Are you a manufacturer considering investing in a new labeler? Switching to a machine can save you money on labor and enhance product consistency. The right labeler, whether semi-auto or completely automatic, can pay for itself faster than you might expect.
How can you tell? By calculating return-on-investment, or ROI. Let’s look at how you can do that.
Start with the Basics: The ROI Formula
We can calculate ROI like so: (Net Gain from Investment/Cost of Investment) × 100.
When it comes to labelers, your net gain comes from savings and revenue improvements that come from automating the process. This involves reducing labor, increasing production speed, making fewer labeling errors, and improving product quality—all of which translate into real financial benefits.
Factor in Labor Savings
Manual labeling is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and prone to inconsistency. An automatic labeling machine can dramatically reduce the number of workers required on the packaging line.
For example, imagine your operation currently uses two employees to hand-label products at a rate of 15 units per minute. An automatic labeling system could easily double or triple that speed while requiring only one operator for setup and monitoring.
If you pay each employee $20 per hour and your machine runs 8 hours per day, labor savings alone can reach tens of thousands of dollars per year. Over time, those savings significantly outweigh the initial cost of the equipment.
Include Productivity and Throughput Gains
Speed and accuracy are key performance drivers. By adding a high-speed labeler, you can increase the number of products labeled per minute without sacrificing quality.
Faster production cycles mean more inventory ready for distribution and higher potential revenue. If you need to scale or keep up with seasonal demand, a faster labeling process can help avoid missed deadlines or costly overtime.
When calculating ROI, estimate the additional revenue you can generate by meeting higher production targets. This can help you determine your growth potential.
Account for Reduced Waste and Rework
Every mislabeled or crooked product is money lost. Manual application increases the risk of label misalignment, bubbles, or wrinkles, which can make products look unprofessional—or worse, noncompliant with relevant labeling regulations.
An automatic labeling machine ensures consistent, precise placement every time. This reduces label waste, minimizes product rework, and protects your brand’s professional image. Over time, those savings contribute to a faster ROI and a stronger reputation for quality.
Don’t Overlook Maintenance and Longevity
While the initial cost of a labeler is an important part of your ROI calculation, so is its lifespan and reliability. Cheap or poorly built machines may require more frequent repairs or replacements, which can erode your profit margins.
Accutek’s labeling machines, for instance, are designed for durability, with easy-to-service components and reliable automation controls. By investing in a high-quality system, you minimize downtime and maintenance costs—further improving long-term ROI.
Consider the Intangibles
Some benefits of a labeling machine don’t show up directly on a spreadsheet but still impact your profitability. Faster production allows you to fulfill orders sooner, maintain happier customers, and stay competitive in your market.
Also, a professional, accurately applied label enhances your product’s shelf appeal and brand image—factors that can indirectly drive higher sales and customer loyalty.
Calculating the ROI of a labeler isn’t just about crunching numbers—it’s about understanding how automation transforms your entire packaging process. By analyzing labor savings, production speed, waste reduction, and long-term reliability, you can clearly see how the right equipment pays for itself many times over.
At Accutek Packaging Machine & Equipment, we design labelers that maximize speed, accuracy, and return on investment. Whether you’re labeling bottles, jars, or complex containers, our machines are engineered to deliver measurable value from day one.
If you’re ready to improve your production efficiency and start seeing results, call Accutek to explore our range of labeling machines today—and see how fast your investment can start working for you.
