AU2021221512A1

AU2021221512A1 - Removable or Repositionable Self-Adhesive Label or Sign and Methods

Info

Publication number: AU2021221512A1
Application number: AU2021221512A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Trevor Coon; Joby Graves; Jeffrey Morris
Original assignee: Qlm Label Makers Pty Ltd
Current assignee: Qlm Label Makers Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2021-07-18
Filing date: 2021-08-24
Publication date: 2023-02-02

Abstract

A removable/repositionable self-adhesive printable label assembly (herein a "label 5 assembly") 1 for attachment to a surface such as a shelf or shelving, the label assembly 1 consisting of a top sheet assembly 2 laminated to a bottom sheet assembly 4. The top sheet assembly 2 consists of the following joined or connected components in order of occurrence from top to bottom, including, a first release coating layer 12, at least one top sheet 14, a first primer coating layer 16, a first adhesive coating layer 18. The bottom sheet assembly 4 10 consists of in order of occurrence from top to the bottom, a second release coating layer 20, a second adhesive coating layer 22, a second primer coating layer 24, and at least one bottom sheet 26 with a third release coating layer 28 on an underside 42 of the bottom sheet 26. The first release coating layer 12 or top sheet 14 is printable and the laminating serves to join or adhere the first adhesive coating layer 18 of the top sheet assembly 2 to the second release 15 coating layer 20 and/or second adhesive coating layer 22 of the bottom sheet assembly 4. The construction and configuration of the label assembly 1 enables at least part of the bottom sheet assembly 4 to be separable from the top sheet assembly 2 or vice versa, without removing adhesive 18 from the top sheet assembly 2, wherein top sheet 14 is formed of substantially the same material as the bottom sheet 26, thereby reducing potential curling, 20 and facilitating recycling. A method of assembly of the label assembly 1 for attaching a shelf talker to a surface is also included. 4 <- Shel Edge Label > [6 ed Adh asive > ed Adh asive-> Die cut back sheet Die cut back sheet [8 Perforated both layers Perforated both layers Perforated both sheets Perforated both sheets Front Rear Front Rear FIGURE 3 FIGURE 4 FIGURE 7 FIGURE 8 4 FOLD INTO DATA STRIP 46 Die cut back sheet 48 Perforated both layers Perforated both layers Front Rear FIGURE 5 FIGURE 6

Description

4 <- Shel Edge Label >

[6 ed Adh asive > ed Adh asive->

Die cut back sheet Die cut back sheet

[8 Perforated both layers Perforated both layers Perforated both sheets Perforated both sheets

Front Rear Front Rear

FIGURE 3 FIGURE 4 FIGURE 7 FIGURE 8

4 FOLD INTO DATA STRIP

46 Die cut back sheet

48 Perforated both layers Perforated both layers

Front Rear

FIGURE 5 FIGURE 6

Removable or Repositionable Self Adhesive Label or Sign and Methods

The present invention relates to a removable and repositionable self-adhesive label for use on any surface, and to methods of manufacture. The invention is directed particularly, but not solely, towards a removable/repositionable self-adhesive printable label or sign for application to a substrate like, for example, shelves or facings.

Background of the Invention Shelf talkers are the "voice" of a product and are one type of a label or small sign that are attached to a shelf facing or a support structure close to a product in a retail outlet, such as a supermarket, to attract a customer's attention to the product. These signs usually have product information such as price specials, product name and/or product code information printed on paper or card. These signs can be readily fixed to an edge of a shelf or to/on a label support member comprising a plastic data strip, clip, magnet or be folded to insert a portion of the shelf talker into the plastic data strip or protruding cantilever member that extends outwardly therefrom.

Shelf talkers are very useful to customers to enable them to visually locate specific products, read the cost of those products and note any specials.

There are two main options or types of shelf talkers ie. non-adhesive ("clip-on) and self adhesive shelf talkers. Shelf talkers were historically non-adhesive because there were many practical problems with self-adhesive shelf talkers. However, since then, in Australia the major supermarket chains are now using self-adhesive shelf talkers, and have overcome the earlier problems related to self-adhesive shelf talkers.

Non-adhesive shelf talkers comprise a paper sheet printed with information on one side. The printed sheet is then perforated. Each shelf talker is separated by perforations which are required to be torn. The shelf talker is then attached to a shelf using a plastic clip.

In contrast, existing self-adhesive shelf talkers consist of a laminate as a top sheet assembly comprising a top sheet (can also be called a front sheet or face sheet, which can also be, for example, paper with a plastic layer) adhesively attached to a removable bottom sheet as part of a bottom sheet assembly (backing sheet, liner or carrier sheet or release liner which can also be paper with a plastic layer).

The top sheet of a self-adhesive shelf talker assembly has printed information in spaced locations on the front face and adhesive on the rear face. The entire shelf talker assembly is perforated into a number of shelf talkers.

The top sheet assembly is attached to the bottom sheet assembly, so that it can be printed on a printer. The bottom sheet assembly conceals the adhesive. To enable the shelf talker to be applied to a shelf facing, the bottom sheet assembly has to be die cut to allow removal of a section of the bottom sheet to expose an area of adhesive.

Conventional self-adhesive materials comprise a laminate structure including a top sheet assembly, adhesive and a bottom sheet assembly. Typically, the top sheet and bottom sheet are formed of distinctly different materials, which tend to absorb humidity at different rates when used in chillers, freezers or in areas of high humidity. This can cause the applied shelf talkers to curl, rendering their appearance unacceptable to retailers. Attempts have been made to address this issue by using a product, in which both the top and bottom sheets are paper that is reinforced with a plastic lamination, which makes this solution more expensive.

Shelf talkers made using reinforced paper materials are stronger and therefore require more effort to separate each shelf talker from the sheet when tearing along the perforations. This also makes the shelf talker material not easily recyclable.

Self-adhesive materials are usually made with permanent or removable adhesives. Permanent adhesives are unsuitable for a shelf talker application because they leave a pronounced residue of paper and adhesive on the shelf facing ifwhen they are removed. Removable adhesives are easier to remove and will leave less residue but cannot be consistently removed without leaving some residue as adhesives can degrade over time, resulting in losing their releasing ability meaning paper/adhesive residue may get left behind on the shelf facing. This waste can look very unsightly and needs to be cleaned ofl; further increasing maintenance costs.

