The label printing industry in the US focuses on creating customized labels for various sectors, including food, beverages, healthcare, and commercial products. Companies range from small, niche manufacturers to large corporations, offering services like digital printing, flexography, and screen printing. Emerging trends point towards demand for sustainable materials and innovative printing technologies, such as digital label printing, which allow for shorter runs and rapid design changes. The rise of e-commerce further fuels the need for labels, highlighting the industry's adaptability and expanding market potential, driven by a growing emphasis on branding and consumer engagement.


This article features a notable collection of investors in the label printing industry, encompassing venture capital firms, private equity groups, and corporate investors. Headquartered primarily in major cities like New York and San Francisco, these investors vary in size, from boutique firms to significant corporations. Founded between 1982 and 2019, they demonstrate a commitment to funding label printing innovations, marked by their investments in 2024—showcasing an active interest in sectors critical for growth, involving 802 deals by Y Combinator alone.


Top 14 Label Printing Investors in the US


1. Advantage Capital


Advantage Capital is a venture capital firm based in New Orleans, Louisiana, founded in 1992. The firm specializes in providing equity and debt financing to small businesses, with a focus on supporting entrepreneurs in underserved communities. Their investment strategy includes flexible capital solutions aimed at helping businesses grow and thrive. Notably, Advantage Capital has been involved in several transactions within the label printing industry, including debt financing for ProLabel on multiple occasions in 2014 and 2015, as well as for Emprint Moran Printing, Inc. in 2019. Additionally, they have financed Direct Color Systems, which operates in the printing sector, further showcasing their engagement in the label printing and related industries.


2. CCL Metal Science

  • Website: cclind.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Clinton, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2019
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: ccl-metal-science

CCL Metal Science, a corporate investor based in Clinton, North Carolina, is a subsidiary of CCL Industries Inc., a leading packaging company founded in 2019. CCL Industries specializes in innovative packaging solutions across various markets, including Home & Personal Care, Food & Beverage, and Healthcare. With a workforce of approximately 26,000 employees and 213 production facilities worldwide, CCL provides high-quality labels, packaging, and security products. Notably, CCL has made strategic acquisitions in the label printing sector, including:1. **Label Art** - Acquired on January 22, 2016, this leading PS label manufacturer in Ireland focuses on the healthcare market, enhancing CCL's presence in this niche.2. **Faubel & Co. Nachfolger GmbH** - Acquired on July 31, 2023, for $185.9 million, this German pharmaceutical label business specializes in labels for clinical trials, further solidifying CCL's footprint in the healthcare labeling sector.3. **In-mould label business in Spain** - Acquired on July 6, 2023, this acquisition expands CCL's capabilities in the in-mould labeling space.4. **Pacman** - Acquired on May 13, 2024, this transaction continues CCL's trend of expanding its label manufacturing capabilities.These acquisitions reflect CCL's commitment to enhancing its label printing operations and its strategic focus on the healthcare market, making it a relevant player in the label printing industry.


3. Y Combinator

  • Website: ycombinator.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 802
  • LinkedIn: y-combinator

Y Combinator is a prominent startup accelerator and venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2005. It provides funding and mentorship to early-stage technology companies through a structured program that helps entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses. Y Combinator has successfully launched over 4,000 startups, making it a key player in the technology startup ecosystem. Among its investments, Y Combinator has backed companies like Underground Printing, which raised funds in a Series A round in March 2021, indicating a direct involvement in the label printing industry. Other notable investments include Kicksend, Reelables, Arylla, and Front Studio, showcasing a diverse portfolio that includes companies with potential relevance to the label printing sector.


4. 500 Global

  • Website: 500.co
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 98
  • LinkedIn: 500-startups

500 Global is a venture capital firm and startup accelerator based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2010. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage technology companies, providing funding, mentorship, and resources to help founders scale their businesses. Notably, 500 Global has made several investments in the label printing context, including Printivo, which raised funds in both 2017 and 2019. These transactions highlight their engagement in the label printing sector, alongside other investments such as Quadient Accounts Receivable by YayPay and Arka, showcasing their diverse portfolio while still maintaining a foothold in the printing industry.


5. Ennis, Inc.

  • Website: ennis.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Midlothian, Texas, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1909
  • Headcount: 5001-10000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: ennis-inc.

