Yes. Because both the cup and the label are made from Polypropylene (PP), the entire product is 100% recyclable as a mono-material.

How durable is IML printing?

IML is the most durable decoration method available. The label is scratch-resistant, humidity-proof, and dishwasher safe for hundreds of cycles.

IML Cup Printing & Decoration | In-Mould Labelling UK

The IML Advantage

Why is In-Mould Labelling the gold standard for reusable cups? It offers durability and visual fidelity that post-mould printing cannot match.

Fusion Technology: The label becomes part of the cup wall

360° Branding: Seamless wrap-around coverage

Photo-Realistic Quality: High-resolution offset print

Mono-Material: Cup and label are both 100% PP (Recyclable)

Hygiene: Scratch-resistant and dishwasher safe

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What is In-Mould Labelling (IML)?

The Process: IML is an advanced manufacturing technique where decoration takes place during the moulding process, not after. A pre-printed polypropylene label is placed into the open mould cavity by a high-speed robot.

The Fusion: Molten plastic is injected into the mould behind the label. The heat from the plastic instantly melts the label substrate, fusing it permanently to the container wall. When the mould opens, the cup is fully decorated, cooled, and ready to use.

The Result: Unlike stickers or surface ink, an IML label cannot peel, scratch off, or fade. It is integral to the structure of the cup, making it the only viable option for long-term reusable festival cups.

What is In-Mould Labelling (IML)?

The Process: IML is an advanced manufacturing technique where decoration takes place during the moulding process, not after. A pre-printed polypropylene label is placed into the open mould cavity by a high-speed robot.

The Fusion: Molten plastic is injected into the mould behind the label. The heat from the plastic instantly melts the label substrate, fusing it permanently to the container wall. When the mould opens, the cup is fully decorated, cooled, and ready to use.

The Result: Unlike stickers or surface ink, an IML label cannot peel, scratch off, or fade. It is integral to the structure of the cup, making it the only viable option for long-term reusable festival cups.

Technical Specifications & Materials

As a manufacturer, we understand that material science matters. Our IML process is designed for circularity and performance.

Materials Used

We utilise Food-Grade Polypropylene (PP) for both the cup and the label. Because the label and the container are made from the same polymer family, they expand and contract at the same rates, preventing warping.

Crucially, this creates a Mono-Material Product. Unlike cups with paper stickers or mixed-plastic sleeves, our IML cups do not need to be separated before recycling. The entire unit can be ground down and re-granulated into new products.

IML vs. Single Colour Printing

We offer both methods, but they serve different needs.

Feature	In-Mould Labelling (IML)	Single Colour Print
Visuals	Photo-quality, Full Colour	Simple Logos (1-2 Colours)
Coverage	Full 360° Wrap (Top to Bottom)	Central Band Only
Durability	Permanent (Fused)	High (Surface Ink)
Ideal For	Festivals, Sponsors, Brands	Simple Bar Logos

Frequently Asked Questions

Is IML Dishwasher Safe?
Yes. Because the label is protected by the plastic layer and fused to the cup, it can withstand industrial dishwashing cycles without fading or peeling.

Can you print photos?
Absolutely. IML uses high-resolution offset printing, allowing for gradients, photographs, and complex artwork that single colour printing cannot achieve.