There are strict government guidelines surrounding shisha tobacco packaging printing, such as the need to include a health warning.
That doesn’t mean you can add your own colours, logos, and commentaries. You should simply be aware of the Tobacco Plain Packaging Act 2011 and the Tobacco Plain Packaging Regulations 2011.
Options When Printing
To get the required information onto your shisha tobacco packaging you’ll need to decide which print option is best for you, your budget, and your product. In general, it’s simplest to put the required information onto your shisha tobacco via one of two printing methods.
Directly Onto Packaging
The first option is to print everything you want to say directly onto your packaging. In other words, before your product is packaged, you will cut the packaging to size and print all the desired information on it.
This is usually completed during the packaging process. Ideally, you’ll use a packaging machine. This will allow you to create the packaging and print it before it’s wrapped around the shisha tobacco.
In general, this is the more efficient approach and you’ll notice an increase in productivity.
You will also be able to print anywhere and everywhere on your packaging, helping you create a unique and inviting product.
Pre-Printed Labels
The alternative is to print labels after the tobacco has been wrapped. The labels can be printed by hand and applied by hand. It’s also possible to incorporate label printing into the packaging machine.
This approach is generally cheaper. However, it doesn’t always look as professional and you won’t be making the most of all the space available on your packaging material.
In addition, if you don’t use a machine you may find that the labels are not all positioned in exactly the same spot. This makes your product look cheap and is likely to negatively affect your sales.
Printing Types
When you’re thinking about printing you‘ll need to acknowledge that there are several forms of printing you should be aware of.
Digital
This is the newest option and has become a very popular choice. It’s usually the cheapest option and the fastest. There are several forms of digital printing including inkjet. It’s the same techniques as you’re already used to in the office and at home. Minute jets blast the ink onto the packaging material in a predetermined format.
You’ll find this is good for a wide variety of surfaces, particularly cardboard and paper-based ones.
Lithography
This is often referred to as offset printing and requires your printing image to be put on an aluminium plate. The image is then imprinted onto a rubber blanket and then onto your packaging option.
It is more expensive but is seen as a more luxurious option. Again, this is a popular choice for cardboard and paper-based packaging.
Gravure
This type of printing is designed to be used on metal. It uses multiple cylinders with each cylinder having its own colour. The ink is placed onto your packaging material slowly, ensuring it creates a superior image, one that will last the test of time.
You’re only likely to select this option if you’re offering shisha tobacco packaging printing at the top end of the luxury scale.
How To Choose The Best Shisha Tobacco Packaging Printing Method
There are several things to consider before you select a shisha tobacco packaging printing technique.
Budget
Automating the printing process to allow printing directly onto the packaging is the better option for large quantities of print. They are a cost-effective solution and generally last long term.
Size Of Packaging
The bigger the packaging the more space you have to add your message and make your product inviting. This encourages you to use direct packaging printing.
In contrats, small packages can be more easily covered with the right sized label.
Type Of Material
Shisha tobacco can be wrapped in several types of plastic, wood, metal, and evn stiff paper. Each of these has their own printing requirements. Make sure you kow what they are before you start packaging.
Target Customer
Your customers will have expectations.
Some customer groups will want to see environmentally friendly packaging, others simply want a luxury appearance. Knowing your customer helps you choose the material and therefore the right packaging printing technique.
Complexity Of Design
The more complex your print design the easier it will be to incorporate it into the packaging before the product is wrapped. Complex designs are best used with direct printing methods.
Regulations
You should always recheck the regulations after you’ve decided on a print type and the design. This is a great opportunity to ensure your tobacco complies with all the current regulations.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Shisha tobacco packaging printing doesn’t need to be difficult. Knowing the most common sizes and taking the time to assess what it is you’re selling, will simplify the process. Of course, it helps to know what your customers are after.
You should also make sure your print complies with regulations and appeals to your target audience.