Ennis, Inc. is a corporate investor based in Midlothian, Texas, founded in 1909. The company specializes in manufacturing and supplying a wide range of printed business products, including forms, checks, promotional materials, and labels. With over 55 locations across the U.S., Ennis serves a vast network of distributors, providing high-quality printing solutions. In recent years, Ennis has made several strategic acquisitions to enhance its capabilities in the printing industry. Notable transactions include the acquisition of The Flesh Co. in 2019, which reported over $31 million in sales, and Printing Technologies Inc. in 2024, aimed at leveraging diverse product offerings. Additionally, the acquisition of EAGLE Graphics in 2023 and Trade Envelopes, Inc. in 2007 further demonstrates Ennis's commitment to expanding its footprint in the printing sector, particularly in envelope and label printing.


6. The Riverside Company


The Riverside Company is a private equity investment firm based in New York, specializing in providing flexible capital solutions and strategic guidance to smaller middle-market businesses across various industries. Founded in 1988, Riverside manages a diverse portfolio of over 140 companies globally. Notably, Riverside has been involved in several transactions relevant to the label printing industry, including the acquisition of Promotional Specialists in 2012, which focuses on promotional products and printing solutions. They also acquired the Rutland Group in 2013, a company known for its printing and labeling solutions. Additionally, Riverside's acquisition of Vitex Packaging Group in 1998 further emphasizes their commitment to the packaging and labeling sectors. More recently, they have engaged with The Vomela Companies and Siffron, both of which are involved in printing and packaging, indicating a continued interest in this space.


7. Northstar Capital

  • Website: northstarcapital.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1993
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: northstar-capital

Northstar Capital is a private equity investment management firm based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, founded in 1993. Specializing in junior capital investments and equity co-investments, Northstar focuses on lower middle market companies and provides tailored financing solutions to financial sponsors, business owners, and management teams. With nearly $2 billion raised since inception, Northstar has a diverse portfolio that includes significant transactions in the label printing sector. Notably, they were involved in the funding of Online Labels in July 2020 and KDV Label Co. Inc in June 2021, showcasing their engagement in the label printing industry. This involvement highlights their strategy of investing in various industries, including consumer goods, which encompasses label printing.


8. Brady Corporation

  • Website: bradyid.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1914
  • Headcount: 5001-10000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: brady-corporation

Brady Corporation is a corporate investor based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, specializing in safety and identification solutions. Founded in 1914, the company has grown to employ between 5,001 and 10,000 people and operates globally. Brady offers a wide range of products, including labels, signs, and safety devices, primarily serving businesses that require compliance with safety regulations. Notably, Brady has made several strategic acquisitions to bolster its presence in the label printing market. In 2005, they acquired Signs & Labels Ltd, enhancing their product offerings in the label sector. In 2009, they further strengthened their position by acquiring Stickolor Indústria e Comércio de Auto Adesivos, a Brazilian company that specializes in adhesive products, which is expected to enhance their screen printing capabilities. These acquisitions reflect Brady's commitment to expanding its market share in the label printing industry and its focus on providing comprehensive safety solutions.


9. Platinum Equity

  • Website: platinumequity.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Beverly Hills, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1995
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 20
  • LinkedIn: platinum-equity

Platinum Equity is a private equity firm based in Beverly Hills, California, founded in 1995. The firm specializes in mergers, acquisitions, and operations management, focusing on investing in established companies across various industries. With a portfolio of approximately 50 companies and managing over $48 billion in assets, Platinum Equity provides capital and operational expertise to enhance growth and profitability. Notably, Platinum Equity has made significant investments in the label printing sector, including the acquisition of Multi-Color Corporation for $2.5 billion in 2019, a leading provider of label solutions. Additionally, they acquired WS Packaging Group, a prominent player in the label printing industry, further solidifying their presence in this market. These transactions highlight Platinum Equity's commitment to the label printing industry while maintaining a diverse investment strategy.


10. Atlas Holdings LLC


Atlas Holdings LLC is a private equity firm founded in 2002, based in the United States. The firm specializes in building and managing a diversified group of manufacturing and distribution businesses across various sectors. They focus on transforming underperforming companies into high-performance organizations, serving customers in industries such as automotive, construction, and food processing. Notably, Atlas Holdings has made significant acquisitions in the label printing sector, including the acquisition of R.R. Donnelley & Sons Company, a major player in print and media solutions, for approximately $2.1 billion in enterprise value. Additionally, they acquired LSC Communications, which is also a leader in print and digital media solutions. These transactions highlight Atlas Holdings' commitment to the label printing industry and their strategy of enhancing operational performance in this space.


