Monopolize customers’ attention with 7 Beverage label design tips
In this article, we will dive into 7 beverage label design tips that will not only help you attract attention but also convince consumers to choose your drinks. A well-designed drink label can be the key difference between a product that sells well and one that collects dust on the shelf.
Eye-catching beverage label designs
What is the typical process to design a beverage label?
The beverage label design process typically involves several key steps to ensure that the label effectively communicates the brand’s identity and appeals to consumers. Here’s a general outline of the process:
Step 1: Brand Analysis
Brand analysis is the first step in the beverage label design process. It involves understanding the brand’s image, values, and the story it wants to convey through its packaging. Here’s how brand analysis typically fits into the label design process:
- Understand the core mission and values of the brand. What is the core purpose of the brand? What values are driving the brand? Sustainability, innovation, tradition, etc.?
- Create a market positioning map. Who are the brand’s main customers? What do their competitors look like?
- Every brand needs a distinct personality. What vibe does the brand communicate with customers? Playful, adventurous or classic?
- A brand also needs a clear and definitive identity. For example, what are the key visual elements, colors, and fonts of the brand?
- Brand designs can also contain story-telling elements. Does the brand have a unique story or heritage?
Through careful analysis, brands can create a beverage label that not only attracts attention but also authentically represents the brand, resonating with customers.
Step 2: Customer Profiling and Research
After understanding the brand, the next important step in the beverage label design process is customer profiling and research. This step will tell you the preferences and expectations of the target audience. You can use this insight to craft a fitting and attractive beverage label.
You can use surveys, focus groups and market testing to understand the following elements of your target audience:
- Target demographics: These may include age, gender, income level, education, family status, location, and occupation.
- Psychological analysis: lifestyle choices, including interests, daily activities, personality, values and beliefs.
- Purchasing behavior: What motivates target consumers to purchase beverages? Taste, health benefits or brand loyalty? How often do they buy drinks? Where do they usually buy? Supermarkets, online stores, grocery stores, etc.
Drink manufacturers use non-GMO, clean-label ingredients to keep up with consumer trends.
By focusing on customer profiling and research, beverage companies can create labels that not only stand out on the shelf but also connect with consumers on a personal level, leading to increased brand loyalty and sales.
Step 3: Drink Packaging Analysis
The next step in the beverage label design process is drink packaging analysis. A good beverage label design must complement and enhance the beverage’s physical shape. This means you must pay attention to the function and appearance of the drink content.
Consider the following elements:
- What are the measurements to ensure the label can fit perfectly on the packaging?
- What type of label will be suitable for the packaging (printed on cartons, shrink label for cans, or heat transfer for glass bottles)?
- Should the label and packaging material be transparent to reveal the beverage content?
- Under what conditions will the beverage be kept, and which type of label can withstand it?
- Does the packaging have any opening/closing mechanisms to keep in mind?
CCL’s eco-friendly label portfolio
A thorough examination of drink packaging results in a thoughtfully designed label that improves the product’s marketability, guarantees customer satisfaction, and upholds the brand’s reputation. In the highly competitive beverage industry, manufacturers seeking to succeed must consider this analysis as a crucial step in the label design process.
Step 4: Regulatory Compliance on label claims
Every single word and logo on your label is heavily controlled by government regulations. They make sure that all information and claims on the label accurately reflect the product’s quality. This is to allow consumers to make an informed decision and protect their safety.
Carefully research the regulatory standards that apply in the market where the beverage is sold. This includes local, national, and international guidance. Identify required information on the label, such as:
- Product’s name
- List of ingredients
- Nutritional information
- Allergen statement
- Net quantity of contents
- Detailed information about the manufacturer or distributor
Provide all required information according to regulations (especially potential allergens in the product). Brands can also incorporate story elements to create connections. Many brands are integrating the use of QR codes to encourage consumer interaction.
If a brand wants to make claims (e.g. “low sugar”, “zero calories”), make sure these claims are substantiated and compliant.
Depending on the market, labels may have to be translated into multiple languages. So make sure the translation is accurate and culturally appropriate.
Nok’s energy drink label features a simple, minimalistic design with clear, concise text
Step 5: Creating the Final Design
With a deep understanding of the brand, customer and packaging, as well as the required content, a brand can begin to create the final label design.
A successful and aesthetically pleasing design for a beverage label is influenced by a number of essential components:
- Consider the container type (bottle, can, etc.) and choose label sizes that fit appropriately. Make sure the label is neither too big (overpowering the packaging) nor too small (difficult to read).
- The product name must be stated clearly on the label along with the brand logo. A tagline or brief description may be included in the label.
- Product information such as nutritional and ingredient list, usage instructions, etc.
