In reponse to growing retail market demand for EAS (Electronic Article Surveillance) anti theft labels and tags, UK based systems integrator KTP, is now operating a press which embeds EAS circuits within self adhesive labels and swing tickets.
The specially modified Omega press, supplied by AB Graphic, is installed at KTP’s label store operation in Beverley, where new premises have been opened to cope with increased demand for the labels, which are first printed on an Arsoma flexo press
Production Manager Phil Clark says that while EAS tags and technology have been around for some years, until now few suppliers could embed the circuits in a label and print graphics and/or a bar code with high quality results.
“We have been overprinting various manufacturers’ EAS tags in our bureau using the thermal transfer process for some years now, along with the overprinting of ordinary labels, and we will continue to offer this service as it is a 24/48 hour quick response, and enables variable data to be incorporated as required. However, I am often asked when we will be able to print a more aesthetically pleasing full colour security label or tag using flexo or letterpress, as many EAS labels and tags are now used as part of product packaging design rather than just the security element.”
The integrated labels KTP can now supply are fully customizable in a wide range of material options. They contain the concealed anti theft circuits together with product information, pricing and bar code data if required, whilst giving full brand identity – and at the flexo print quality of other KTP labels. They are said to offer excellent protection against theft in a retail environment as they are difficult to detect and remove, and are a more cost effective solution as an integrated label offers ‘added value’ by becoming part of the customer’s brand.