More and more brands are choosing stand-up pouches for their packaging. They’re lightweight, cost-effective, space-saving, and easy for consumers to store and reseal. But what really elevates a pouch? A well-designed, high-quality label.
At GCI, we’ve seen firsthand how effective this combination can be. Applying custom labels to blank pouches allows brands to stay flexible – launching new products quickly, testing new markets, or handling multiple SKUs without committing to high minimum orders for pre-printed film. It’s a scalable solution that still looks polished and professional.
Getting the label right, though, takes some attention to detail. The size of the label matters. A label that’s too large can crease or wrinkle on curved surfaces, while one that’s too small might not provide enough space for branding or required information. We work closely with customers to find that perfect balance.
Material choices also play a big role. Clear labels can let your product show through, while white or metallic materials can create striking shelf presence. Finishes like matte or gloss add an extra layer of polish. Just as important is choosing the right adhesive – your label material and adhesive need to pair optimally with the pouch substrate and hold up under real-world conditions, whether that means refrigeration, heat, or repeated handling. And of course, your print quality needs to be crisp, vibrant, and durable enough to withstand storage and transport.
It’s also worth thinking about the pouch itself – not just its size and shape, but also whether you’re using front-and-back labeling, how your label colors interact with the pouch color, and whether functional features like hang holes or child-resistant zippers will affect where and how your label is applied.
A number of GCI’s small-brand clients opt for labeled pouches as a fast-track way to get their products to market without sacrificing design or quality. It’s a great option for short runs, seasonal items, or emerging brands that need flexibility without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re a startup bringing something new to shelves or an established brand looking to streamline your packaging process, labels on pouches might be the ideal solution, and we’d love to help you explore it.