Existing shelf talker products and methods each present one or more problems; including being labour intensive or time consuming, while not necessarily producing the best looking display for customers. Some of these options might initially provide a low cost to manufacture, but later incur high labour costs to separate (top sheet from bottom sheet) and attach to shelves and subsequently remove.

In this specification unless the contrary is expressly stated, where a document, act or item of knowledge is referred to or discussed, this reference or discussion is not an admission that the document, act or item of knowledge or any combination thereof was at the priority date, publicly available, known to the public, part of common general knowledge; or known to be relevant to an attempt to solve any problem with which this specification is concerned.

Object of the Invention It is an object of the invention to provide an improved removable/repositionable self adhesive label or small sign or an improved printable repositionable label and method of manufacture or assembly, that ameliorates some of the disadvantages and limitations of the known art or at least provide the public with a useful choice.

Summary of the Invention Accordingly in one aspect the invention includes a removable/repositionable self-adhesive printable label assembly (herein a "label assembly") 1 for removable attachment to a surface such as a shelf or shelving, the label assembly 1 consisting of a top sheet assembly 2 laminated to a bottom sheet assembly 4 wherein, the top sheet assembly 2 consists of the following joined or connected components, in order of occurrence from top to bottom, a first release coating layer 12, at least one top sheet 14, a first primer coating layer 16, a first adhesive coating layer 18, and the bottom sheet assembly 4 consists of in order of occurrence from top to the bottom, a second release coating layer 20, a second adhesive coating layer 22, a second primer coating layer 24, and at least one bottom sheet 26 with a third release coating layer 28 on an underside 42 of the bottom sheet 26, wherein the first release coating layer 12 or top sheet 14 is printable and thelaminating serves to join or adhere the first adhesive coating layer 18 of the top sheet assembly 2 to the second release coating layer 20 and/or second adhesive coating layer 22 of the bottom sheet assembly 4, wherein the construction and configuration of the assembly 1 enables at least part of the bottom sheet assembly 4 to be separable from the top sheet assembly 2 or vice versa, without removing adhesive 18 from the top sheet assembly 2, wherein top sheet 14 is formed of substantially the same material as the bottom sheet 26.

Preferably the label assembly is constructed and configured to thereby reduce potential curling and to facilitate recycling of the used product.

Preferably the first release coating layer 12 or top sheet 14 is printed by static printing whereby the printing includes flexographic printing after laminating the top sheet assembly to the bottom sheet assembly and before perforating back cutting and edge trimming.

Preferably the first release coating layer 12 or top sheet 14 is printed by variable printing (after perforating, back cutting, trimming and sheeting) by applying a printed image 10 to the release coating 12 or top sheet 14.

Preferably the assembly 1 is perforated to enable separation into individual shelf talker assemblies on each sheet.

Preferably the bottom sheet assembly 4 of the perforated assembly 1 is selectively back-slit.

Preferably the top sheet 14 is substantially the same material as the bottom sheet 26.

Preferably, the top sheet 14 is a paper layer of a weight of60-100 GSM and serves to carry the printed images 10 on one side or face 30, and the first adhesive coating layer 18 by which it is attachable to a selected surface (e.g. shelf facings) on the other side 32.

Alternatively top sheet 14 and bottom sheet 26 includes a filmic top sheet and filmic bottom sheet.

Preferably the release coating 12, 20, 28 is a coating that is designed to reduce the surface energy resulting in lower peel forces of adjacent pressure sensitive adhesive coatings 18, 22. Preferably the primer coating 16, 24 is a coating that increases the anchorage of the adhesive layer to top sheet or bottom sheet.

Preferably, the first release coating layer 12 functions to enable the top sheet 14 to be unwound off the parent roll, which is made as a liner-less material, without breaking or tearing the top sheet 14.

Preferably the first release coating layer 12 is continuously applied as a layer.

Preferably, the first primer coating layer 16 is required to hold the first adhesive coating layer 18 where the adhesive coating layer 18 is required and functions to provide a base for the adhesive layer 18 to a paper layer of the top sheet 14, without the first adhesive coating layer 18 actually absorbing in that paper layer of top sheet 14.

Preferably, the first adhesive coating layer 18 is at least 5 GSM coated ultra removable/repositionable microsphere pressure sensitive adhesive which is designed to be removable from the surface e.g. shelf facing without leaving any residue thereon.

Preferably the first adhesive coating layer is a coarse dispersed acrylate.

Preferably after a portion of the bottom sheet assembly 4 is removed from the label assembly 1, the first adhesive coating layer 18 is exposed ready for adhering to any surface such as a shelf data strip or shelf, whereby the exposed adhesive 18 may be surrounded on any or all sides by a portion(s) of bottom sheet assembly 4, thereby comprising top sheet assembly 2 attached to bottom sheet assembly 4.

Preferably the exposed adhesive 18 of the top sheet assembly 2 can extend such as to allow the label assembly 1 to be folded part way through the exposed adhesive to allow the left hand portion or upper portion to be folded over and behind the exposed adhesive portion 18 and part of the lower portion, to then allow the label assembly 1 to be placed behind and supported by a shelf edge data strip combined with support by the exposed adhesive 18 adhered to the outside of the shelf data strip and allow a portion to hang down to removably cover the shelf or data strip.

Preferably, the second release coating layer 20 is applied on a printing press to enable the removal of a section of the bottom sheet assembly 4 for the purpose of exposing a strip of adhesive with which the talker will be attached to the shelf

Preferably, the second adhesive coating layer 22 is a 3 to 6 GSM ultra-removable microsphere pressure sensitive adhesive and is required to hold the top sheet 14 to the bottom sheet 26 when the shelf talker assembly 1 is printed (e.g. by a flexographic or laser printer) and it also strengthens the construction of the shelf talker assembly 1 to enhance durability and minimise potential curl while in use on a support e.g. shelf

Preferably the first adhesive coating layer 18 located underneath the top sheet 14 is designed to adhere the label assembly 1 to the shelf whereas the corresponding pattern of second release coating layer 20 on top of the bottom sheet 26 is so that a section of the bottom sheet 26 can be removed to expose a strip (but not remove any) of the first adhesive coating layer 18.

Preferably the second primer coating layer 24 functions to provide a base for the second adhesive layer 22 and enables effective anchorage of the adhesive layer 22 to the bottom sheet 26 without absorbing into the paper of the bottom sheet 26.

