If you’re here, you’re looking for an outsourced label printing partner. Whether you’re looking for food labels, household product labels, or a short run of seasonal beer labels from a digital printing press, we’re willing to bet you’re weighing a lot of options.
Selecting the right label manufacturer is more than a procurement task; it’s also a marketing decision that affects brand equity and an operations consideration in supply chain stability. As your business and products evolve, the demand for precision labeling, from high-end aesthetic finishes to complex nutritional compliance, requires a partner that matches your operational scale.
Whether you’re a startup needing a number of quick test runs or an established brand requiring complex, multi-layered packaging, understanding the nuances between service-first providers like Epsen Hillmer Graphics and self-service platforms like LabelValue is essential for long-term success.
The Evolution of Custom Labeling: Why Your Partner Choice Matters
No matter what product you’re labeling, you’re entering a crowded marketplace where the physical product, its packaging, and its labeling are your touchpoint with consumers. Choosing the right source for your labels requires a deliberate analysis of your material needs, your current production stage and future growth trajectory, and the brand identity you’re cultivating.
eCommerce vs. Personal Service
Using a self-order eCommerce platform, often called a web-to-print solution, like LabelValue to manage and purchase your custom product labels gives you a little more responsibility in exchange for the convenience of online ordering. Instead of relying on traditional back-and-forth communication with sales or service reps, these platforms put structural control in your hands.
Custom label sourcing is more complex than it may seem. When using self-order eCommerce solutions, businesses often find themselves navigating complex technical decisions like material compatibility, adhesive types, roll direction, and sustainability considerations without professional guidance. These eCommerce platforms are designed for convenience, not deep detail, which can leave significant openings for oversights. A lack of expert oversight may result in choosing a substrate that fails under refrigerated conditions or a laminate that degrades when exposed to moisture.
Conversely, partnering with an experienced service representative at your label printing partner ensures that every aspect of the label, from the ink chemistry to the protective coating, is vetted against your specific application. An expert can preemptively identify issues with readability or regulatory font sizes that an automated “build-your-own” interface might overlook.
Plus, experts can offer advice on optimizing designs for cost-effectiveness, reducing waste through strategic roll layouts, and finishes to enhance the visual appeal, which can make a significant difference in grabbing consumer attention on retail shelves. That advice is gleaned from the experience gained over tens of thousands of orders and millions of labels produced. Personal service providers like Epsen Hillmer Graphics bring decades of industry knowledge into every project, tailored specifically to align with each client’s unique needs.
Customization Flexibility
When it comes to customization, self-service platforms like LabelValue offer a wide array of options that allow for digital uploads and variable data printing. This is excellent for businesses that have a clear vision of their designs and require minimal or no adjustments. The platform’s digital nature provides swift iterations and easy-to-use templates that cater to small businesses or those with straightforward labeling needs.
In contrast, companies with complex branding requirements, those seeking unique design elements, or those who want advice and input on the creation of their labels, those who need large, scalable orders, or those who want an expert Variable Data Printing team can benefit from the consultative partnership process offered by personal service providers. With EHG, that process can delve into exclusive finishes such as embossing, foil stamping, or specialty die cuts that are not typically accessible through automated platforms. The result is a bespoke labeling experience that elevates your brand positioning and reinforces consumer perception of quality for everything from perfumes to food labels.
Defining the Players: EHG vs. LabelValue
Epsen Hillmer Graphics (EHG) is an outsourced label printing provider and label manufacturer based in Omaha, Nebraska, that serves businesses of all kinds, from large co-bottlers and co-packers to small, private label startup brands. As a locally owned and operated business, EHG has built its reputation on being a high-touch, consultative partner that excels in delivering labels of distinction, even for complex, technical print work. We view label production as an engineering challenge, focusing on long-term relationships, excellent customer service, high-fidelity output, and efficient, secure supply chains with timely delivery.
LabelValue operates as a technology-first, utility-driven resource. Their business model focuses on digital accessibility. This lets smaller businesses or those with frequent, simple needs order labels through a web portal efficiently. They are designed for agility, providing a streamlined experience that removes some barriers to entry for smaller brands, making them a popular choice for startups focused on rapid growth with quick changes.
Manufacturing Capabilities: Printing Technologies and Substrates
The technical backbone of your labeling strategy rests on the capabilities of your printing partner. Selecting the right technology depends on your specific volume, lead-time requirements, and visual brand standards.
