Any cutting-edge invention, no matter how well-intentioned, has the potential to produce a chain reaction across other platforms. One area where this has come to fruition is the consumer packaged goods (CPG) market as suppliers, distributors and retailers accommodate SKU proliferation. As beverage-makers expand their portfolio whether it be flavors, packaging or both, labeling equipment manufacturers are developing machinery that can handle the effects of SKU proliferation.
“SKU proliferation has resulted in a need for greater flexibility in labeling equipment,” says Mike Soloway, product manager of labeling technology for Krones Inc., Franklin, Wis. “Varying bottle sizes and shapes, changing label materials as well as changing labeling technologies demand that the labeling equipment be future-proof.