Packaging Dive · 3 Sep, 14:53 · Technology briefing

On the mark: Laser technologies offer alternative to packaging labels

Laser technology is emerging as a viable alternative to traditional adhesive labels in the packaging industry.

What it means for you ↓ Courses for this story

30%premium for professionals who pair domain skills with tech fluency

3.5xfaster skill turnover — staying current is the moat

74%of employers fund staff who self-start upskilling

20days to your first credential

The briefing

The story
in brief.

What happened, who it affects, and why it landed on our intelligence desk — in plain English, sixty seconds or less.

Laser technology is emerging as a viable alternative to traditional adhesive labels in the packaging industry. This shift addresses growing sustainability concerns and operational inefficiencies associated with paper and plastic labels. By etching directly onto containers, manufacturers can reduce waste and streamline production lines. The development signals a broader move towards integrated, eco-friendly packaging solutions. Professionals in manufacturing and logistics should note this trend, as it challenges conventional labelling practices. This innovation supports circular economy goals by eliminating removable materials. Companies adopting this method may see reduced material costs and improved brand aesthetics. The technology represents a significant evolution in how products are identified and tracked throughout the supply chain.

Employer demand for Supply Chain skills — indexed growth since 2019
Indicative index of skill mentions in professional job postings for the field this story moves (2019 = 1)

Your move

What this means
for your career.

Every headline redistributes opportunity. Here is who this one rewards — and how to be on the right side of it.

This shift demands that you rethink your approach to packaging design and supply chain management. Roles in materials engineering and sustainable manufacturing will see increased demand. You should focus on mastering laser application techniques and understanding regulatory compliance for direct-marked goods. If you work in procurement, prioritise suppliers with advanced laser capabilities. Upskill in industrial automation to stay relevant as production lines adapt. Monitor competitor strategies closely, as early adopters gain a sustainability edge. Consider cross-training in environmental science to better communicate the ecological benefits of label-free packaging. This transition rewards professionals who can bridge technical innovation with strategic business objectives.

For this story, the fields that convert it into pay are Supply Chain, Engineering, Innovation and Business And Management — exactly the programmes matched below. The chart shows the indicative salary uplift certified professionals report in each of those fields; every one of them is a click away, from £79, finishing in as few as 20 days.

Indicative salary uplift in the fields matched to this story
Indicative ranges from published continuing-education salary studies, by field — each field is a recommended course below

Matched to this story

Enrol in these
to benefit.

These programmes position you for exactly this shift — online, self-paced, and finishing with a verifiable certificate you can share the day you pass.