Preferably, the bottom sheet 26 is a paper layer of a weight of 60-100 GSM and functions to provide a base to the top sheet assembly 2 and serves to prevent the adhesive 18 from under the top sheet 14 from contacting any components in a printer (e.g. laser printer) and the bottom sheet 26 carries the shelf talker assemblies 1 through a printing process.

Preferably the third release coating 28 enables the bottom sheet 26 to unwind off the parent roll without paper of the bottom sheet 26 breaking or tearing.

Preferably the first and second adhesive coating layers 18, 22 have coating weights that have been optimised to strike the right balance between staying on the shelf facing for the intended time period without leaving a residue when removed, and holding the top sheet 14 and the bottom sheet 26 together while being printed 10 (e.g. by laser printer), and for the duration of time that the label assembly 1 is attached to shelf facings in store.

Preferably the first and second adhesive coating layers 18, 22 utilize a fully-coated ultra removable or repositionable microsphere pressure sensitive adhesive which minimises the risk of leaving adhesive residue when removing from the shelf facing as well as improving cleanliness wherein the adhesive is only exposed where the label assembly 1 comes into contact with the shelf facings.

Preferably the label assembly 1, consists of in order, the following components: - First release coating layer 12 - Top sheet 14 - First primer coating layer16

- First adhesive coating layer 18 - Release coating 20 - Adhesive coating 22

- Second primer 24 - Bottom sheet 26

- Release coating 28

In another aspect, the invention consists in a method of assembly or manufacture of a label assembly 1 by carrying out the following steps of a) Top sheet 14 is primed with primer coating 16, release coated with release coating 12 and adhesive coated with adhesive coating 18 by a paper mill to form a first web or roll as a top sheet assembly 2; b) Separately bottom sheet 26 is primed with primer coating 24, release coated with release coating 28 and adhesive coated with adhesive coating 22 by the paper mill to form a second web or roll as a bottom sheet assembly 4 for later laminating to the top sheet assembly 2, c) On a specially modified label press, apply release coating 20 to bottom sheet 26 primed with primer coating 24, release coated with release coating 28 and adhesive coated with adhesive coating 22 by the paper mill to form the bottom sheet assembly 4 as a second web or roll; d) Laminate the first and second webs to join or adhere the first adhesive coating layer 18 to the second release coating layer 20 and/or the second adhesive coating layer 22, to form a single web label assembly 1 ready for optional printing (e.g. by static printing with a flexographic press); e) Perforate the laminated web into several shelf talker assemblies; f) Back-slit bottom sheet assembly 4, then trim and separate the laminated web into finished sheets with several shelf talker assemblies per sheet, ready for optional printing (e.g. laser-overprinting) by the customer.

In yet another aspect, the invention consists in a method of assembly or manufacture of a label assembly 1 consisting of a top sheet assembly 2 and bottom sheet assembly 4 by carrying out the following steps ofi 1. Provide a top sheet 14 having upper face surface 30 and lower face surface 32; 2. Apply a first release coating layer 12 to the upper face surface 30 of the top sheet 14; 3. Apply a first primer coating layer 16 to the lower, rear or underside face surface 32 of the top sheet 14; 4. Apply a first adhesive coating layer 18 on top of the first primer coating layer 16 to form top sheet assembly 2 as a first roll or first web; 5. Provide a bottom sheet 26 having an upper face surface 40 and lower or rear surface 42; 6. Apply a second primer coating layer 24 to the upper face surface 40 of the bottom sheet 26; 7. Apply a second adhesive coating layer 22 to the second primer coating layer 24; 8. Apply third release coating layer 28 to lower or rear surface 42 of the bottom sheet 26; 9. Using a label press, the bottom sheet 26 has a second release coating 20 applied to form the bottom sheet assembly 4, the top sheet assembly 2 and bottom sheet assembly 4 are then laminated together by laminating to join or adhere the first adhesive coating layer 18 to the second release coating layer 20 and/or the second adhesive coating layer 22, to form a single web as a label assembly 1,

10. An appropriate image or data 10 is printed (e.g. flexographic press) on the upper surface 30 of top sheet 14 or on first release coating layer 12; 11. Perforate all layers of the label assembly 1; 12. Back-slit bottom sheet assembly 4; 13. Edge trim the label assembly I to tidy; 14. The single web (comprising removable self-adhesive shelf talkers) is then sheeted into a required size of pre-printed laminated sheets having multiple shelf talkers therein; 15. Customer then overprints the top sheet assembly 2 or on to the first release coating layer 12 with variable data 10 by printers (e.g. by laser printer), forming a sheet of label assemblies 1 with self-adhesive first adhesive coating layer 18 only being exposed on a rear side of the label assembly 1 after peeling off at least a section of the bottom sheet assembly 4.

Detailed Description of the Invention The invention will now be described, by way of example only, by reference to the accompanying drawings: Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of the label assembly in accordance with a first preferred embodiment of the invention; Figure 2 is a schematic cross sectional side view of the label assembly; Figure 3 is a schematic of a shelf talker in a front view; Figure 4 is a schematic of the shelf talker of Figure 4 in a rear view; Figure 5 is a schematic of another shelf talker in a front view; Figure 6 is a schematic of the shelf talker of Figure 5 in a rear view; Figure 7 is a schematic of the preferred embodiment of a shelf talker in a front view; Figure 8 is a schematic of the shelf talker of Figure 7 in a rear view.

The following description will describe the invention in relation to preferred embodiments of the invention, namely a label assembly 1, such as for example as a shelf talker for removable attachment to a shelf, and method of manufacture. The invention is in no way limited to these preferred embodiments as they are purely to exemplify the invention only and that possible variations and modifications would be readily apparent without departing from the scope of the invention.

As shown in the schematics of Figures 1 and 2, the label assembly 1 consists of a top sheet assembly 2 and a bottom sheet assembly 4 which are formed as, or from, separate assemblies in rolls or webs and then are joined, connected or laminated together to form a laminated web as the label assembly 1.

The top sheet assembly 2 consists of the following joined or connected components in order of occurrence from top to bottom, including, a first release coating layer 12, at least one top sheet 14, a first primer coating layer 16, a first adhesive coating layer 18. The first release coating layer 12 or top sheet 14 is able to be printed on e.g. printed or overprinted by a flexographic press or laser printer including at least one print image or static data and/or variable data. The printed image as static data and/or overprinting as variable data 10 can optionally be printed after the top sheet assembly 2 has been formed and/or after laminating the top sheet assembly 2 to the bottom sheet assembly 4.

