What are IML labels
IML (In-Mould Labelling) is a technique for decorating plastic parts. It consists of placing a printed label inside a mould and injecting plastic, fusing the decoration with the part. The IML label becomes part of the product, making it the most durable and visually impactful decoration method.
Printed solutions for the plastics industry
Grifoll manufactures IML labels starting from 57 microns. Each production is custom-made, adapting material, thickness, and finishes to the functional requirements of the part and its production process. All our in-mould labels are printed at our facility in Rubí (Barcelona), equipped to supply both high volumes and short runs. Our experience as an IML label manufacturer and our integrated production process allow us to react quickly and guarantee delivery for urgent or short-lead-time orders.
IML label manufacturer with special inks
Grifoll can help you develop decorative IML solutions with added value: the use of special inks enhances the visual appeal of your products.
Uses of IML labels
In-Mould Labelling is mainly used in plastic packaging or as decoration for injection-moulded plastic parts. As the label bonds to the material during the moulding process, the final result is fully integrated and highly impactful.
Visit our post on the advantages of using IML labels to learn more about the benefits of this decoration system. You can also download our IML label manufacturer presentation.
If you need to incorporate in-mould labels into your production line, contact us. Grifoll can help you maximize performance in your processes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to choose an in-mould label supplier in Spain?
IML is a specialized technology that requires specific technical capabilities. When choosing a supplier, evaluate these critical aspects:
Technical capability: Offset printing on polypropylene with inks resistant up to 200°C, perfect color registration, and precision die-cutting. Not all printers master these substrates and conditions.
Certifications: For food applications, FSSC 22000 is essential, ensuring food safety, full traceability, and easier supplier approval. For cosmetics and other sectors, ISO 9001 and material certifications are key.
Industry experience: A supplier with experience in your sector understands specific regulations, knows which designs work, and coordinates efficiently with packaging manufacturers. Grifoll works with dairy, ice cream, cosmetics, and chemical products.
Technical consultancy: The best supplier does not just print, but also advises on design feasibility, material optimization, costs, and coordination with the packaging manufacturer.
Grifoll combines specialized offset technology, FSSC 22000 certification, over 50 years of experience, and flexibility for both large volumes and trial runs. Our consultative approach optimizes every project from design to production.
What advantages do IML labels offer compared to other labels?
IML labels integrate decoration and packaging into a single inseparable piece, offering significant advantages:
Exceptional durability: They are molecularly fused with the packaging. They do not peel off, resist extreme abrasion, are immune to moisture and condensation, and withstand aggressive chemicals. Ideal for refrigerated, frozen, and detergent products where adhesive labels fail.
Superior print quality: High-definition offset printing with protected vibrant colors that do not degrade. Enables metallic, holographic effects and full 360° decoration.
Sustainability: 100% mono-material (polypropylene), facilitating recycling without separating components. Eliminates tons of liner and optimizes logistics space.
Operational efficiency: Integrated into the moulding process, with no separate labelling line. Virtually zero rejects due to application issues.
Premium differentiation: Consumers perceive IML products as 10–20% more valuable, with 15–30% higher turnover post-launch.
Grifoll masters the full process with specialized offset technology and FSSC 22000 certification. We support you from design to production to maximize every advantage of IML.
What advantages do in-mould labels offer in food packaging?
IML offers specific advantages for food applications beyond other sectors:
Extreme cold resistance: Immune to condensation from thermal cycles. Perfect adhesion from -18°C (ice cream) to room temperature without adhesives that may fail. Resistant to fats from dairy, butter, and meat products.
Simplified regulatory compliance: Mono-material suitable for food contact (EC 1935/2004). With FSSC 22000 certification, we guarantee full traceability, facilitating audits by major retailers. 360° decoration maximizes space for mandatory information.
True sustainability: 100% recyclable polypropylene without separating components. Spanish plants report 15–20% higher recovery vs. adhesive labels. Eliminates tons of liner in industrial volumes.
Superior hygiene: Smooth surface with no edges where bacteria can accumulate. Resistant to industrial disinfectants. Critical in dairy and meat processing lines.
Premium differentiation: Consumers perceive IML products as 12–18% more valuable. Ideal for Greek yogurts, artisanal ice cream, and gourmet desserts.
