Why We’re Called “Label Engineers” — And What Makes Us Different
If you’ve ever tried to turn a great product into great packaging, you know labels aren’t just stickers. They’re tiny, high-performing systems that have to look sharp, stick perfectly, survive shipping, moisture, and handling, and—ideally—sell. That’s exactly why Alpine Packaging calls our team “label engineers.” We approach every project like an engineered solution: research first, then design, then production to spec.
Here’s what’s unique about Alpine—and why the “engineer” mindset matters.
We’re a true full-service shop, from research to print
Many printers start at art files and stop at ink on paper. Our process begins earlier. Alpine’s capabilities are built around research and design plus high-quality printing. Our team evaluates the right face stock, adhesive, and ink system for your actual use environment before we ever go to press.
That “soup to nuts” expertise is why we use the term label engineers. It reflects that we aren’t just pressing “print”—we’re specifying materials, testing for conditions (cold, wet, oily, or high-friction), and designing for legibility, barcoding, and application methods so your label performs in the real world.
Depth of capabilities (digital + flexo), with in-house speed
Alpine runs both digital and flexographic presses, so we can match the method to your run size and quality needs—variable data and fast turns on digital; sharp, economical output for larger runs on flexo.
Behind the scenes, we plate in-house using a dry thermal process. That lets us produce high-quality plates quickly (“just in time”) while eliminating solvents and aqueous washout—faster for you, and cleaner for the environment.
And when you need a specific shape? We maintain over 1,800 in-house dies which can dramatically simplify quoting and accelerate schedules.
Flexible packaging expertise that’s accessible to SMBs
Labels are just one part of your shelf presence. We also print flexible packaging (like bottle wraps and cookie wraps) using narrow-web processes that help make custom wraps more affordable for small and mid-size manufacturers. That’s a practical extension of our “engineer” approach: choose the right structure, then print it beautifully.
“Truly laminated” durability when it counts
For applications that take a beating—think beverage, outdoor, or high-touch products—Alpine offers labels that are truly laminated (a film bonded to the face stock) rather than just top-coated with varnish. The difference shows up in scuff resistance, moisture protection, and long-term clarity. If you want your labels to ‘pop’, rely on our experience to choose the right type of label finishing.
A sustainability program with real practices, not buzzwords
Engineering includes stewardship. Alpine uses water-based, solvent-free inks, energy-efficient lighting, and a chemical-free digital plate workflow. We also recycle deleted plates, polymer scrap, pallets, drums, and more—concrete steps we’ve documented for years.
Women-owned, family-run, and rooted in the community
Alpine was founded in 1972 and remains a third-generation, women-owned and operated company. Today, Jan Lehigh and her two sons, Chase and Chad, run the business, having worked across the shop floor and in management—one reason our culture prizes hands-on expertise and accountability.
Built to deliver: on time, on spec, on budget
What “label engineering” looks like in practice
When we say our people are label engineers, we mean they:
Specify materials by environment. We research which face stock and adhesive will perform best in your conditions—refrigeration, condensation, curved or squeezable containers, rough corrugate, you name it.
Design for function and compliance. Need variable barcodes, nutrition panels, or small-type legal copy that actually prints legibly? We select the print method and finishing to ensure clarity and durability.
Prototype the right construction. From laminated labels to special finishes, we’ll recommend constructions that match the abrasion, moisture, and chemical exposure your product faces.
Optimize for manufacturability. In-house platemaking, deep die inventory, and both digital and flexo options help us hit tight timelines without compromising quality.
Consider the full packaging system. If your brand expands into wraps or other flexible formats, we keep the engineering mindset consistent so print, materials, and application equipment all play nicely together.
The bottom line
What makes Alpine Packaging unique isn’t just the mix of labels and flexible packaging—it’s the way we approach them. Our label engineers treat every project like an engineered product: start with use-case research, design for performance and printability, manufacture with the right method, and deliver reliably. If that’s the level of rigor you want for your brand, we’re ready to help.
Have a project in mind? Share your container type, environment (cold, wet, outdoor, etc.), quantities, and timeline. Our label engineers will spec the right materials and print path to get you on shelf—on time, on spec, and on budget