Flexographic vs. Digital Printing for Labels
Printing technology serves as the foundation for your unit cost and quality. Flexographic printing is the industry standard for high-volume, cost-effective runs, utilizing plates to transfer images with high speed and consistency. Digital printing, by contrast, removes the need for plates, allowing for rapid job changes, smaller order sizes, and extreme customization.
Flexographic printing is favored for its ability to handle large volumes efficiently. It utilizes flexible plates and quick-drying inks, making it a cost-effective choice for high-volume production where quality and speed are paramount. EHG leverages its expertise in flexographic printing to offer solutions that are consistent and reliable for industries requiring large batches, such as health supplements or beverages. This method is celebrated for its versatility with various substrates, including paper, film, and metallic materials, providing an attractive option for more intricate label designs.
LabelValue does offer flexographic printing, but specializes more in digital printing.
Digital printing stands out for its adaptability and the personalization it offers to businesses aiming for a bespoke touch in their labeling. Unlike traditional methods, digital printing does not require the production of plates, which significantly reduces setup time and cost, especially for smaller batches. This approach results in excellent print clarity and allows for fine details and vibrant colors.
This agility is particularly beneficial for industries where compliance requirements and consumer trends can change rapidly, sometimes necessitating quick changes without incurring high costs. Their digital printing services empower businesses to conduct short-to-medium run jobs with remarkable customization, giving brands the edge they need in competitive markets.
LabelValue focuses on digital printing solutions that cater to businesses needing frequent adjustments or updates to their designs. Epsen Hillmer Graphics has a dedicated digital printing line and team, and is a preferred provider of quality digital printed product labels for companies who do not want self-serve ordering.
Lithographic Printing: Litho Product Labels
Lithographic printing is chosen for product labels because it delivers unmatched image clarity, strict color consistency, and low per-piece costs for very large production runs at scale.
For labels that demand high-quality photographic imagery and complex color schemes, lithographic printing is unbeatable. This method uses offset techniques that precisely transfer ink from plates to a rubber blanket and then onto the printing surface, ensuring each label maintains consistency from the first print to the last.
This printing process is highly efficient for businesses with large-scale production needs, such as food and beverage companies, pharmaceutical or supplement industries, or any sector where branding is critical and often involves intricate graphic elements. The ability to sustain color uniformity across thousands of prints makes lithography the go-to choice when image portrayal needs to remain consistent in a brand’s identity.
Specialty finishes such as varnishes and UV coatings on litho product labels not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also add a protective layer, improving durability against environmental factors like moisture or light exposure. This is crucial for products that might be exposed to harsh conditions during storage or in use.
Lithography isn’t typically used for small batches due to the initial setup cost and time, but its cost benefits become apparent at high volumes where the expense per label significantly drops. For clients needing a high-standard finish with the continuity of supply in large quantities, lithography presents.
LabelValue does not offer lithographically printed labels or lithography. Epsen Hillmer has been producing lithographic labels since 1908.
High-End Enhancements: Foil Stamping, Embossing, and Premium Visual Cues
Visual shelf impact is often determined by the finishing touches applied to your labels. Epsen Hillmer Graphics specializes in high-end enhancements that elevate a product from a commodity to a premium brand. Through processes like foil stamping, embossing, and custom die-cutting, EHG transforms standard labels into tactile experiences.
These enhancements are critical in competitive sectors like luxury cosmetics or craft beverages, where the consumer’s first interaction with the label dictates their perception of quality. By integrating these cues, EHG helps brands secure a higher shelf presence.
LabelValue supports cold foil and spot varnishes for premium visual cues, but they do not offer traditional hot foil stamping or physical texture embossing.
Substrate Selection: Choosing Materials for Durability and Shelf Impact
Choosing materials balances durability and cost efficiency. Choosing the wrong substrate can result in label failure—peeling adhesives or faded ink—before the product even reaches the consumer.
EHG’s expert team works with clients to analyze the specific environment their products encounter, whether that is high humidity in a freezer or friction during shipping. We guide clients toward the most effective materials to meet both branding goals and fiscal requirements, ensuring that you are not overspending on premium materials where standard, cost-effective options would suffice.
