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The In-Mold Decorating Association (IMDA) has announced the honorees in the annual competition recognizing industry-leading applications in in-mold labeling (IML), in-mold decorating (IMD) and in-mold electronics (IME). Entries were judged based on overall design and complexity; integration of the in-mold element into the part or package, functionality, and innovation in the use of materials and processes.
This year, during the 20th anniversary of the incorporation of the IMDA, the Judges’ Choice Award was renamed to recognize former executive director and association founder Ronald B. Schultz. The Ronald B. Schultz Judges’ Choice Award is given to a competition entrant that uses in-mold technology to enhance the attention-grabbing effects of the decorated application.
The 2025 IMDA Awards Competition is sponsored by KURZ, InkWorks Printing, StackTeck, Innovia, Wipfli and Sussex IM.
The In-Mold Decorating Association (IMDA) is an organization that includes molders, printers, material suppliers, and equipment manufacturers that are committed to the development and growth of in-mold decorated products, technologies and markets. IMDA raises the level of awareness and acceptance of in-mold decorated durable products and in-mold labeled packaging by OEMs, brand owners and marketers, integrating the interests of the entire IML and IMD supply chain through its promotional and educational programs. For more information, visit www.imdassociation.com.
Ronald B. Schultz Judges’ Choice Award
Winner: AMSTEL Ice Bucket
Submitted by: Ren-Flex Packaging
Brand Owner: AMSTEL
Product Molder: DRV Plastics
Label Printer: Ren-Flex Packaging
Automation Partner: HP, Schober
When selecting the judges’ choice honoree, it’s often about finding the one thing the judges can’t stop staring at and this year, it’s the AMSTEL ice bucket from Ren-Flex Packaging. This unconventionally shaped container is designed for rough usage, washability and frequent handling, making IML the perfect decoration method. The label is digitally printed and laminated with a clear BOPP to avoid scratching during use. The join of the label incorporates the cut-out handle, making it difficult to keep in place when placing the label into the mold and during the molding process. This bucket stands out both in visual impact and durability.
Best Use of IML, Blow Mold – Package or Container
Winner: Roll-On Bottles
Submitted by: Ren-Flex Packaging
Brand Owner: Arthur Ford, Canway Packaging Solution
Product Molder: TEQAL
Label Printer: Ren-Flex Packaging
Label Substrate/Film Supplier: YUPO
Automation Partner: HP, Schober
This roll-on application was blow molded, with the front and back labels printed, diecut and molded together to ensure color consistency and to avoid curling and label movement. By introducing a label into the blow station of an injection blow molding machine, a few changes were needed. First, the mold design needed to accommodate the end of arm tooling and vacuum system for the labels, and then thermal management of the preform was required when blowing into the blow mold of an integrated cage. The integrated cage is the part of the bottle that holds the ball for the roll-on dispenser. In this case, the label insulates the blow mold station surface from the hot plastic of the preform being molded into it, performing a secondary function in addition to adding label durability.
Honorable mention: ROKO FLO
Submitted by: Biostadt India Limited
Brand Owner: Biostadt India Limited
Product Molder: Greif India Plastics Pvt. Ltd.
Label Printer: Coats & Pack
Label Substrate/Film Supplier: YUPO
Automation Partner: Technorobotic Machines Pvt. Ltd.
Receiving honorable mention, this project from Biostadt India Limited was recognized by the judges for the sheer difficulty in placing a small, intricate bird design label. The uneven area of application, depression, sharp edges, and small label size created all sorts of difficulties during production, which were overcome through multiple trials.
Best Use of In-Mold Labeling (IML) – Large Container
Winner: Ultrafresh
Submitted by: MCC Global IML
Brand Owner: Ultra Soap International
Product Molder: M&M Industries
Label Printer: MCC Global IML
Automation Partner: Beck
For over nine years, Ultra Soap had been hand-applying two pressure-sensitive labels to every 5-gallon bucket they sold—a process that was costly, labor-intensive and created unnecessary material waste. This IML solution streamlines production while maintaining the product’s branding, rich colors, and metallic foil. It also leverages IML’s expanded billboard space—adding value for product promotion.
Honorable mention: Rebel IMD Canisters
Submitted by: Polyfab
Brand Owner: Rebel Converting
Product Molder: Polyfab
Label Printer: InkWorks Printing
Previously, these canisters had traditional labels applied as a secondary operation, which resulted in a more inconsistent process. The labels were subject to tearing or deterioration from the cleaning wipe solution, which often led to rework at the production site – or destroyed branding during use. The solution with IMD simplified assembly, reduced production costs, and scrap, and enhanced the functionality and appearance of the product, while also increasing its durability.
