ABOUT

About Shrink Sleeve Labels 

Shrink sleeve labels offer a maximum display area and 360-degree branding, providing a powerful shelf presence and high visual impact. Inovar was one of the first companies in the U.S. to produce these labels, making us a pioneer in the industry.

Shrink sleeves were introduced commercially in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Initially, they were mainly used for tamper-evident seals on pharmaceutical and food item products. Over time, advancements in materials and printing technologies expanded the applications of shrink sleeves to include full-body labeling and branding for various products across industries like food and beverage, cosmetics, household products, and more.

Today, shrink sleeves are a popular packaging choice for their versatility, aesthetic appeal, and ability to conform to complex container shapes. Our shrink sleeve label options include:

  • Body Sleeves: Full-body coverage excluding the cap.
  • Full-Body Sleeves: Covers the entire product, including the cap.
  • Neck Band Sleeves: Tamper-evident, printable neckbands, perforated for easy removal.
  • Tamper Evident Sleeves: Secure and protect your product while promoting your message.
  • Partial Body Sleeves: Also known as belly bands, covering part of the product.
  • Group Sleeves: Multi-pack sleeves for grouping multiple products.

How We Can Help

At Inovar, we’re dedicated to delivering labels that exceed your expectations. We understand your specific needs and suggest the best combinations of materials and finishes to ensure visual appeal and optimal functionality for your products, while taking sustainability into account.

Cutting-Edge Shrink Sleeve Label Technology 

Our shrink sleeve labels are produced using state-of-the-art distortion software, ensuring perfect application on any container shape, no matter how complex. These sleeve labels are durable, resistant to various conditions, and can withstand rigorous handling and transportation environments, with sustainable options available.

SHRINK SLEEVE LABEL CAPABILITIES

At Inovar, we’re proud to provide a wide range of capabilities to meet your unique shrink sleeve label needs and showcase your brand in the most positive light—all in alignment with your sustainability standards.

SUSTAINABILITY

We offer several types of shrink sleeves that makes the primary content recyclable. These include both clear and white material options.

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HYBRID PRINTING

Hybrid technology combines flexographic and digital printing in a single process. Imagine superior high-resolution digital images with perfectly matched PMS colors and a fully array of embellishments. Quality and flexibility never before available for shrink sleeves.

FOIL STAMPING

Add a premium look and highlight areas of your product with the use of metallic foils.

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TACTILE FINISHES

Create raised images or copy that have an embossed effect. The embellishment can be done on press or digitally for lower volume products.

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CAST AND CURETM

Cast and CureTM involve a process where a holographic pattern is created by curing a special coating, producing a distinct, durable finish with enhanced visual depth and clarity.

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MULTIPLE VARNISH OPTIONS

  • Matte
  • Satin
  • Soft-touch
  • Sandpaper
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PERSONALIZATION

Every label can be unique. Personalize your product with unique images, names, logos, and more. The sky is the limite with our hybrid and digital technology.

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RFID AND NFC

Meeting retail store mandates, enhancing directions for use or unique customer promotions are all possible with our smart label capabilities.

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SHRINK SLEEVE LABEL FAQS

What type of shrink sleeves does Inovar offer?

Inovar offers a variety of shrink sleeve formats, including:

  • Body Sleeves (full-body, excluding the cap)
  • Full-Body Sleeves (covering the cap)
  • Neck Band Sleeves (tamper-evident, perforated)
  • Tamper Evident Sleeves with perforations for security
  • Partial Body Sleeves (belly bands)
  • Group Sleeves (multi-pack sleeves)

Can shrink sleeves be personalized or printed with variable data?

Yes. Thanks to Inovar’s hybrid printing technology (digital + flexo), you can personalize each shrink sleeve; for example, by adding names, unique images, QR codes, or sequential numbering.

Do you offer sustainable shrink sleeve options?

Absolutely. As a member of the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR), Inovar provides a variety of sustainable and recyclable options:

  • Zipper-perforated sleeves, so users can remove the sleeve before recycling the container
  • Thinner films and water-based inks to reduce waste
  • Floatable shrink sleeves that separate from PET bottles during recycling
  • Magnetic-coated shrink sleeves that can be separated via magnetic separation in recycling facilities

Can shrink sleeves provide tamper-evident protection?

Yes. Inovar can design tamper-evident sleeves with perforations and neckbands so that it’s clear if a product has been opened or tampered with.

What printing and production technologies do you use for shrink sleeves?

We use advanced distortion software to ensure the design aligns properly on complex container shapes. Inovar also employs hybrid printing (combining digital and flexo) for high-resolution graphics, PMS matching, and variable data.

Which industries or product types use shrink sleeve labels?

Inovar serves a wide variety of markets with shrink sleeves, including: food & beverage, personal & home care, industrial products, pet care, supplements & nutraceuticals, and wine, spirits & craft beverages.

Are shrink sleeves durable? Can they handle harsh conditions?

Yes, Inovar’s shrink sleeves are engineered to be robust and resilient. They withstand handling, transportation, and environmental conditions, and can be optimized for light blocking or UV protection, depending on the substrate.

How should shrink sleeves be applied to containers?

Shrink sleeves require application using a heat source (like a steam or heat tunnel) so that the film shrinks evenly around the container. Proper application ensures tight conformity and design accuracy.

How should shrink sleeves be stored before use?

To preserve quality, store shrink sleeves in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, and avoid stacking heavy items on them. Proper storage helps maintain their dimensional stability and print integrity.

Shrink Sleeve Label Insights
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