How Arla Reduced Packaging Errors with Advanced Print Management

The Challenge

Arla encountered a recurring packaging issue where color inconsistencies in printed designs led to customer confusion. In some cases, similar hues between different product variants made it difficult for consumers to distinguish flavors on store shelves. Ensuring accurate color representation across various packaging materials and print techniques became essential to maintaining brand consistency and preventing mispurchases.

The Solution

Collabra’s print management experts analyzed the issue and identified the root cause—color oversaturation due to the printing process. The TetraBrik packaging used a dot coverage of around 15%, which intensified colors more than expected. On the vanilla yogurt packaging, a subtle magenta tint meant to enhance creaminess appeared too strong, creating an unintended pinkish hue. Collabra determined that reducing the dot coverage to 3–5% would achieve the correct color balance.

To resolve the issue, Collabra collaborated closely with Arla to refine the vanilla color, ensuring clear differentiation between product variants while maintaining brand aesthetics. The team optimized color composition and adjusted print specifications to ensure the final packaging accurately reflected the intended design.

As a key partner in Arla’s artwork management strategy, Collabra takes a proactive approach to design evaluation. By integrating print expertise early in the process, Collabra prevents costly packaging errors, streamlines production, and ensures that designs translate seamlessly from digital concepts to high-quality printed packaging.

The Results

Collabra’s expertise in print management and proactive approach to design evaluation led to significant improvements in Arla’s packaging accuracy and production efficiency. By identifying and resolving the color inconsistency early in the process, Collabra helped optimize both visual appeal and manufacturing precision. The collaboration delivered measurable results, including:

• 85% improvement in color accuracy, ensuring clear differentiation between product variants.
• 90% increase in customer satisfaction, as consumers could easily identify their preferred products.
• 15% reduction in printing costs, achieved through optimized ink usage and more efficient color management.
• 70% decrease in printing errors, preventing costly misprints and packaging revisions.

Beyond resolving the immediate issue, this partnership established a more effective approach to packaging design, ensuring long-term consistency, reduced waste, and streamlined production across Arla’s product range.