Specialized center offers comprehensive, data-backed testing to optimize label and packaging material performance

RRD has introduced an enhanced Label Performance Center within its St. Charles, Illinois production facility that serves as a dedicated space for label and packaging material research, development and testing.

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Robert Challman, Director of Research and Development for Packaging and Labels at RRD, examines a label being tested inside a thermal chamber at RRD’s new Label Performance Center in St. Charles, Illinois. RRD tests labels under extreme hot and cold temperatures to mimic the hottest dry weather of Arizona to the coldest temperatures of Alaska. Testing labels under extreme conditions like temperature and sun exposure enables RRD to ensure the durability and reliability of its label products.

Leveraging decades of material analysis and research expertise, RRD’s dedicated Label Performance Center is a one-stop hub for mechanical, chemical and environmental testing. It can validate material and design changes providing root-cause analysis, qualification and validation of products. The lab can also duplicate customer results and test processes to uncover performance deficiencies.

The lab provides clients with extensive, industry-standard label testing capabilities that support data-driven decision making. It contains specialized test equipment and instruments designed for assessing a variety of packaging and labeling material such as adhesives, facestocks, laminates, among others. The types of tests include:

• Mechanical testing to evaluate a label's resistance to abrasion, tearing and other physical stresses.
• Peel and adhesion testing to assess and ensure labels can withstand the rigors of application, packaging processes and handling during transit.
• UV and temperature chambers to simulate the damaging effects of full-spectrum sunlight, temperature and moisture on materials over time. The chambers can mimic the hot, dry weather and bright sun of Arizona up to 150°F. RRD’s cold weather chambers can test labels down to -40°F, equivalent to the harsh winter conditions of Alaska.
• Chemical resistance testing to assess a label's ability to withstand exposure to various chemicals, solvents and cleaning agents.
• Barcode read validation to verify the scanability and readability of barcodes in various conditions.

“Our labels are affixed to vehicle batteries, on e-commerce boxes delivered to your home, in restaurants and at retail locations across the globe. RRD’s Label Performance Center allows us to be at the forefront of innovation with advanced testing to ensure reliability and durability in any environment or application,” said Robert Challman, Director of Research and Development for Packaging and Labels at RRD. “This lab is a vital resource for powering brand success and gives our clients the data-driven confidence they need to ensure their labels perform flawlessly.”

Companies are consistently evaluating packaging and labeling materials to reduce costs, bolster supply chains, meet sustainability objectives and align with shifting regulations. According to RRD’s 2024 Packaging & Labels Insight Report, 80% of label decision makers indicated they would likely make label design changes to composition, functionality and aesthetics over the next two years. This wave of innovation makes thorough testing — to enhance functionality and adapt to evolving consumer expectations — essential.

Through its work with clients in sectors such as food and beverage, pharmaceutical and logistics, RRD’s lab has proven instrumental in preventing supply chain disruptions, enhancing operational efficiency and clarifying the impact of material changes.

RRD plans to expand its label, adhesive, coatings and other global testing capabilities over the next year. For more information, visit www.rrd.com/labels.

About RRD

RRD provides a complete portfolio of marketing, packaging, print and business services to the world’s most respected brands, including 91% of the Fortune 100. The company’s proprietary technology, advanced data analytics and established expertise fuel organizational decision-making, from strategy through execution. With operations in 30 countries, global organizations and regulated industries trust RRD to reduce complexity and drive audience connections across the entire customer journey.

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