United Kingdom.
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The competitive landscape of the waterproof label market is vibrant, with industry giants vying with smaller enterprises for a piece of the pie. The startup ecosystem is also prominent in the industry. Giant like Langgutth America Ltd. relies on its reputation to boost sales. On the startup side of things, Blue Label Packaging Company aims to provide waterproof labels that are scratch and smudge-free.
Industry Update
Based on material, the industry is segmented into polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), other polymers (PA, EVOH, etc.), and metal.
Depending on label type, the market is categorized into pressure sensitive labels (PSL), shrink labels, stretch labels, thermal labels, and others (in-mold, pre-gummed, etc.).
End-use industries present in the industry are food, beverage, healthcare, cosmetics & personal care, homecare & toiletries, chemicals, automobiles, and other industrial.
The sector has been analyzed with the following regions covered: North America, Latin America, Europe, South Asia, East Asia, Oceania, and the Middle East and Africa.
The industry size is estimated to be USD 1.7 billion in 2024.
The industry is expected to increase at a CAGR of 3.1% through 2034.
Sales are expected to register a CAGR of 5.5% in India through 2034.
The industry is forecasted to reach a size of USD 2.2 billion by 2034.
LANGGUTH America Ltd., Markem-Imaje, Matthews Marking Systems, and Multivac Inc. are some of the prominent companies in the industry.
Sales are expected to register a CAGR of 1.9% in the United States through 2034.
1. Executive Summary
2. Industry Introduction, including Taxonomy and Market Definition
3. Market Trends and Success Factors, including Macro-economic Factors, Market Dynamics, and Recent Industry Developments
4. Global Market Demand Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, including Historical Analysis and Future Projections
5. Pricing Analysis
6. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034
6.1. Type
6.2. Application
7. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Type
7.1. Polyethylene
7.2. Polyester
8. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Application
8.1. Food & Beverages
8.2. Automotive Industry
8.3. Cosmetics and Personal Care
8.4. Clothing Industry
8.5. Pharmaceutical Industry
8.6. Others
9. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Region
9.1. North America
9.2. Latin America
9.3. Western Europe
9.4. South Asia
9.5. East Asia
9.6. Eastern Europe
9.7. Middle East & Africa
10. North America Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries
11. Latin America Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries
12. Western Europe Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries
13. South Asia Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries
14. East Asia Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries
15. Eastern Europe Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries
16. Middle East & Africa Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries
17. Sales Forecast 2024 to 2034 by Type and Application for 30 Countries
18. Competition Outlook, including Market Structure Analysis, Company Share Analysis by Key Players, and Competition Dashboard
19. Company Profile
19.1. Markem-Imaje
19.2. Matthews Marking Systems
19.3. Multivac Inc.
19.4. Paxton Products
19.5. PDC International Corp.
19.6. Primera Technology
19.7. SATO America
19.8. Sleeve Seal
19.9. Squid Ink
19.10. Guangzhou Aide Medical Technology Co., Ltd.
19.11. Guangzhou Guangcai Labels Co., Ltd.
19.12. Hangzhou Newmax Technology Co., Ltd.
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Waterproof Label Market
