How Labelling Machinery Can Help Tackle The Skills Shortage

Many industries across the UK — and globally — are facing an ongoing and increasingly complex challenge: a shortage of skilled workers. Construction, engineering, manufacturing, hospitality, and transport have all been hit hard. But the problem doesn’t stop there — even specialist sectors such as printing and packaging are now feeling the impact. As experienced operators retire or move on, and fewer trained workers enter the industry, companies are being forced to rethink how they manage their operations.

One solution that’s gaining traction is investing in in-house labelling machinery — a move that not only helps businesses overcome staffing shortfalls but also improves efficiency, cuts costs, and builds long-term resilience.

In this article, we’ll explain what’s causing the current skills shortage and how the right labelling equipment can help your business stay ahead of it.

What Is The Skills Shortage And What Is Causing It?

The skills shortage is defined by a mismatch between the skills employers need and the availability of suitably trained workers in the job market. This can lead to roles going unfilled for extended periods or being filled by individuals who lack the necessary training, resulting in slower production, lower quality output, and additional pressure on existing staff.

There are several contributing factors behind the current skills shortage:

• A decline in vocational training and fewer apprenticeships in industries like print and manufacturing
• Greater emphasis on academic education, leading fewer students into hands-on or technical trades
• Restrictions on foreign workers following Brexit, limiting access to skilled labour from abroad
• Advancements in technology, which have outpaced traditional training models
• Long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, including health-related absences and a shift in career priorities for many workers

These challenges are particularly evident in sectors like packaging and labelling, where demand is high, timelines are tight, and accuracy is essential.

How Labelling Machinery Can Help?

As external suppliers struggle with reduced staffing levels, many businesses are finding that outsourcing their labelling processes is no longer sustainable. Lead times increase, costs rise, and flexibility decreases — all of which can affect your ability to meet customer demand.

By investing in your own labelling machinery, you gain control over this critical aspect of your production line. Modern equipment is faster, easier to use, and more cost-effective than ever before. Here’s how it can help you mitigate the impact of the skills shortage:

1. Modern Labelling Machines Are Intuitive and Easy to Use
In the past, operating a labelling machine required technical knowledge, patience, and a steep learning curve. But today’s advanced labelling systems are designed for ease of use. Many come equipped with touchscreen controls, step-by-step setup guides, pre-set templates, and plug-and-play functionality.

These improvements significantly reduce the training time required for staff to become confident operators. Even employees with no previous labelling experience can be trained quickly and efficiently, making it easier to assign labelling tasks without needing to recruit experienced operators from an increasingly limited talent pool.

This accessibility also enables greater workforce flexibility. When staff are absent or redeployed to other areas, others can step in and continue labelling with minimal disruption.

2. In-House Labelling Reduces Dependence on Outsourcing
While contract labelling services have long been a reliable option, the skills shortage is affecting these providers too. Many are experiencing longer lead times and higher costs due to limited staffing and rising overheads. In some cases, they may even be turning down new work due to lack of capacity.

By moving your labelling operations in-house, you not only avoid these bottlenecks but also gain greater control over your timelines, quality standards, and costs. You can produce labels on demand, manage urgent runs with confidence, and reduce the administrative burden of coordinating with third parties.

Crucially, this move also allows you to build internal capability. Rather than relying on outsourced expertise, you can train your own staff to manage, maintain, and operate your labelling systems — developing long-term skills within your business.

3. Automatic Labelling Reduces Pressure on Limited Staff
Many businesses that previously used manual labelling methods are now finding it increasingly difficult to maintain productivity, especially with fewer hands on deck. Manual labelling is time-consuming, repetitive, and highly dependent on staff availability. In times of staff shortages or high absenteeism, it can quickly become a bottleneck.

Automatic labelling machines streamline this process by applying labels consistently, accurately, and at speed. Once set up, they require minimal operator input, freeing your team to focus on more strategic or skilled areas of production.

In environments where every minute counts, automation not only improves output but also reduces errors, waste, and the need for constant rework — all of which contribute to better resource management.

4. Scalable Solutions for Growing Teams
Another benefit of labelling machinery is scalability. As your business grows and your production volume increases, your equipment can grow with you. Many labelling machines can be upgraded, expanded, or integrated into existing production lines to support higher output or more complex labelling requirements.

This scalability means you don’t need to invest in excessive staffing or infrastructure up front. Instead, you can make phased improvements as needed — ensuring you’re always equipped for current demand without overextending your resources.

Take Control of Your Labelling Process

The current skills shortage is a serious challenge — but it’s also an opportunity. Businesses that embrace smarter systems and labelling automation can not only overcome staffing pressures but also future-proof their operations, improve quality, and reduce costs.

At Atwell Labellers, we supply a wide range of automatic, semi-automatic, and custom-built labelling machines designed to meet the evolving needs of modern businesses. Whether you’re a small manufacturer or a large-scale producer, we can help you find the right solution to keep your production line running — no matter the staffing situation.

For more information on labelling machines and how they can help your company, speak with our experts at Atwell Labellers.