Inland rebrands to reflect packaging innovation expertise

Inland (La Crosse, WI) is about more than just labels, which is why the company has rebranded itself to reflect the fact that it has become a leader in advanced packaging technology characterized by growth and expansion into new markets.

Now a comprehensive packaging solutions provider for food, beverage and consumer products, Inland has simplified its identity by dropping the world Label. The company became Inland Label in recognition of its prominence in the beer label industry, propelled by a longstanding relationship with G. Helleman Brewing Company. Prior to that, the company was called Inland Printing.

The emergence of new, sophisticated packaging processes such as in-mold labeling (IML), which merges label and container, presented opportunities for dramatic growth and diversification. Substantial equipment investment and development of technical expertise have been ongoing for more than a decade, beginning with a major laboratory expansion and the addition of a chemist to lead the development team. Inland now presents itself as the North American IML leader.

Inland's new tagline—We power great packaging—alludes to its current portfolio of food, beverage and consumer product packaging and promises further innovation. According to CEO Mark Glendenning, "We aligned our brand with our growth strategy. Over time, we have developed into a robust resource for our customers, and have always been a strategic partner rather than simply a supplier. Our new identity recognizes that."

Brands that want to refresh or enhance their packaging find advantage in Inland's ability to create integrated end-to-end solutions. A commitment to collaborative development has led the company to forge relationships with supply-chain partners including molders and film, coating and equipment manufacturers with whom it is currently engaged in co-development projects.

"Our ability to break new ground grows with each relationship, especially when new characteristics are specified," explained Scott May, Inland's Vice President of Sales and Marketing. "Our resources are quite extensive."

The company spearheaded the development of breakthrough ideas such as the color-changing blue mountains for Coors Light, security features and oxygen barrier packaging. Inland is also known for sustainable initiatives and has reduced its own packaging volume and installed a closed-loop water system to decrease heating and cooling requirements. Inland is part of the Sustainability Institute, a consortium formed by Western Technical College to share and promote green practices.