11. FJ Labs

  • Website: fjlabs.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 169
  • LinkedIn: fj-labs

FJ Labs is a venture capital firm based in New York, specializing in investing in marketplace and network effect businesses. Founded in 2015, the firm has made over 1,000 investments, with a notable focus on startups in various industries, including e-commerce and logistics. Among their relevant transactions, FJ Labs participated in the Series B funding of Packhelp, a custom and sustainable packaging marketplace, which raised €40M to develop new sustainable products and services. Additionally, they were involved in the Series A funding of Printify, a print-on-demand company that raised $45M to expand its marketplace globally. These investments highlight FJ Labs' engagement in the label printing and packaging sectors, showcasing their commitment to supporting innovative companies in this space.


12. Xerox

  • Website: xerox.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Norwalk, Connecticut, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2002
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: xerox

Xerox Corporation, founded in 2002 and based in Norwalk, Connecticut, is a leading technology company specializing in printing and document management solutions. With a workforce of over 10,000 employees, Xerox offers a diverse range of products, including printers, multifunction devices, and software solutions tailored for various industries such as education and healthcare. The company has made several strategic acquisitions to enhance its capabilities in the printing sector. Notably, in December 2024, Xerox acquired Lexmark for $1.53 billion, a company recognized for its printing technology, which could significantly bolster Xerox's position in the label printing market. Additionally, Xerox's acquisition of Irish Business Systems in 2010, a managed print services provider, further demonstrates its commitment to expanding its customer reach and enhancing its service offerings in the printing domain. These transactions indicate Xerox's active role in the printing industry, including label printing, making it a relevant investor in this space.


13. Sosv

  • Website: sosv.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1995
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 170
  • LinkedIn: sosv

SOSV is a venture capital firm founded in 1995, specializing in funding and supporting deep tech startups through its development programs. With a global reach, SOSV connects innovative companies with investors, providing venture capital investment and resources to help startups grow in various sectors, including health and climate technology. Notably, SOSV has invested in Scantrust, a company focused on supply chain transparency and product authentication, which are critical components of the label printing industry. SOSV participated in several funding rounds for Scantrust, including seed funding in 2015, Series A rounds in 2017, and Series B in 2021. These investments highlight SOSV's engagement with technologies that enhance the label printing sector, particularly in terms of security and traceability.


14. The Carlyle Group

  • Website: carlyle.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1987
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 25
  • LinkedIn: the-carlyle-group

The Carlyle Group Inc. is a prominent investment management firm founded in 1987, specializing in private equity, real assets, and private credit. With a global presence and a focus on delivering tailored investment solutions to institutional investors, Carlyle has built a reputation for driving long-term value. Among its notable transactions, Carlyle acquired Signode Industrial Group in 2014, a company that provides packaging solutions, which may encompass label printing services. Additionally, Carlyle's acquisition of Array Marketing in 2015, a provider of retail merchandising displays, further highlights its engagement in sectors that could relate to label printing. These transactions reflect Carlyle's strategic interest in industries that intersect with label printing, making it a relevant player in this space.



Label Printing Insights: Key Investors in the US


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Advantage CapitalNew Orleans, Louisiana, United States (USA)51-20019925
CCL Metal ScienceClinton, North Carolina, United States (USA)201-50020191
Y CombinatorSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)51-2002005802
500 GlobalSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)201-500201098
Ennis, Inc.Midlothian, Texas, United States (USA)5001-1000019091
The Riverside CompanyNew York, New York, United States (USA)201-500198812
Northstar CapitalMinneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)11-5019931
Brady CorporationMilwaukee, Wisconsin, United States (USA)5001-1000019141
Platinum EquityBeverly Hills, California, United States (USA)201-500199520
Atlas Holdings LLCUnited States (USA)11-5020023
FJ LabsNew York, New York, United States (USA)11-502015169
XeroxNorwalk, Connecticut, United States (USA)10001+20022
SosvUnited States (USA)51-2001995170
The Carlyle GroupWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)1001-5000198725


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