- Contact details include the manufacturer’s address, website, and customer support information.
- Legal requirements such as warnings (e.g., “Keep refrigerated,” “Shake well before use”) and country-specific labels (e.g., FDA, EU regulations)
- Think about using typography, color schemes, and imagery that complement the type of beverage. Fruit imagery and colors akin to fruits are commonly used in the labeling of juice drinks. Energy drinks, on the other hand, emphasize “energy” and boldness with bright colors like green and red.
By carefully executing these steps, you can create a final label design that effectively represents your brand and meets all regulatory requirements.
Step 6: Printing the Label
For beverage labels, a variety of printing methods are employed, each with specific benefits:
| Digital printing | Digital printing is a technique that prints digital images straight onto the label substrate. This method is flexible and enables rapid production of full-color, high-quality prints. |
| Flexographic printing
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Flexographic printing, also known as “flexo” printing, is a printing technique that uses a flexible plastic or rubber relief plate. The inked plates with a slightly raised image are rotated on a cylinder and applied to the label material.
Flexo is known for its fast printing speeds and ability to use various inks on various substrates. |
| Offset printing
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Offset printing, commonly called lithography, is a popular printing method for creating large quantities of labels, including those for beverages. It involves transferring an inked image from a plate to a rubber blanket and then onto the printing surface.
This method is highly valued for its excellent print quality and ability to produce fine details and smooth gradients.
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Beverage label printing using offset printing
Select label material
There are several materials that can be used to make beverage labels, and each has unique advantages.
| Paper | Thanks to its affordability and range of finishes (matte, gloss, and textured), paper is a popular and versatile choice for beverage labels. But since it can absorb water and deteriorate, it is best for products not to be exposed to moisture. For moisture-prone beverages, water-resistant and waterproof paper options with protective coatings or laminates are available. |
| Polyester film (PET) | Polyester film, or PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate), is widely used for beverage labels due to its excellent resistance to moisture, chemicals, and decay. PET labels are extremely robust and resistant to freezing, submersion in ice or water, and outdoor weathering. For added functionality and aesthetic appeal, they can also be finished with coatings such as gloss, matte, metallic effects, and UV safety. |
| Polypropylene | For beverage labels, polypropylene (PP) is an economical, long-lasting plastic that resists chemicals, oil, and water. PP labels are resilient to tearing, pliable, and appropriate for handling or squeezing containers. They are perfect for products that are refrigerated or sometimes stored because they can tolerate temperature changes. |
| Vinyl | Vinyl is a plastic or synthetic resin that is perfect for flexible and long-lasting beverage labels. Vinyl labels are incredibly robust; they can withstand heavy use, exposure to the elements, and can fit into a variety of container shapes and sizes, including curved ones. |
| Shrink-sleeve | Made of plastic film, shrink-sleeve labels provide 360-degree design coverage for a variety of shapes and sizes by shrinking to fit the curves of a container when heated.
These labels are strong, resistant to moisture, and perfect in damp or cold environments. They support vivid, high-quality printing with detailed graphics. |
| Film | Film materials are renowned for their strength, pliability, and ability to withstand chemicals, oils, and moisture. Common types include: Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene, or BOPP, polyethylene (PE) and PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate).
These film labels are compatible with high-quality graphics and are available in metallic, clear, or white finishes. |
Shrink sleeves are suitable for nearly every shape
Decide on label finish
Finishes can improve the toughness and aesthetic appeal of beverage labels. Popular choices consist of:
| Embossing | A post-printing technique called embossing is used to give the labels’ surface raised images or textured text. The printing process usually involves using a printing die. This finish gives the label a tactile quality that makes it stand out both to the eye and the touch. |
| Spot varnish | Spot varnish is a finishing technique where varnish is applied to specific areas of a label rather than the entire surface. This produces a contrast between the sheen and texture, giving certain elements—like logos or images—a glossy or textured appearance that makes them stand out. It’s used to enhance visual interest and draw attention to particular parts of the label design |
| Foil stamping | Foil stamping is a printing method that uses pressure and heat to apply a metallic foil to the label surface, giving it a glossy, luxurious appearance. It is frequently used to draw attention to logos, brand names, and other design elements by giving them a metallic appearance that can vary from bronze to gold, silver, or holographic effects. This finish adds a premium quality to beverage labels. |
| Glossy | A glossy finish on beverage labels is achieved by applying a full laminate or varnish that gives the label a shiny, reflective surface. With this finish, colors are more vibrant and text and images stand out more, which can make your product stand out on the shelf. It is a well-liked option for producing a striking and upscale appearance. |
| Satin | Usually, the label surface is coated with a UV varnish to achieve this satin finish.
