The History of Labels

Posted by : Mercury Labels Ltd on Thursday, February 16, 2023 in Printed Labels.

The history of labels dates back thousands of years, with
some of the earliest forms of labelling being used to identify ownership and
provide information about the contents of containers.

In ancient times, labels were often made from materials like
clay and wax, and were used to mark the contents of containers and to indicate
ownership. During the Middle Ages, labels became more sophisticated, with the
introduction of the printing press allowing for the mass production of labels.
These early labels were used for a variety of purposes, including labelling
food products and marking the contents of storage containers.

The industrial revolution brought about significant
advancements in the production of labels, with the introduction of
steam-powered printing presses and the development of new materials, such as
paper and adhesive. This led to the widespread use of labels for product
labelling, as well as for promotional and advertising purposes.

The 20th century saw a surge in the use of labels, with the
rise of mass production and consumerism leading to an increased demand for
labelling products. The introduction of barcodes in the 1970s revolutionized
the way products were tracked and managed, making it easier for businesses to
keep track of inventory and manage supply chains.

In recent years, the development of new technology has led
to the creation of new types of labels, such as QR codes and RFID labels. These
labels have made it easier for consumers to access information about products
and have helped to streamline the supply chain process.

The history of labels is a long and varied one, reflecting the changing needs and priorities of society over the centuries. From early clay and wax seals to modern QR codes and RFID labels, the evolution of labels has been driven by the need to provide information, track products, and streamline the supply chain process. Today, labels continue to play a crucial role in product labelling, providing important information about products and making it easier for consumers, businesses, and regulators to understand and manage them.