IN-MOLD LABELING (IML) TECHNOLOGY IN PACKAGING DESIGN

Designers who work in packaging design – which is a branch of graphic design – need to have up-to-date knowledge of marketing communications and packaging production technologies as well. The positions and sizes of labels indicating the technical information of the design differ according to the sector, type, volume, branding and positioning of each product. Furthermore, these could be features to be considered in designing the packaging. It is also accepted that the production method for a product influences the design and implementation processes. This study aims to examine the current “in-mold labeling” (IML) methods and technologies associated with advances in the packaging industry regarding design and production. Quantitative survey research methods served as the basis for this study, and the design and implementation processes were examined by reviewing relevant literature, including digital sources. According to the findings of the study, polypropylene (PP), which is used in IML (in-mold labeling) technologies – and which is not well-known by most industrial designers and producers – is a plastic product that is produced by the offset printing method. Production with the offset industrial printing method renders the labels used in packaging products so affordable that it would be unfair to compare it with the preprint and mold expenses of flexographic and photogravure printing. In addition to this, another preprint advantage of offset printing in the preparation process is that it allows quick revisions and alterations to a design. As a result, packaged products produced with the IML method offer sectoral diversity through a large variety of product designs, by providing maximum space for visual advertisements and information, and via different volumes. This method – and new technologies – should be supported and introduced to sector personnel through technical visits and special practical projects. Furthermore, awareness should be raised of the educational institutions that train qualified personnel for the industry