01 Oct 2026 Label Trends From Industry Experts: Materials, Finishes & Print Innovations

Labels may be small, but they play a big role in how products succeed. They have to meet compliance requirements, communicate brand identity, and capture consumer attention—all in just a few square inches.

In 2025, label design is evolving fast. Brands across food, cannabis, beverage, and horticulture are looking for ways to stand out while also staying efficient. Luckily, our teams spend all day, every day steeped in all things labels—from finishes to substrates to smarter printing methods, here are the trends that are shaping labels this year according to our experts.

1. How To Use Matte + Gloss Contrast

Matte finishes are nothing new, but pairing them with spot gloss accents is trending across industries. This contrast makes logos, product names, or illustrations stand out while keeping the overall look refined.

Why it works: The tactile and visual contrast creates premium appeal without requiring expensive embellishments like foil or embossing.

It can be tricky to make a confident decision on what elements of your labels should be gloss or matte. The Hickman team regularly sees hundreds of labels and are happy to consult with you on what would work best for your label and goals—get in touch here.

2. What Are Pros and Cons of Clear & Transparent Labels?

The “no-label” look continues to grow, especially in beverages, wellness, and specialty food. Clear labels let the product itself become part of the design.

Best practices:

• Use white plates strategically so text and logos remain opaque.
• Combine transparency with bold color blocks to balance clarity and branding.
• Consider curved surfaces when choosing adhesives—clear films need flexibility.

3. How Are Metallic Stocks Being Used in 2025?

Shimmer is in. Metallic BOPP substrates allow selective metallic effects without the complexity of foil stamping.

Applications:

• Premium cannabis or beverage products.
• Highlighting product tiers or limited editions.
• Pairing with spot gloss for even stronger shelf appeal.

4. What Are The Benefits of Variable Data Printing (VDP)?

With shorter runs and more SKUs, VDP is becoming essential. It allows unique data—batch codes, flavors, even QR codes—to be printed without changing the overall label design.

Benefits:

• SKU flexibility for seasonal or limited-edition products.
• Easier traceability and compliance.
• Cost savings versus running separate designs.

5. Are We Still Using Icons On Labels?

Shoppers don’t want to hunt for details. Icons and pictograms are becoming the preferred way to communicate product attributes quickly.

Examples:

• “Gluten-free” or “Vegan” dietary icons on specialty foods.
• Cannabis form icons (flower, cartridge, edible).
• Sun and water symbols on nursery plants.

Icons help simplify messaging and cut across language barriers.

6. What Are The Color Trends for 2025?

Color psychology is driving label choices more than ever:

• Muted neutrals: Popular in wellness and food categories, signaling calm and authenticity.
• High-contrast brights: Gaining ground in cannabis and energy products for their youthful, energetic appeal.
• Monochrome confidence: One-color dominance paired with strong typography conveys boldness and simplicity.

Choosing the right palette is as much about brand positioning as it is about aesthetics.

Bonus: Make sure your on-screen colors match with their printed versions by following our easy guide.

7. What Kind of Labels Stand Out To Customers?

Labels aren’t staying flat rectangles anymore. Brands are experimenting with formats that add interaction and storytelling.

Examples:

• Wraparound 360° labels for immersive storytelling.
• Multi-layer peel-backs with recipes, dosage info, or promotions.
• Custom die-cuts that echo the product or brand identity.

These formats turn labels into functional and creative assets.

8. Does It Matter What Label Printing Company You Choose?

Trends are only as good as their execution. Working with a knowledgeable label partner ensures effects like metallics, white plates, or spot gloss print as intended.

The team here at Hickman can support you with:

• Substrate selection (clear vs. metallic vs. opaque films).
• Print prep (separating white plates, metallics, and gloss layers).
• Choosing the right print method (digital vs. hybrid) for efficiency.

2025 is a year of contrast, clarity, and creativity in labeling. Spot gloss against matte finishes, clear substrates that showcase the product, metallic accents, and smart use of VDP are shaping how brands connect with consumers.

For producers, the takeaway is simple: the label is no longer just a compliance tool. It’s a brand’s first impression—and one of its strongest sales tools. Staying ahead of these trends ensures your labels don’t just meet requirements but also win attention where it matters most: on the shelf.

Updated: October 2025