The bottom sheet assembly 4 consists, in order of occurrence from top to bottom, a second release coating layer 20, a second adhesive coating layer 22, a second primer coating layer 24, at least one bottom sheet 26 and a third release coating layer 28.

In terms of interchangeable terminology, the top sheet 14 can be called a face sheet, front sheet and the bottom sheet 26 can be called a liner, carrier or backing sheet.

Top SheetAssembly 2 The top sheet 14 is a paper sheet having an upper face surface 30 and a lower or rear face surface 32. The first release coating layer 12 is applied to the top sheet 14 upper face surface 30 forming a self-wound material in a first roll or first web which can be released from being wound for printing with print image and or variable data 10 thereon the release coating layer. The first release coating layer 12 functions to enable the top sheet 14 as a top sheet assembly 2 to be unwound as it is a liner-less material. If this release coating 12 was not present, the paper of top sheet 14might break during unwinding.

The first release coating layer 12 must be receptive to printing thereon. Top sheet 14 can include in this example a paper having a weight of 80 GSM, but can be any material within the range of 60 to 120 GSM. In this example first release coating 12 is continuously applied but equally can be applied in spots or discrete portions.

The first primer coating layer 16 is applied to the lower face surface 32 of the top sheet 14. The first primer coating layer 16 is applied so the first adhesive coating layer 18 which is subsequently applied performs as required to ensure better or enhanced adhesion or anchorage of the adhesive coating 18 to a support and yet be removable.

The first adhesive coating layer 18 in this example can have a coating weight of at least 5 GSM e.g. 6 GSM and is coated over the first primer coating layer 16. First adhesive coating layer 18 is an ultra-removable microsphere pressure sensitive adhesive.

The function of the first adhesive coating 18 is to enable good adhesion for the top sheet assembly 2 to the support surface e.g. shelf facings, and ultimately provide substantially clean residue-free removal from those facings.

The first adhesive coating layer 18 has for example a coating weight of at least 5 GSM in a pattern or continuously coated ultra-removable microsphere pressure sensitive adhesive which is only exposed when the bottom sheet assembly 4 is removed at least in part for when the top sheet assembly 2 comes into contact with the surface e.g. shelf or shelving.

The top sheet 14 or first release coating layer 12 of the label assembly 1 is adapted to be laser printable. Label assembly 1 should not fall off the surface e.g. store shelf nor should it leave any adhesive or paper residue when it is eventually replaced or removed. Furthermore the label assembly 1 and its layer composition is adapted to function under a variety of environments such as high and low humidity and temperatures including use in chillers or freezers. Additionally, the label assembly 1 will not curl up when used properly and is completely recyclable.

Bottom SheetAssembly 4 Bottom sheet 26 of bottom sheet assembly 4 is for example a paper layer having a weight of 80 GSM and an upper face surface 40 and a lower or rear face surface 42.

Second release coating layer 20 is applied on top of the second adhesive coating layer 22 of the bottom sheet 26 and is applied as a pattern coating, in various patterns to produce different-sized shelf talkers. This release coating layer 20 is applied to deaden the second adhesive coating layer 22 in designated areas so as to prevent the first adhesive coating layer 18 from adhering to second adhesive coating layer 22, thus enabling at least a section of bottom sheet assembly 4 to be removed thus exposing the required amount of adhesive area 18 of the top sheet assembly 2. The second release coating layer 20 is applied on a printing press to the adhesive layer 22 on bottom sheet 26 to assist with the removal of the top sheet assembly 2 from the bottom sheet assembly 4 or vice versa.

Second release coating 20 is pattern or continuously applied to align with the back-slit section of bottom assembly 4, enabling the required amount of adhesive area 18 of top sheet assembly 2 to be exposed.

Second adhesive coating layer 22 has a coating weight of for example 3 to 6 GSM and is an ultra-removable microsphere pressure sensitive adhesive. The adhesive coating thickness or weight of adhesive coating 22 is important as it must hold the top sheet 14 of the top sheet assembly 2 as a first web to the bottom sheet 26 of the bottom sheet assembly 4 as a second web so that the resulting laminated web assembly remains intact during printing, but does not transfer any adhesive 22 to the top sheet assembly 2 after removal of at least part of the bottom sheet assembly 4.

The function of the second adhesive coating 22 is to keep the laminated web intact during the laser over-printing process and to enhance the durability and stiffness of the label assembly 1 whilst attached to the surface e.g. shelf facing.

The second primer coating layer 24 is applied prior to second adhesive coating layer 22 to ensure that the adhesive coating layer 22 applied performs to the required adhesive strength specifications and is not significantly absorbed into the bottom sheet 26. Second primer coating 24 is continuously applied.

The third release coating layer 28 is applied to an underside or lower surface 42 of the bottom sheet 26 to enable the self-wound material of the bottom sheet assembly 4 to be unwound off the parent roll as it is made as aliner-less material. If this release coating 28 was not present, the paper of bottom sheet 26 might break or tear during unwinding. In this example, third release coating 28 is continuously applied.

The bottom sheet 4 assembly - has bottom sheet 26 with its upper surface 40, which is first primed by primer 24 and then coated with second adhesive layer 22. On the underneath surface 42 there is a third release coating 28 The bottom sheet 26 in its own second roll or second web, its exposed second adhesive layer 22 when wound on itself is joined to third release coating 28.

Release coating layers 12, 20, 28 A release coating reduces surface energy resulting in lower peel forces of pressure sensitive adhesive products applied on the given surface. Such release coatings can be produced with different chemical basis. Further information on selection and suitability of various types of release coats can be found in Handbook of pressure sensitive Adhesive Technology, Second edition, D. Satas 1989. Typically, but is not limited to, a release coating thickness of 3 to 10 pm can be used or applied in patterns or continuous coatings.

The function of the first 12 and third 28 release coatings, is to enable unwinding of the first rol/first web and separately the second roll/second web without each of the paper 12 and 26 breaking or tearing. The release coating 12 must be capable of accepting print.

The first release coating layer 12 is applied to the top sheet 14 upper face surface 30 to enable the self-wound material to release from the first roll for printing with print image or variable data 10 thereon to the first release coating layer 12. The first release coating layer 12 functions to enable the top sheet 14 to be unwound as it is a liner-less material. If this release coating 12 was not present, the paper of top sheet 14 might break during unwinding. The third release coating layer 28 has a similar function.