It gives off a soft, smooth appearance without a strong light reflection, giving off an elegant, sophisticated appearance. |
| Matte | Matte finishes are created by applying a specific laminate that reduces shine and can also help hide imperfections like bubbles.
Instead of reflecting light, a matte finish diffuses it with a non-glossy, muted appearance. This kind of finish offers a refined and attractive appearance that is frequently connected to a natural or contemporary aesthetic. |
Embossed labels help the products stand out
By carefully managing the printing process, you can ensure that the final beverage label is of high quality, accurately reflects the design, and meets all functional and aesthetic requirements. This step is important to create a strong first impression on consumers and ensure the product’s success in the market.
Tips to design an attractive beverage label
Creating an outstanding beverage label is a combination of art and science. Here are some beverage label design tips to consider:
Make your Unique Selling Point (USP) pop
A clear USP can quickly capture the attention of consumers who are looking for specific features or benefits. It communicates the value proposition of your product, explaining why it’s worth choosing over others. By making your USP prominent, you influence consumer decision-making at the point of purchase.
Here are some beverage label design tips to make your USP stand out:
- Use bold fonts and eye-catching colors. Craft your USP into a short, memorable phrase or sentence.
- Create a compelling story around the USP and incorporate it into the design.
- Add QR or NFC codes to lead users to videos, testimonials or behind-the-scenes footage.
- Make a statement with a distinctive label design.
Find the right image and iconography
Visuals play an important role in attracting consumer attention. Images and icons can instantly draw the eye and make the label more visually appealing. The right visuals can evoke emotions and create a connection with the consumer. They can tell a story about the brand or product, conveying messages that words alone cannot.
Therefore, incorporating effective images and iconography can significantly enhance the impact of a beverage label, making it more memorable and likely to attract consumer attention.
Every Retrogusto label honors a different Uzbek region
Unique typography, but with good readability
Good typography helps establish a visual hierarchy, guiding the consumer’s eye to the most important information. By striking a balance between visual distinctiveness and readability, brands can create labels that stand out, driving engagement and purchase decisions.
Design to the right price levels and demographics
Design elements tailored to specific demographics, such as age, gender, and income level, ensure that the brand will resonate with the target audience. Aligning the label design with the demographic’s expectations can increase the likelihood of purchase. Because it ensures that the product feels relevant and desirable.
For high-priced beverages, a sophisticated and premium label design can convey a sense of luxury and exclusivity, reinforcing the premium status of the product. For products aimed at budget-conscious consumers, simpler, cleaner labels may convey affordability and practicality.
Use the right colors
Colors evoke emotions and can influence how consumers feel about a product. The right color palette can strengthen brand identity and make the label instantly recognizable. Colors have different meanings in various cultures, so it’s important to choose ones that are suitable to your product and resonate positively with the target demographic.
To give some examples:
- Blue is a color of purity and freshness; it goes well with water and sports drinks.
- Orange, red, and green are the ideal colors for juices because they closely resemble the natural colors of fruits and vegetables.
- Vibrant hues like orange or red typically go well with sodas because they imply vigor and excitement.
- Darker hues, like black or burgundy, are usually associated with wine and symbolize sophistication and wealth.
- Earthy tones are the preferred color for beers because they allude to custom and craftsmanship.
Fruit-inspired colors are commonly used on fruit juice labels.
Work closely with your label printing guys
Label printing professionals have the technical expertise to ensure the design translates well into a physical label. They can advise on the best materials and finishes that will enhance the label’s appearance and durability. Printers often have access to the latest printing technologies and can suggest innovative ways to make your label stand out.
That is why, working closely with them allows for better quality control and immediate feedback on any issues.
Give your labels the right finish
A good finish adds a tactile dimension to the label, which can improve the overall consumer experience. Finishes such as gloss, matte, or metallic help add depth to label designs, making colors more vibrant. Textured finishes such as embossing provide a sensory experience for consumers, encouraging them to interact with the label, and explore other design elements.
Conclusion
These beverage label design tips are crucial for creating a label that not only looks attractive but also builds trust with customers by providing clear and easy-to-find information. Remember, a well-designed label can significantly impact purchasing decisions by sparking interest and conveying quality before the product is even tasted.
If you’re a beverage manufacturer looking to create attractive labels to differentiate your products, look no further than Tan Do. With years of experience in ODM and OEM, we understand the nuances of label design and printing, offering expert guidance and creative solutions to meet each customer’s unique needs.
Whether it’s a modern design for an energy drink, or a nostalgic design for a craft beverage, Tan Do has the expertise and creativity to turn any vision into reality. Contact us today to elevate your beverage brand!
