Take Your Brand to New Levels with In-Mold Labeling

March 24, 2025


In today’s competitive marketplace, brand recognition is everything. When a consumer interacts with your product, what do they see first? What stays with them after the interaction ends? A brand —and specifically a logo—plays a crucial role in the lasting impression.

The Power of Visual Identity

Think about it: in a fraction of a second, you can probably identify iconic logos without any text—the swoosh, the golden arches, or an apple with a bite taken out. These simple graphics carry enormous brand value because they've been used consistently with consumers.

This is where in-mold labeling (IML) technology comes into play. IML can offer a game-changing approach to brand visualization, while also delivering on your product’s needs for durability and longevity.

emblem branding sanwa

What Makes In-Mold Labeling Superior?

Drawing from our extensive experience in the automotive and appliance industries, our teams have perfected the art and science of in-mold labeling and similar capabilities — fine expression silk printing, sputtering, dead front display and more. Unlike traditional label printing methods that use adhesives and sit on the surface, IML becomes an integral part of the product during the manufacturing process.

This integration offers several distinct advantages:

Durability

  • Waterproof and scratch-resistant performance as the inks sit behind a protective film layer

  • Perfect for high-touch areas where traditional labels would quickly deteriorate

  • Long-lasting brand presence that maintains its premium look throughout the product lifecycle

Dimensional Freedom

Your logo doesn't have to be flat or one-dimensional. With IML technology, we can create:

  • Deep bends and curves that wrap around surfaces

  • Multi-angle visibility that showcases your brand from different perspectives

  • Custom shapes that align with your product design— such as octagonal logos for octagonal products, for example

Color Precision and Consistency

Color matching isn't just about aesthetics—it's about authenticity. Our precise color-matching capabilities ensure that your branded elements are consistent across all products.

Versatility for Every Branding Need

Our technology can bring your team’s big, innovative design dreams to life. Think outside of flat colors, finishes, and shapes — even textures and languages!

Flexibility in Design

  • Multi-market capabilities with language variations

  • Easy updates for refreshes, color changes, or text modifications

  • Special editions or limited releases

Surface Options

  • Fine expression screen printing for unique first-surface textures

  • Simulation of premium materials like wood grain, leather, herringbone, or stone

  • Dead-front printing for hidden-until-lit designs that create memorable interactions

appliance branding sanwa
appliance brand in mold labeling sanwa

Real-World Applications from Industry Leaders

We’ve created premium branding solutions for leading manufacturers in the automotive, appliance, medical and aviation industries. For example, Toyota and Lexus use custom emblems made with molding and sputtering techniques. Subaru, Whirlpool and Hino use emblems created with advanced potting technology. In the home, you’ll find that Kenmore and Maytag showcase their logos in ways that can withstand daily use.

auto emblem branding

Solutions for Various Budgets

We produce superior products for a range of budgets and quantities. Below are a few options that will affect the cost of your branded part:

Entry-Level Options

  • Basic one or two-color printed designs

  • Silk or pad printing processes maintain quality while controlling costs

Premium Presentations

  • Advanced potting techniques

  • Fine expression silk printing

  • PVD or sputtering for metallic finishes and luxury appearances

In some instances, the same injection mold can be repurposed for different finish levels, allowing your brand to maintain consistent recognition while varying the final product based on applications or price points. For instance, a mold designed for paint can be reused for sputtering or PVD to create a shiny, metallic edition of a product.

toyota branding in mold labeling

Start Elevating Your Brand Today

Whether you’re looking to produce parts for automotive interiors, home appliances, or other industries, we can offer unparalleled opportunities to communicate quality and reinforce brand identity.

Your brand is your most valuable asset, and it deserves the best presentation available.

Contact us today to explore how our in-mold labeling capabilities can transform your brand presentation. We can tell you what’s possible with your idea, and give recommendations based on 45+ years of manufacturing experience. Our team is ready to discuss your vision and offer a custom solution that takes your brand to new heights.