Durable, High-Speed Branding Built into the Moulding Process
UB Plastics offers in-mould labelling (IML) as part of its injection moulding service, delivering crisp, durable decoration that’s integrated directly into the finished product. IML eliminates the need for secondary labelling or printing, helping reduce costs and speed up production, all while creating a high-quality branded finish.
Why Choose UB Plastics for In-Mould Labelling
We’ve built our reputation on practical experience, dependable service and long-term customer partnerships. With advanced mould tooling, automation and design support, we offer a complete moulding service – from concept to final delivery. Trusted by global brands and committed to sustainability, UB Plastics is a reliable partner for high-performance moulded parts.
Built on Experience
With roots going back to 1983, UB Plastics has decades of know-how in injection moulding. Trusted by major brands. We’re proud of our heritage, and even prouder of where it’s taken us.
Advanced Capability
We run 23 injection moulding machines, from 35T to 220T, with high-speed robotics and in-mould labelling. It means we can deliver consistent, high-volume production with precision – every time.
Committed to Sustainability
From recycled tamper-evident caps to efficient, low-waste production, we help our customers meet sustainability goals without compromising on quality.
End-to-End Support
We go beyond moulding – offering in-house design, tooling, stockholding and delivery, to make your project run smoothly from start to finish.
Trusted by Leading Brands
We’ve earned the confidence of major names in brewing, food, packaging and construction – by delivering quality, reliability and service that speaks for itself.
What is In-Mould Labelling?
In-mould labelling is a process where a pre-printed label is placed into the tool cavity before injection moulding. As the plastic fills the mould, it bonds with the label to form a single finished part. This method produces clean, long-lasting graphics that don’t peel, fade or require secondary handling.
We use high-speed IML systems to apply up to five-colour labels to parts such as tamper-evident caps, lids, tubs and custom moulded packaging. Due to being fully integrated into the manufacturing process with automation and advanced machinery, IML can be added to products with minimal effects to overall cycle times and unit costs, when compared to a separate post-mould finishing service.
In-mould labelling is ideal for food packaging, branded closures and any product where professional presentation matters.
Our IML Capabilities
At our Burton-upon-Trent site, we operate fully automated injection moulding machines fitted with high-speed robotic IML systems. These are used across multi-cavity tools to produce millions of parts annually with precise, repeatable labelling.
- Up to 5-colour IML branding
- Fully automated multi-cavity moulding with integrated robotics
- Label placement within millimetre tolerances
- Full integration with our injection moulding and design processes
We work closely with customers to ensure their artwork and label specifications meet both aesthetic and performance goals.
Sectors we serve
Our in-mould labelling service is used widely in the brewing and food packaging sectors, particularly for products like tamper-evident caps, spoon packs and tubs. We also support customers in other industries where consistent branding and product traceability are essential. Regardless of the use-case for your moulding projects, we’d always be happy to assess the viability of IML, along with other printing options, for any custom moulding quotation.
Brewing
We supply millions of moulded parts for the brewing sector, including closures, keystones and shives. Built for function, made for efficiency.
Learn moreBeverage
From soft drinks to spirits, we mould closures, caps and dispensing parts for beverage brands big and small.
Learn moreFood Packaging
Tamper-evident caps, containers, spoons and more, made to meet strict food safety and packaging standards.
Learn moreConstruction
From site essentials to custom fixtures, we mould strong, functional components to support demanding construction environments.
Learn moreCustom Mouldings
Need something bespoke? We offer flexible moulding capacity for trade customers across the UK.
Learn more
Quality & Compliance
UB Plastics is ISO 9001:2015 certified and operates a documented quality system covering every stage of production, including IML processes. We use approved food-contact-safe label materials where required and maintain strict controls on labelling accuracy, adhesion and finish. In-process checks ensure your branded parts meet consistent visual and technical standards every time.
Get in Touch Today
Looking for a manufacturer to support your next moulding project with advanced IML integration? Contact our team to request samples, discuss specifications or place an order.
Frequently Asked Questions
In-mould labelling (IML) is a powerful addition to injection moulding — but it’s often unfamiliar to those new to the process. Below are some common questions about IML, how it works and what to consider when planning a project.
IML creates a seamless, high-quality label that won’t peel or rub off. It also reduces handling, avoids adhesive issues and adds no extra time to the production cycle once setup is complete.
IML is ideal for plastic parts that require decoration, branding or product information, such as caps, tubs, trays, lids or closures. It’s especially popular in food and beverage packaging.
We offer IML with up to five-colour printing. This allows for full branding, including logos, batch codes, QR codes, and legally required on-pack information.
Yes. We use food-contact-approved label substrates and inks. These are suitable for chilled, ambient and frozen applications.
Yes. Due to the setup involved, IML is best suited for medium to high volumes. Minimums vary by part but typically start around 10,000 units per SKU.
Lead time depends on label design approval, tooling and volume, but most IML projects run on similar timelines to standard moulding, typically 4–12 weeks for new tools.
Yes. We can produce sample parts once labels and tools are ready. We also offer pre-production proofs of label artwork for approval.
We accept vector-based artwork files, typically in PDF, AI or EPS format, with bleed and safe zones defined. Our team can help adjust your artwork for IML use.
While IML involves higher setup costs than moulding alone, it often reduces the need for secondary processes like printing or labelling, enabling savings in both time and part cost on high-volume projects.
Yes. We can provide guidance on label layout, technical requirements and visual design to ensure your branding works effectively within the IML process.