Adhesive coating layers 18, 22 The adhesive or adhesive coating 18 is usually given as average values using an industry standard measure (FINAT FTM2) There is an adhesive force of first adhesive layer 18 measured according to FINAT FTM2 on glass plates is at least 14 cN/25 mm (average value).

The adhesive coating thicknesses or weights or strengths have been optimised to strike the right balance between staying on the surface e.g. shelf facing for the intended time period, and also to be removable from the shelves without leaving a residue. The adhesive strength has been adjusted to ensure that there is sufficient adhesive force to keep the label assembly 1 on the shelf facings.

Furthermore, the adhesive coating layers 18 and 22 have been optimised to hold the two sheets top sheet 14 and bottom sheet, 26 together during the laser over-printing process, and to ensure optimum durability and minimum curl while attached to shelf facings.

The adhesive being used for this invention (e.g. layers 18, 22) can be applied as a pattern or can be fully coated and includes an ultra-removable microsphere pressure sensitive material that can have a coating weight of at least 3 GSM and preferably in the range from 3 to 6 GSM.

Second adhesive coating layer 22 serves to keep the top sheet assembly 2 securely attached to the bottom sheet 26 or bottom sheet assembly 4, during the laser over-printing process and afterwards while being attached to a surface e.g. shelf facings.

Primer coating layers 16, 24 A primer coating 16, 24 increases the anchorage of an adhesive layer 18, 22 to a substrate (e.g. a top sheet 14 or bottom sheet 26). Many different polymers can be used for a primer coating 16, 24. The choice depends on paper chemistry and adhesive type. Further information on selection and suitability of various types of primer coats can be found in Handbook of pressure sensitive Adhesive Technology, Second edition, D. Satas 1989.

Typically a primer coat thickness of 3 to 10 pm or at least 3 pm is used.

The first primer coating layer 16 is required to hold the first adhesive coating layer 18 (which may be pattern applied or fully coated) to surface 32 of top sheet 14. The second primer coating layer 24 is required to hold the second adhesive coating layer 22 to surface 40 of bottom sheet 26 which may be pattern applied or fully coated.

The function of each primer coating 16, 24 is to enable good anchorage of the adhesive coatings 18, 22 to top and bottom sheets 14, 26, but also prevent the adhesive coatings 18, 22 from being absorbed into those sheets 14, 26.

In summary, the main components of the top sheet assembly 2 and bottom sheet assembly 4, as first and second rolls or webs, respectively, are laminated together to form a label assembly 1 in a single combined web.

The top sheet assembly 2 and bottom sheet assembly 4 which as first and second rolls or webs are laminated together, whereby first adhesive coating layer 18 joins to second release coating layer 20 and/ or the second adhesive coating layer 22, to then form a label assembly 1 in a single web.

In summary the top sheet assembly 2, of the present invention can be said to consist of; in order, the following components: 1. Optional printing e.g. image or variable data 10 display to purchasers or consumers, pre-printed graphics and POS messages, including pricing, specials, etc can be applied at any point in the assembly of both sheet assemblies after laminating them together. This printing can include static data using, for example, a flexographic press. 2. First release coating 12 functions to allow the image 10 to be later overprinted in a printer (e.g. for variable data by a laser printer) whilst it must be printable both on a press (e.g. flexographic printing after laminating) and in later printing after cutting e.g. laser printers. Its main function is to enable the parent roll to unwind safely without paper breaks or tearing. 3. Top sheet 14 serves to carry the printed images 10 on one side or face 30, and the first adhesive coating layer 18 by which it is attached to shelf facings on the other side or face 32.

4. First primer coating layer 16 functions to provide a base for the adhesive coating layer 18, which enables good anchorage of the adhesive 18 to the surface 32 of top sheet 14, without it actually absorbing into that paper of top sheet 14. 5. First adhesive coating layer 18 functions to removably affix to a surface (e.g. a shel) and enables label assemblies 1 to adhere securely to the shelf facings, but ultimately be removed/repositioned easily without leaving any adhesive 18 residue.

The bottom sheet assembly 4 consists ofi 1. Second release coating layer 20. This release coating layer 20 allows a section of the bottom sheet assembly 4 to be easily removed (from the top sheet assembly 2) to expose the required area of adhesive 18 of the top sheet assembly 2. 2. Second adhesive coating layer 22 serves to keep the top sheet assembly 2 securely attached to the bottom sheet 26 or bottom sheet assembly 4, during the laser over printing process and afterwards while attached to shelf facings. 3. Second primer coating layer 24 functions to provide a base for the second adhesive layer 22 and enables good anchorage of the second adhesive layer 22 to the bottom sheet 26 being a base paper, without it actually absorbing into that paper 26. 4. Bottom sheet 26 functions to provide a base to the top sheet assembly 2 and serves to prevent the first adhesive coating layer 18 from the top sheet 14 from contacting any components in a printer (e.g. for overprinting of variable data by laser printer), and "carries" the shelf talker assemblies 1 through a printer (e.g. laser over-printing) process then enhances durability and minimises label curl while attached to shelf facings. 5. Third release coating layer 28 allows the bottom sheet 26 of the bottom sheet assembly 4 to unwind safely off the parent roll without paper of the bottom sheet 26 breaks or tearing.

Apparatus -Specially modified label printing press A specially modified label printing apparatus has been developed to laminate two webs of self-wound (i.e. has release coating) self-adhesive material together (top sheet assembly 2 and bottom sheet assembly 4) whereby the laminating joins or adheres the first adhesive coating layer 18 underneath the top sheet 14 to the second release coating layer 20 and/or the second adhesive coating layer 22 of the bottom sheet assembly 4, followed by printing (e.g.

static data on say a suitable printer like a flexographic press), perforating, back-slitting and then supplying it in sheets which can then be optionally over printed on suitable printers (e.g. variable data on for example a laser printer).

Brief Summary of method Top sheet 14 is primed with primer coating 16, release coated with release coating 12 and adhesive coated with adhesive coating 18 by a paper mill to form a first web or roll to form the top sheet assembly 2.

Bottom sheet 26 is primed with primer coating 24, release coated with release coating 28 and adhesive coated with adhesive coating 22 by the paper mill to form a second web or roll to form part of the bottom sheet assembly 4.