Best Use of In-Mold Labeling (IML) – Small Container
Winner: Durable Cold Foil IML
Submitted by: iPB Printing
Product Molder: Enpres
Label Printer: iPB Printing
This reusable drinking cup features an in-mold label with cold foil elements for a high-impact, metallic visual effect, while a laminate coating adds scratch resistance and durability. The integration of cold foil into an IML label posed significant technical challenges, with careful handling required during printing to prevent cracking and delamination, especially on curved surfaces. The design provides a collectible look and feel, making it suitable for high-end events for people to keep and reuse.
Sustainable Use of In-Mold Processes
Winner: 16oz Run It BackTM Cup
Submitted by: Churchill Container
Brand Owner: Churchill Container
Product Molder: Churchill Container
Label Printer: Vibrant Graphics
Automation Partner: Brink
In the world of sports, sustainability is a rapidly growing point of focus, and teams are under immense pressure to use their high public profile to promote sustainable processes. In this cup, the resin used is 100% post-consumer recycled PP. The digitally printed IML label is laminated with a soft-touch matte film that’s abrasion resistant and survives hundreds of dishwashes, making it ideal for recycle and reuse. The variable codes add traceability for reuse/return systems and self-serve refilling stations at venues.
Honorable Mention: RECYPEEL IML
Submitted by: iPB Printing
Brand Owner: ALPLA
Product Molder: Intopack
Label Printer: iPB Printing
Automation Partner: Engel
RECYPEEL supports sustainability goals by enabling the separation of printed and non-printed plastics during the recycling process. The printed layer is designed to detach from the base substrate during shredding and washing. This results in a higher purity of recovered plastic, which can then be reused. By leveraging IML technology in a material-separating way, this product introduces an elegant solution to a long-standing recycling problem.
Honorable Mention: AllTrail E-Bike Battery Cover (Moab Rock)
Submitted by: Polisport
Brand Owner: Accell Group, Haibike
Product Molder: Polisport
Label Printer: Polisport
Automation Partner: Polinter
This e-bike battery cover leans into sustainable use through manufacturing process efficiency. The one-shot manufacturing process eliminates post-processing to reduce production costs, logistics and environmental impact. The thermoplastic cover achieves a lightweight, perfect color match with the carbon fiber frame, delivering a premium appearance without the need for painting. Using IMD produces a glossy, scratch resistant surface that is ideal for the rough world of mountain biking.
Sustainable Use of In-Mold Processes, Material Improvement
Winner: SelfEco Stadium Cup
Submitted by: MCC Global IML
Brand Owner: SelfEco
Product Molder: Vistatek
Label Printer: MCC Global IML
The Self-Eco stadium cup combines IML technology with compostable plastic and a PLA resin label. The result is a visually appealing, durable cup that supports circular economy goals without compromising on design or performance. A key challenge was finding a partner who could work with PLA as a mono-material. Both the cup and label had to be industrially compostable, so even inks and coatings were carefully selected. The materials needed to bond well during production and meet food safety standards. The result was an innovative integration of a bio-based label with an IML process.
Honorable Mention: Rebel IMD Canisters with 100% Recyclable PE Labels
Submitted by: Polyfab
Brand Owner: Rebel Converting
Product Molder: Polyfab
Label Printer: InkWorks Printing
Material innovation is the name of the game with a digital label structure that is 100% recyclable in PE material. The IML film is 40% PCR content from PE film, and the top lamination can be either an HDPE or LDPE lamination, based upon the injection-molded resin type. The labels produced with a 40% PCR reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills, with a minimal impact on cost differentiation.
Best Use in a Durable Goods Application of a Prototype Product or In-House Promotion
Winner: Pure Coat
Submitted by: Nissha Mobility Group
Label Printer: Nissha
Label Substrate/Film Supplier: Nissha
This application showcases the ability to create a design with depth through an in-mold coating when combined with film decoration. Since PUR itself is a resin with very low viscosity, it’s difficult to establish moldability using it. The use of this in-mold coating allows a high reproducibility for a stunning visual effect that the judges recognized in this year’s competition.
Honorable Mention: Lumistyle for Inner Lens
Submitted by: Nissha
Brand Owner: Nissha
Product Molder: Nissha
Label Printer: Nissha
Label Substrate/Film Supplier: Nissha
Complex lighting designs are combined with cost-competitive printing technology in this entry from Nissha. With existing decorating methods, it was difficult to adjust the transmittance, but this inner lens can change the transmittance according to customer requirements, creating precise patterns. In addition, this application can pass rigorous testing specifications that are particular to the automotive industry, including UV weathering, humidity, heat, chemical resistance and others.
