Addressing Global Labour Shortages Through Optimised Daily Label Printing Operations
As the world economy has decelerated since 2021, job markets in OECD countries remain strained. Despite employment rates returning to pre-pandemic levels and unemployment rates hitting their lowest since the early 1970s, a stark labour shortage persists due to a lack of qualified talent, highlighting a supply-demand imbalance.1
The EURES reports that 27 EU member states, along with Norway and Switzerland, are struggling with labour shortages.2 Industry-specific studies, like those from the National Association of Manufacturers in the United States, reveal that up to 71.4% of manufacturers view recruiting and retaining skilled employees as a significant challenge.3
Optimise for Daily Label Printing Demands
In industries requiring labelling, from automotive to apparel, the demand for variable data label printing is escalating. This need is especially pronounced in sectors like logistics, food and beverage, and healthcare. Printers are pushing their limits to cater to this growing demand which, in turn, increases operational and maintenance efforts, further complicating the persistent issue of labour shortages.
In response to these challenges, solutions are being explored, including leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation to alleviate labour issues. However, these require significant investment and detailed ROI analysis, necessitating long-term strategies. Whereas enhancing daily operations provides a more immediate solution to labour shortages. For instance, equipping operators with better tools can significantly enhance their work efficiency and productivity.
TSC Auto ID Industrial Printers: The Optimal Solution for Daily Challenges
TSC Auto ID's new generation industrial printers, the MB241 and ML241P Series, support 8-inch O.D. label capacity, feature easy to use interface and offer various accessories. These enhancements significantly boost operational efficiency by meeting high-volume printing demands. Improved efficiency helps address labour shortages, allowing operators to focus on critical tasks, enhancing overall productivity and operational flow.
Choosing the Right Fit
The MB241 Series is ideal for demanding environments, particularly in warehouses, logistics, and food sectors, where labour shortages are prevalent. Equipped with optional accessories, the series can significantly improve work efficiency and effectively mitigate labour shortages.
- The durable all-metal print mechanism and the printer’s casing reduce maintenance and repair frequency, minimising the need for scarce and costly IT professionals.
- Equipped with the optional linerless kit, the MB241 Series offers an innovative linerless printing solution. Operators can print diverse label lengths on the same roll without the need to change label rolls and peel off the liner, thereby reducing liner waste and disposal efforts.
- Equipped with the optional internal rewinder kit, the MB241 Series prints and rewinds labels quickly. These rewound labels can then be fed into the labelling machine, automating the labelling process.
The ML241P Series is suitable for businesses that require efficient printing capabilities in environments with less demanding printing requirements, such as flight check-in counters, postal service counters, and medication labelling in pharmacies.
- The simple adjustments of printhead (TPH) pressure position and ribbon tension, along with the toolless removal and replacement of the TPH and platen roller, make it an excellent option for sectors with limited technical staff. This allows for quick and easy operation with minimal training.
- The wide-open 50 mm media handling design provides users with ample space for easy label roll changes, thereby expediting operations and reducing downtime.
Tackle Labour Shortages With TSC Auto ID’s Industrial Printers
There are numerous strategies to tackle global labour shortages, and optimising daily operations with the right tools is a practical and immediate solution. TSC Auto ID’s MB241 and ML241P Series industrial printers effectively respond to labour challenges by optimising daily activities. Choosing the right printer can help organisations navigate labour shortages with resilience and efficiency.
Interested in test-driving our new generation industrial printers? Contact your local sales representative for further consultation.
1 OECD News, OECD job markets remain tight though inflation is hitting real wages, https://www.oecd.org/employment/oecd-job-markets-remain-tight-though-inflation-is-hitting-real-wages.htm
2 EURES Research, Labour Shortages report, https://www.ela.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2023-03/eures-labour-shortages-report-2022.pdf
3 National Association of Manufacturers News, Manufacturer Optimism Still Low, https://nam.org/manufacturer-optimism-still-low-29853