With self-serve eCommerce solutions like LabelValue, purchasers are largely on their own when choosing substrates and materials.
Operational Excellence and Supply Chain Integration in Outsourced Label Printers
Beyond the ink and paper, the operational philosophy of your provider dictates how smoothly your supply chain functions.
Customer Service Models: Strategic Partnerships vs. Transactional Sourcing
LabelValue excels in a transactional model, where speed and independent ordering are the primary benefits. This allows operations managers to secure labels on their own schedule without waiting for proofs or account managers.
Epsen Hillmer Graphics provides a more strategic partnership model. This approach lets you outsource your problems. A dedicated representative manages your inventory logistics. We make sure your labels arrive on time with your production, even when demand rises suddenly.
Managing Supply Chain Disruptions and Variable Demand
Supply chains are inherently volatile. EHG mitigates this risk through a deep inventory of materials and a multi-press facility, which allows us to pivot between printing lines or methods if one piece of equipment is backlogged.
A smaller provider might only have one workflow. But EHG has many capabilities. This helps keep your product distribution steady during material shortages or sudden increases in demand.
Digital Proofing and Pantone Color Matching for Brand Consistency
Brand integrity relies on visual consistency. Epsen Hillmer Graphics utilizes a human QA process, with advanced digital proofing and rigorous Pantone color matching systems to ensure that your brand looks the same in every retail location. By providing physical samples and precise digital proofs, we eliminate the “guesswork” that often leads to inconsistent labeling. This rigor ensures that your nutritional tables and branding remain compliant with your internal standards and external regulatory requirements.
LabelValue offers a more automated approach to digital proofing and color matching. They provide an online platform where clients can upload artwork and receive digital mock-ups. This system is ideal for businesses that prioritize a quick turnaround and have the in-house expertise to make branding decisions without extensive support.
However, for those who require precise color fidelity, LabelValue’s platform supports basic color libraries and online approvals, though it may not reach the level of detail provided by Epsen Hillmer Graphics’ human-led quality control process. Businesses that mainly produce standard label designs or opt for shorter label runs may find this service entirely sufficient for their needs.
Comparative Decision Matrix: Which Provider Fits Your Business Model?
When to Choose Epsen Hillmer Graphics: Full-Service Label Partners for Short Runs, VDP, Digital, Flexo, and Litho
EHG is the partner for growth-oriented brands that have moved beyond the “DIY” phase, or for new brands who need an expert’s input on their label materials and printing method.
If your product requires complex nutritional tables, variable data, precise color matching, or premium finishes, Epsen Hillmer Graphics provides the expertise to execute these product labels at scale. With dedicated specialists for every printing type, we offer a level of technical support that allows you to focus on your core product, confident that your labeling is compliant, durable, and visually superior.
When to Choose LabelValue: Agility for Startups
LabelValue is a good choice for companies that prioritize independence and speed. If you are an early-stage startup that needs to experiment with label types or is not yet ready for high-volume commitments, their online portal is an invaluable asset. You retain total control over your ordering cycle, which is perfect for brands that are still finding their identity and require the flexibility to pivot quickly without lengthy consultations.
When The Choice Comes Down to Partnership, Choose Epsen Hillmer Graphics
Choosing between a transactional provider like LabelValue and a consultative partner like Epsen Hillmer Graphics is a reflection of your brand’s operational needs.
LabelValue offers rapid, autonomous ordering, which serves the agility needs of emerging startups and smaller production runs.
EHG acts as an extension of your operations team, offering printing methods like Digital, Flexographic, and Lithographic, plus advanced VDP and material engineering. We provide the kind of brand fidelity and professional oversight vital for established brands. Whether handling strict food labeling rules or enhancing your brand with premium features, the goal is to deliver your product with its identity and integrity intact. For growing organizations, partnering with an expert manufacturer is a key strategy for long-term brand value and reliable operations. Assess your volume, technical needs, and logistics to choose the best path to secure your market position.
Whether you’re navigating strict food labeling regulations or ready to elevate your brand through premium embellishments, the primary goal remains the same: making sure your product reaches the consumer with both its identity and its integrity intact. For businesses looking to scale, investing in a partnership with an expert manufacturer is a foundational strategy for long-term brand equity and operational reliability.
If you’d like to take a look at what your next run of labels can look like with an expert in your corner, reach out to our team for a quick quote.
