Adapting to change in the automotive industry
Looking back, it’s hard to believe I’ve spent three decades working with labels. But when you’re in a constantly evolving industry, time flies! I started my career in 1994 at Jackstädt as an application engineer, leading a team of laboratory technicians focused on material analysis, application development and technical complaint support. When Avery Dennison acquired Jackstädt in 2002, my role expanded into product integration and new product innovation.
By 2006, I had fully transitioned into automotive labeling. Since then, my role has expanded in line with the industry’s increasing focus on specialized materials and performance testing. Over the years, I’ve seen how quality requirements in the industry have become increasingly strict. With more controlled testing and higher expectations for durability, labels now need to endure harsher environments.
What keeps this work exciting is the fact that no two projects are the same. Automotive labels have to be carefully tailored to their specific application, considering not just exposure to fluids, heat and mechanical stress, but also the substrate they adhere to and the printing technique used. Some applications call for general durability, like resistance to abrasion and chemicals, while others demand more specialized features, such as flammability resistance, weathering performance or even electrical insulation for functional solutions. That’s why I approach every new project by digging deep into the details – because the right solution starts with truly understanding the application, specifications and customer needs.
Understanding automotive label specifications
Automotive label specifications have been around since the 1970s, developed by OEMs and tier suppliers to ensure traceability, safety and long-term durability. As vehicles have become more advanced, these specifications have had to keep up – incorporating new materials, performance standards and industry regulations.
A big part of my job is staying up to date with these evolving standards and making sure that both existing and newly developed labeling materials continue to meet them. Labels used in engine compartments, fuel systems, batteries and electronic components need to pass a wide range of performance tests. Some labels have to be flame-retardant, while others need electrical insulation properties or resistance to oil, fuel and extreme temperatures.
What makes things even more complex is that automotive specifications aren’t always as clear as they seem. While most documents outline 10 pages or more of test methods and performance requirements, there are times when the exact testing process is unclear or open to interpretation.
