How Retailers Are Rethinking Labelling for a Sustainability

The retail landscape is undergoing a quiet transformation — not just in what’s on the shelf, but in how it's presented. As sustainability climbs to the top of consumer and corporate agendas, retailers are reassessing every element of their packaging strategies. Labels, often overlooked, are becoming a critical component in the push for greener, more responsible practices.

At Smith & McLaurin, we’re seeing this shift up close. Across categories — from food to personal care to household products — our retail partners are no longer treating label stock as an afterthought. They're asking the right questions: Is this material recyclable? What’s its carbon footprint? Can it help tell our sustainability story?

Labels as a Statement of Intent

In today’s market, a label does more than display a product name — it reflects a brand’s values. With growing regulatory pressure and rising consumer expectations, forward-thinking retailers are recognising that sustainable labelling is not just good practice — it's a competitive advantage.

This isn’t just about switching to FSC®-certified materials or increasing recycled content (although both are important). It’s about rethinking the label from the ground up: choosing adhesives that support recycling, and designing for circularity from the start.

The Demand for Innovation and Agility

The pace of change is rapid, and retailers need agile partners who can innovate without compromising on quality or lead times. That’s where we come in. At SMCL, we combine decades of technical expertise with a hands-on, collaborative approach — co-developing sustainable solutions that meet both environmental goals and commercial realities.

We’re pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. And because we control our production in-house, we can pivot quickly — helping retailers test, launch, and scale new concepts with confidence.

It’s Not One Size Fits All

Sustainability looks different for every brand. Some prioritise recyclability, others focus on carbon reduction or waste minimisation. The key is customisation — tailoring materials and formats to meet specific goals. Our role is to listen, understand, and deliver options that align with each retailer’s unique priorities.

What’s clear is this: labelling can no longer be a passive element of packaging strategy. It must be actively designed to support sustainability — both in practice and perception.

Looking Ahead

As regulation tightens and consumer scrutiny increases, the retailers leading the way will be those who see labelling not as a cost centre, but as a platform for innovation and progress.

At SMCL, we’re proud to partner with retailers who share our vision for a more sustainable future — one label at a time.

Get in touch today—call us on 01505 707700 or email info@smcl.co.uk.