Labels UK installs HP Indigo 6K

Labels UK, a leading label printing provider has completed the installation of the HP Indigo 6K Digital Press, marking a pivotal upgrade in its production capabilities and digital transformation strategy.

Labels UK delivers premium quality, personalized labels while embracing cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices. The investment reflects the company's strategy to expand high-value variable data printing (VDP) while advancing sustainability across its operations.

The HP Indigo 6K Digital Press is the industry's benchmark narrow-web for labels and flexible packaging, combining LEP print quality and One-Shot Color for precise, repeatable color with up to seven stations and a broad ElectroInk portfolio (including White, Silver and fluorescents).

For converters, its production stack, including Spot Master, Automatic Alert Agent, in-line Priming Unit and the PrintOS Production Pro, translates into shorter changeovers, fewer touchpoints, lower waste and consistently high-quality output.

The digital press supports a wide range of media (from pressure-sensitive to shrink sleeves and light cartons). It integrates with in-line/off-line digital embellishment, helping converters win premium SKUs while turning short runs and personalization into profitable, day-to-day work.

David Dobson, managing director, Labels UK, said: 'At Labels UK, we see HP as the industry standard for digital label printing.

'Investing in the HP Indigo 6K allows us to deliver the highest quality to our customers. Our trials with the technology reaffirmed our belief in its high-quality, and the advanced software capabilities enable us to provide high-volume variable data printing to meet the specific demands of our clients. This is part of our ongoing commitment to continued investment in the latest innovations, helping us stay ahead in a competitive market and deliver the best possible products.'

Andy Pike, marketing manager, HP Industrial Print EMEA, said: 'It's fantastic to see how the HP Indigo 6K Digital Press is enabling the Labels UK team to deliver even more value to their customers and strengthen their position in a highly competitive market.

'By combining print quality with advanced automation and workflow tools, the press is helping Labels UK to meet growing demand for variable data printing and personalization while driving greater efficiency and sustainability.'

The decision to purchase the HP Indigo 6K was driven by the need to overcome limitations in speed, flexibility, and output quality. Installing the HP Indigo 6K accelerates RIP (Raster Image Processing), which converts design files into print-ready data so artwork is ready to print faster, and boosts VDP (Variable Data Printing, where text, images, barcodes or serialized codes change on every label).

These efficiencies mean Labels UK has been able to remove any production bottlenecks previously experienced by print operators. The digital press also delivers broad media versatility to support creative and sustainability goals, and produces consistent, premium color. This enables Labels UK to create personalized packaging and short-run, high-impact campaigns.

Labels UK has been an early participant in HP's Jump Start programme, gaining hands-on experience with HP PrintOS. This cloud-based operating system is already helping the team streamline workflows, improve job tracking, and enhance internal efficiencies. The company has also received its HP HoloLens XR headset and is preparing to explore augmented reality services to automate further and simplify production processes.

The acquisition was made possible through tailored financing equipment from HP Financial Services (HPFS), which adapted lease terms to allow Labels UK to proceed with the purchase before completing its existing lease on the Konica press. This flexibility was instrumental in accelerating the company's transition to next-generation digital print technology.

The HP Indigo 6K replaces Labels UK's previous Konica 230 press, offering a significant leap in productivity, media versatility, and print quality. The installation was completed at the company's Irlam facility on April 28, 2025, and is already enabling the business to meet growing demand for high-volume variable data printing (VDP), personalization, and fast turnaround times.

The HP Indigo 6K is now fully operational, enabling Labels UK to deliver to its customers faster while being more sustainable.