Best Use in a Packaging Application of a Prototype Product or In-House Promotion
Winner: Effervescent Tube
Submitted by: Ajanta Print Arts
Brand Owner: Ajanta Print Arts
Product Molder: Madhavas Plastoprint
Label Printer: Ajanta Print Arts
Automation Partner: Wetec
These tubes showcase a creative fusion of functional packaging and striking brand presentation. Using IML allowed Ajanta to combine metallic and matte finishes on a curved, narrow format. The eye-catching design, vivid colors, and premium feel elevated the shelf appeal in a highly competitive market. These tubes feature a seamless 360-degree wraparound design, while also enhancing chemical, moisture and scratch resistance to protect the artwork from transport and daily use.
Best Use of In-Mold Decorating (IMD) – High Complexity
Winner: Backlit Thin-Film Insert-Molded Applique for the 2025 Ford Explorer
Submitted by: Covestro LLC, Ford, OPmobility, Advanced Decorative Systems
Brand Owner: Ford
Product Molder: OPmobility
Label Printer: Advanced Decorative Systems
Label Substrate/Film Supplier: Covestro LLC
This entry showcases film insert molded and backlit applique developed specifically for the 2025 Ford Explorer. The applique integrates decorative graphics and functional lighting in a single component that is thin and lightweight, enabling installation in a highly restricted interior packaging space. IMD offered the ideal combination of aesthetic freedom component consolidation and environmental durability, protecting the graphics from abrasion and UV and chemical exposure, while also reducing bulk and weight. Backlighting was embedded directly behind the IMD layer, eliminating the need for separate light guides or bezels. The custom diffuser pattern within the printed film layers ensures even illumination to avoid hot spots or light bleed.
Honorable Mention: E-Bike Battery Cover (AllTrail Blue)
Submitted by: Polisport
Brand Owner: Accell Group, Haibike
Product Molder: Polisport
Label Printer: Polisport
Automation Partner: Polinter
This battery cover is a standout example of innovation in product integration, incorporating a pre-formed decorative film that fully wraps the component, enabling full decoration coverage with durable, high-quality graphics. This includes safety markings and brand logos, eliminating the need for stickers or separate labeling steps. IMD supports forming over the curved, complex surface, allowing full coverage of the part, including edges and transitions, without distortion or misalignment. The result is a cleaner aesthetic, improved durability and reduced production complexity.
Innovative Use in an In-Mold Decorated Product or Part
Winner: Dishwasher User Interface
Submitted by: Nissha Eimo Technologies
Brand Owner: GE Appliances
Product Molder: Nissha Eimo Technologies
Label Printer: Nissha
Label Substrate/Film Supplier: Nissha
This GE Profile brand entry has an antimicrobial user surface, which is unique in the appliance industry. The blend of soft-matte finish for reduced fingerprints, hard coat for chemical and scratch resistance, and the antimicrobial touch surface is a winning combination. The team at Nissha Eimo and GE Appliances overcame challenges in the small footprint for the electronics and the addition of the hard coat and antimicrobial coat to create a beautiful and functional part.
Best Use of In-Mold Decorating (IMD) - Design
Winner: Air Conditioner Hanging Panel – Flowing Years
Submitted by: Wuhan Huagong Image Technology Development Co., Ltd.
Brand Owner: Wuhan Huagong Image Technology Development Co., Ltd.
Label Printer: Shanghai Huagong Aimar New Material Co., Ltd.
Label Substrate/Film Supplier: Shanghai Huagong Aimar New Material Co., Ltd.
Automation Partner: Shanghai Huagong Aimar New Material Co., Ltd.
The design scheme for this air conditioner panel combines holographic laser lithography with in-mold technology for a beautiful visual impact. The refraction of light at different angles presents depth of field and flow on the flat surface of the air conditioner, breaking away from the traditional surface decoration of home appliances. The large size of this panel presented production challenges.
Innovative Use in an In-Mold Labeled Package or Container
Winner: Sarasa Olives
Submitted by: MCC Global IML
Brand Owner: Sarasa
Product Molder: ITC
Label Printer: MCC Global IML
This packaging range includes four pail sizes—all using transparent O2 barrier IML for extended freshness and strong shelf appeal. The use of retort-capable printing ensures high heat resistance during processing, offering a durable solution for the retail and food service markets without compromising its premium packaging appearance for the Sarasa Olives brand.
