As the fashion industry enters a new era of transparency and regulation, the role of labels is evolving rapidly.
For many years, labels were primarily used for identification, care instructions, and brand communication.
Today, they are becoming something much more important. They are turning into gateways to product data.
According to Sven Herold, VP Sales and Operations EU at Rudholm Group, this shift is already happening across the industry.
“Labels and packaging are becoming more strategic for apparel brands. They are no longer just for identification. They are now key tools to communicate product data, sustainability credentials, and compliance information.”
Regulation is a major driver behind this change. Initiatives linked to the EU Green Deal, including Digital Product Passports and stricter sustainability reporting, are increasing expectations around transparency and product documentation.
As a result, brands must rethink how product information is stored, managed, and shared.
From Physical Labels to Digital Connections
Traditionally, labels contained fixed information printed during production. Once the product left the factory, that information rarely changed.
Today, digital technologies are transforming that model.
Solutions such as QR codes, NFC, and RFID allow physical labels to connect directly to digital product records. This enables brands to link garments to verified information about materials, sourcing, and care instructions.
At Rudholm, this shift is supported through digital labelling solutions that connect products to structured data.
“With our Digital Product Passport system ShareLabel®, we connect physical labels to verified digital product information via QR codes. This allows brands to track products more accurately across their supply chains and update data when requirements change.”
A Strategic Asset for the Future
Together, these developments are transforming how brands think about labels. They are no longer just a production requirement. They are becoming part of the digital infrastructure that supports transparency, compliance, and trust.
As Sven Herold summarises: “For us at Rudholm, labels are not just a cost item. They are a strategic asset for compliance, transparency, and brand trust.”
Looking to prepare for Digital Product Passports? Talk to our team about connecting your product data.
