10 Key Reasons Why Leading UK Businesses Switch Label Suppliers

Understanding the factors that drive change.

In the fast-paced world of retail, every detail matters, especially labels. Without them, finished products wouldn’t reach the consumer. From primary to secondary packaging and tertiary packaging, a manufacturer’s choice of supplier can significantly impact operations, costs, and customer experience. Many major UK businesses periodically reassess their supply chain to ensure they are getting the best value, service, and innovation. In our 30 years of operation, here are the top reasons why businesses have made the switch to or from The Watermill Press:

1. Cost Efficiency and Competitive Pricing

Manufacturers operate in highly competitive environments where cost control is crucial. Rising supplier prices, shipping costs, or credit terms often prompt businesses to seek alternative suppliers offering better rates, rebates, or improved contract terms that may include no new product development costs. It is common for manufacturers to use tenders to drive prices down from their existing suppliers and to ensure they are getting a compelling overall value proposition.

2. Quality and Consistency Issues

Labels must meet high-quality standards to withstand the environments of their lifecycle and ensure smooth operations. Issues such as fading prints, adhesive failures, or inconsistent sizing can lead to customer dissatisfaction and logistical inefficiencies. A decline in quality or inconsistent supply can incur costly fees and push manufacturers to find a more reliable provider.

3. Supply Chain Reliability and Lead Times

Manufacturers need labels delivered on time to keep retailers’ shelves stocked and operations running smoothly. Delays or unreliable delivery schedules can lead to stock issues and increased operational costs. A supplier who fails to meet agreed lead times or experiences frequent disruptions may be replaced by a more dependable partner.

4. Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Solutions

With a growing emphasis on sustainability, manufacturers are seeking label suppliers that implement eco-friendly innovations into the business, offer sustainable solutions, and measure their carbon footprint. Businesses are being forced to prioritise their environmental impact and may switch to a supplier with better green credentials and sustainable sourcing or manufacturing practices.

5. Innovation and Technological Advancements

Manufacturers need labels that align with modern technology, such as smart tracking solutions like RFID labelling. Adopting such technologies is a c-suite level commercial decision which is increasing due to its long-term benefits. Suppliers that fail to keep up with these advancements may be replaced by those offering cutting-edge solutions that enhance operational efficiency and customer experience.

6. Compliance with Regulations

Manufacturers must adhere to strict industry regulations regarding labelling, including food safety laws, GS1 UK labelling standards, and product information requirements. If a supplier fails to stay compliant with legal standards or cannot provide the necessary certifications, retailers may look for a more knowledgeable and compliant provider.

7. Customer Support and Service Levels

Outstanding customer service is essential in supplier relationships. Manufacturers rely on responsive, proactive, and knowledgeable support teams to resolve issues efficiently. Ineffective communication, insufficient technical support, or delays in addressing urgent requests can push manufacturers to seek a more service-focused supplier. This is why they often have a preferred partner for their labelling needs.

8. Scalability and Capacity to Meet Demand

As manufacturers grow or experience seasonal fluctuations, they need a label supplier that can scale production accordingly. If a supplier struggles to meet high-volume demands or lacks the infrastructure to support growth, manufacturers may seek a label supplier with greater capacity and more flexibility.

9. Integration with Retailer’s Systems

Retailers rely on seamless integration between their suppliers and internal systems. Suppliers who lack digital compatibility or require complex, time-consuming processes may be replaced with those offering automated, efficient integration solutions.

10. Internal Departmental changes and Influences

Operational upgrades and personnel shifts are factors that contribute to a change in labelling partners. When engineers invest in new label applicators or automated labelling systems they may need to source compatible labels from them as part of their service agreement. These contractual obligations can happen with other printer consumables when the IT department upgrades their desktop thermal printers. New hires, in key roles like procurement, operations and supply chain often bring existing relationships with suppliers from a previous role.

Conclusion

Changing label suppliers is not a decision businesses take lightly, but it is often necessary to maintain competitiveness, efficiency, and sustainability. Even though tenders are the go-to process for some manufacturers to their supply chain, trusted labelling solution providers, would argue that partnering with the right supplier can unlock actionable cost-saving opportunities and operational efficiencies without one. By understanding the key reasons behind supplier transitions, label providers can position themselves as strategic partners, offering the reliability, innovation, and cost-effectiveness that businesses demand. If your business is experiencing any of these challenges, it may be time to explore new label supply options to stay ahead in the dynamic retail landscape.