On a specially modified label press, apply release coating 20 to bottom sheet 26 primed 24, release coated 28 and adhesive coated 22 by the paper mill to form the complete bottom sheet assembly 4, on a second web, then laminate the two webs together (e.g. by joining or adhering the first adhesive coating layer 18 to the second release coating 20 and/or to the second adhesive coating layer 22), then optionally apply printed image 10 to the first release coating layer 12 (e.g. for applying static data by a flexographic press or for variable data by a laser printer), then perforate the entire thickness of the laminated web, then back-slit bottom sheet 26 or assembly 4 and trim, then sheet the web into finished sheets ready for printing (e.g. laser-overprinting by the customer). In use, the user divides the sheet into individual shelf talkers, removes a section of bottom sheet assembly 4 to expose adhesive and fixes the label assembly 1 to a shelf

Detailed Method of assembly or manufacture of the label assembly 1 1. Provide a top sheet 14 having upper face surface 30 and lower face surface 32; 2. Apply a first release coating 12 to the upper face surface 30 of the top sheet 14; 3. Apply a first primer coating layer 16 to the lower, rear or underside face surface 32 of the top sheet 14; 4. Apply a first adhesive coating layer 18 on top of the first primer coating layer 16 to form the top sheet assembly 2 as a first web;

5. Provide a bottom sheet 26 having an upper face surface 40 and lower or rear surface 42; 6. Apply a second primer coating layer 24 to the upper face surface 40 of the bottom sheet 26; 7. Apply a second adhesive coating layer 22 to the second primer coating layer 24; 8. Apply third release coating layer 28 to lower or rear surface 42 of the bottom sheet 26; 9. Using a label press, the bottom sheet 26 has a second release coating 20 applied to form bottom sheet assembly 4 as a second web, the first and second webs are laminated together to join or adhere the first adhesive coating layer 18, to the second release coating layer 20 and/or the second adhesive coating layer 22, to form a single web as a label assembly 1, 10. An appropriate image and/or data 10 is printed on the upper face surface 30 or first release coating layer 12 of the top sheet assembly 2 (e.g. static data on flexographic press); 11. Perforate through the entire thickness of the label assembly 1 to form several labels/shelf talkers per sheet, 12. Back-slit through bottom sheet assembly 4; 13. Edge trim the width of the removable self-adhesive shelf talker assembly 1 to tidy; 14. The single web (label assembly 1) is then sheeted into A4 size (or other sheet sizes as required) optionally pre-printed laminated sheets; 15. Customer then optionally prints (e.g. overprints with variable data with laser printer or static data) the removable self-adhesive shelf talker assembly 1 or first release coating layer 12 with variable images or data 10 with laser printers (e.g. at point of use,) forming a label assembly 1 with self-adhesive coating layer 18 only exposed where required i.e. removing at least portion of the bottom sheet assembly 4 where required.

Steps 1-4 to make the first web can be carried out at the same time as steps 5- 8 for the second web or steps 1-4 can be done before or after the steps 5- 8. In one option, a supplier might be able to provide top sheet assembly 2 as per steps 1-4 and also separately provide bottom sheet assembly 4 as per steps 5-8.

In step 4 to apply the adhesive coating 18 utilizes a fully coated ultra-removable microsphere pressure sensitive adhesive which minimises the risk of leaving adhesive residue when removing (the label assembly 1 with or without out part of the bottom sheet assembly 4) from the shelf facing as well as improving cleanliness.

The adhesive 18 can be applied to the top sheet 14 (e.g. surface 32 or to primer 16) in discrete areas, patterns or be continuous, as related to adhesive areas which require back slitting, to where the top sheet assembly 2 will come into contact with the shelf facings.

The top sheet 14 is uncoated paper stock (no clay coating) on both sides to reduce the likelihood of curling due to humidity in chillers and freezers. In one option "coating" means a smooth clay coating normally associated with printing. The paper 14, 26 of the present invention does not have a conventional coating ("clay" coating), but does have a release coating and primer - these are not considered "coatings" in the usual parlance when describing papers but does need to be able to handle laser printing.

The bottom sheet 26 in one option is developed from the same type of sheet as the top sheet 14 to prevent or reduce the likelihood curling before and during printing or over printing.

The top sheet 14 and bottom sheets 26 are recyclable and there is no silicon coating or glassine liner to be disposed of

Advantages of various preferred embodiments a) Much easier to separate the backing sheet 26 or bottom sheet assembly 4 from the top sheet 14 or top sheet assembly 2- there are significant labour savings b) No complicated laminated top sheet assembly and backing sheet assembly c) Top sheet 14 substantially the same as bottom sheet 26 which reduces potential curling d) Top sheet 14 substantially the same as bottom sheet 26 makes recycling much easier e) Readily recyclable f) Perforated shelf talker assemblies 1 are very easy to separate from each other g) Reduced labour costs when attaching to any substrate such as for example a shelf face and subsequent removal from a shelf face h) Very simple installation for each shelf talker i) Top sheet 14 or first release coating layer 12 can be overprinted when in store j) Importantly, there is less chance of adhesive 18 (ie. from the top sheet) residue being left on shelf face after shelf talker removed from shelf k) Adhesive 18 is only exposed where the shelf talker comes into contact with the shelf face, there is no exposed adhesive 18 on the shelf talker except where it is required to hold the shelf talker (ie. 2 and with part of 4) to the shelf 1) Uses fully coated ultra-removable microsphere pressure sensitive adhesive 18, 22 m) Shelf facing better able to be kept clean n) The adhesive coating weights have been optimised to balance staying on the shelf facing for an intended time without leaving an adhesive residue when removed o) Top sheet 14 and bottom sheet 26 do not have a clay coating on either side to prevent or reduce any curling when used with high humidity e.g. in chillers or freezers p) Curling is reduced by top sheet 14 being formed of the same material as the carrier sheet/bottom sheet 26, which prevents or reduces curling during over-printing and in use q) A lower coat weight adhesive coating 22 is used to hold the top sheet 14 to the bottom or carrier sheet 26 during overprinting r) Able to recycle top sheet 14 and bottom sheet 26 with or without coatings and primers s) The label assembly 1 can be used at room temperature and also in chilled or frozen environments

The first adhesive coating layer 18 is lowermost and underneath the top sheet 14 and is designed to adhere the shelf talker or top sheet assembly 2 to the shelf but where combined with at least part of bottom sheet assembly 4 as shelf talker assembly 1 whereby a corresponding pattern of second release coating layer 20 on top of the bottom sheet 26 is so that a section of the bottom sheet assembly 4 can be removed from beneath the shelf talker assembly 1 to expose a required portion or amount of adhesive 18 from the top sheet assembly 2.

The laminating to join the top sheet assembly 2 to the bottom sheet assembly 4 can be adhesive 18 to adhesive 22 or be in combination with the release coating 20 or be through or around the release coating 20. Overprinting with images 10 can be done after the top sheet assembly 2 is formed and/or after laminating the top sheet assembly 2 to the bottom sheet assembly 4 by themanufacturer and/or customer.

Alternatives The images in Figures 3-6 illustrate two example alternatives of the shelf talker. The alternative shown in Figures 5 and 6 is an example of a shelf talker with added support that can be used in a cooled or frozen environment (e.g. in a freezer) or in a windy area, each of which can interfere with adhesion of the shelf talker. The alternative shown in figures 3 and 4 is an example of the shelf talker for use in another situation, e.g. a non-cooled or ambient temperature environment, with a separable shelf-edge label. Noting that these uses are only examples of some possible uses to which the label assemblies 1 can be put.

Each label assembly 1 in a laminated sheet can be perforated through both the top sheet assembly 2 and the bottom sheet assembly 4 to allow easy separation of each shelf talker. This shelf talker assembly 1 has the bottom sheet assembly 4 including a removable strip like portion, to expose part of adhesive layer 18 for use in adhering to any suitable surface like for example a portion of a shelf only after that portion of the backing sheet assembly 4 has been removed.

In these examples the label assembly 1 has three main portions i.e. an upper portion 44, a middle portion 46 and lower portion 48.

As shown in Figures 5 and 6, removal of a middle portion 46 of the bottom sheet assembly 4 leaves the lower portion of the shelf talker including the top sheet assembly 2 adhered to a bottom sheet assembly 4, and the upper portion also having a top sheet assembly adhered to a bottom sheet assembly 4.

In regard to a freezer or cool store option, the upper portion is used by folding it behind the middle portion and part of the lower portion, to be placed behind and supported by a shelf data strip or a folded plastic shelf strip. This leaves the top sheet assembly of the middle portion being able to be adhered to and also be supported by an outside of a shelf, shelf data strip or a plastic sleeve/pocket with the lower portion (top sheet and bottom sheet assembly) hanging below the middle portion (just top sheet assembly) but being able to be easily lifted to inspect other pricing information located on the shelf data strip.

In regard to an ambient temperature or non-freezer option as shown in Figures 3 and 4, the upper portion 44 can be easily separated and slid in or behind a data strip, which simply allows the shelf talker to be adhered and supported by the middle portion 46 to the outside of the data strip or plastic sleeve or in an outside edge or face of any shelf or surface. The shelf talker will then in this option comprise just the middle portion 46 with exposed adhesive 18 and the lower portion 48. This shelf talker can then be adhered at its top as required to an outside of the shelf data strip with the lower portion hanging beyond and over the shelf data strip.

The label assembly 1 of this embodiment of the invention includes the top sheet assembly 2 attached to the bottom sheet assembly 4 with only a portion of the bottom sheet assembly 4 being removed to expose at least a part of the adhesive layer or coating 18 for adhering to a surface e.g. a shelf or shelf edge data strip.

How large any of the portions are as described is entirely a matter of choice which does not alter the function that they must perform. The position and extent of the exposed adhesive after removal of the portion of the bottom sheet assembly e.g. removable strip like portion of the bottom sheet assembly 4 can be varied to extend upwardly into the upper portion and lower portion or with respect to the perforated edge of the upper portion of label assembly 1.

In Figures 3 and 4, the label assembly 1 is perforated between the upper portion 44 and middle portion 46 to allow the complete separation of the upper portion 44.

In Figures 5 and 6, the label assembly 1 is perforated between the upper portion 44 and middle portion 46 to allow the upper portion 44 to be folded back for insertion into a shelf data strip. The addition of a second back-slit enables the removal of a portion of the bottom assembly 4 behind the middle portion 46 to expose adhesive 18 for improved attachment to the shelf edge in demanding environments.

In both of these variants, having adhesive layer 18 as part of the top sheet assembly 2 and the other adhesive layer 22 as part of the bottom sheet assembly 4 are provided to allow the top sheet assembly 2 to be removable from the bottom sheet assembly 4 and yet simultaneously allow a portion of the top sheet assembly 2 to be re-attachable to a shelf (without leaving any residue) and yet in another option allow the rest of the shelf talker to combine the top sheet assembly 2 with the bottom sheet assembly 4, to be stable and not curl. The perforations and die cuts can be used either to allow folding or removal (part or whole) of whatever portions are perforated or cut.

Parts Schedule Removable repositionable self-adhesive shelf talker assembly 1 Top sheet assembly 2 Bottom sheet assembly 4 Print image or variable data 10 First release coating layer 12 Top sheet 14 First primer coating layer 16 First adhesive coating layer 18 Second release coating layer 20 Second adhesive coating layer 22 Second primer coating layer 24 Bottom sheet 26 Third release coating layer 28 Top sheet - Upper surface 30 Top sheet - Lower surface 32 Bottom sheet - Upper surface 40 Bottom sheet - Lower surface 42 Upper portion 44 Middle portion 46 Lower portion 48

Variations It will of course be realised that while the foregoing has been given by way of illustrative example of this invention, all such and other modifications and variations thereto as would be apparent to persons skilled in the art are deemed to fall within the broad scope and ambit of this invention as is hereinbefore described.

Throughout the description of this specification, the word "comprise" and variations of that word such as "comprising" and "comprises", are not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers or steps. Although shelf talkers are disclosed as one example of a use, the label of the present invention can be used on any support surface that needs a label.

The product ie. label assembly 1 with printable repositionable labels could be used for a multitude of other end-uses on almost any surface or substrate. There are only a few specific features pertinent to "shelf talkers"; including the actual graphics that are printed and the amount of adhesive applied (both in terms of coating weight and the physical area of exposed adhesive).

Though the invention is directed to one example being a label assembly 1, equally the self adhesive shelf talker is just one example of a label, sign or pattern coated label of the present invention that can be printed and/or overprinted (e.g. by laser printer for use with variable data) on top of or around first printed image 10 (e.g. by flexographic press as static data) and then removably attached or repositioned, without leaving any adhesive 18 residue, to any substrate or surface such as for example a wall, shelf or facing.

For the purposes of this document, "top sheet 14", face sheet" and "print carrier" can have similar meanings, and shall be simply referred to as"top sheet". Similarly, "bottom sheet", "liner", "backing sheet" and "carrier sheet" can also be said to mean the same thing, and shall be referred to as "bottom sheet". The "parent roll" can also be called a deckle, jumbo roll, master roll or log roll. Various terms such as coatings, layers or similar can be used to describe the application of a substance of any thickness in any pattern or extent e.g. in discrete patches over one face/surface or both faces and/or on side edges or not. One layer 14, 26 or coating 12, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 and 28 is disclosed though any number of consecutive layers or coatings in abutting or spaced relationship is also possible.

The adhesive is best described as a coarse dispersed acrylate, solvent free adhesive; also known as an ultra-removable microsphere pressure sensitive adhesive.

Top, and bottom, above or below, on top or underneath, are relative terms and can swapped around depending on the observer's orientation and so are not strictly limiting. Terms like "coatings", "layers" or "patterns" are also inter-changeable terms describing various forms that a material, substance can be applied in or to a surface or face.

The extent of a particular material can depend on whatever form it is in e.g. solid powder or liquid. Future variations can include using a filmic top sheet (instead of a paper top-sheet 14) or a filmic bottom sheet 26. The term self-adhesive can be said to be a broad term which can include examples such as pressure sensitive. The complete sheet assembly 1 can include at least one shelf talker or many shelf talkers per sheet.

Terms like "coatings", "clay coatings", "layers", "patterns" or "spot" applied for any of the components of the top sheet assembly or bottom sheet assembly can be varied, combined or interchanged to suit requirements or industry usage or standards. Printing can be carried out to include static and/or variable data by any suitable printer e.g. flexographic press for static data and a laser printer for variable or vice versa, at any time after laminating the bottom sheet assembly 4 to the top sheet assembly 2.

Claims

Claims: 1. A removable/repositionable self-adhesive printable label assembly (herein a "label assembly") 1 for removable attachment to a surface such as a shelf or shelving, the label assembly 1 consisting of a top sheet assembly 2 laminated to a bottom sheet assembly 4 wherein, the top sheet assembly 2 consists of the following joined or connected components, in order of occurrence from top to bottom, a first release coating layer 12, at least one top sheet 14, a first primer coating layer 16, a first adhesive coating layer 18, and the bottom sheet assembly 4 consists of; in order of occurrence from top to the bottom, a second release coating layer 20, a second adhesive coating layer 22, a second primer coating layer 24, and at least one bottom sheet 26 with a third release coating layer 28 on an underside 42 of the bottom sheet 26, wherein the first release coating layer 12 or top sheet 14 is printable and the laminating serves to join or adhere the first adhesive coating layer 18 of the top sheet assembly 2 to the second release coating layer 20 and/or second adhesive coating layer 22 of the bottom sheet assembly 4, wherein the construction and configuration of the assembly 1 enables at least part of the bottom sheet assembly 4 to be separable from the top sheet assembly 2 or vice versa, without removing adhesive 18 from the top sheet assembly 2, wherein top sheet 14 is formed of substantially the same material as the bottom sheet 26.
2. A method of assembly or manufacture of a label assembly 1 by carrying out the following steps of a) Top sheet 14 is primed with primer coating 16, release coated with release coating 12 and adhesive coated with adhesive coating 18 by a paper mill to form a first web or roll as a top sheet assembly 2; b) Separately bottom sheet 26 is primed with primer coating 24, release coated with release coating 28 and adhesive coated with adhesive coating 22 by the paper mill to form a second web or roll as a bottom sheet assembly 4 for later laminating to the top sheet assembly 2, c) On a specially modified label press, apply release coating 20 to bottom sheet 26 primed with primer coating 24, release coated with release coating 28 and adhesive coated with adhesive coating 22 by the paper mill to form the bottom sheet assembly 4 as a second web or roll; d) Laminate the first and second webs to join or adhere the first adhesive coating layer 18 to the second release coating layer 20 and/or the second adhesive coating layer 22, to form a single web label assembly 1 ready for optional printing (e.g. by static printing with a flexographic press); e) Perforate the laminated web into several shelf talker assemblies; f) Back-slit bottom sheet assembly 4, then trim and separate the laminated web into finished sheets with several shelf talker assemblies per sheet, ready for optional printing (e.g. laser-overprinting) by the customer.
3. A method of assembly or manufacture of a label assembly 1 consisting of a top sheet assembly 2 and bottom sheet assembly 4 by carrying out the following steps ofi 1. Provide a top sheet 14 having upper face surface 30 and lower face surface 32; 2. Apply a first release coating layer 12 to the upper face surface 30 of the top sheet 14; 3. Apply a first primer coating layer 16 to the lower, rear or underside face surface 32 of the top sheet 14;
4. Apply a first adhesive coating layer 18 on top of the first primer coating layer 16 to form top sheet assembly 2 as a first roll or first web;
5. Provide a bottom sheet 26 having an upper face surface 40 and lower or rear surface 42;
6. Apply a second primer coating layer 24 to the upper face surface 40 of the bottom sheet 26;
7. Apply a second adhesive coating layer 22 to the second primer coating layer 24;
8. Apply third release coating layer 28 to lower or rear surface 42 of the bottom sheet 26;
9. Using a label press, the bottom sheet 26 has a second release coating 20 applied to form the bottom sheet assembly 4, the top sheet assembly 2 and bottom sheet assembly 4 are then laminated together by laminating to join or adhere the first adhesive coating layer 18 to the second release coating layer 20 and/or the second adhesive coating layer 22, to form a single web as a label assembly 1;
10. An appropriate image or data 10 is printed (e.g. flexographic press) on the upper surface 30 of top sheet 14 or on first release coating layer 12;
11. Perforate all layers of the label assembly 1;
12. Back-slit bottom sheet assembly 4;
13. Edge trim the label assembly 1 to tidy;
14. The single web (comprising removable self-adhesive shelf talkers) is then sheeted into a required size of pre-printed laminated sheets having multiple shelf talkers thereon;
15. Customer then overprints the top sheet assembly 2 or on to the first release coating layer 12 with variable data 10 by printers (e.g. by laser printer), forming a sheet of label assemblies 1 with self-adhesive first adhesive coating layer 18 only being exposed on a rear side of the label assembly 1 after peeling off at least a section of the bottom sheet assembly 4.

IMAGE 10

12

30 14 Top Sheet Assembly 2 16 Assembly 32 18 40 20 1 Bottom Sheet 4 Assembly 22 42 24

FIGURE 1 26

28

10 PRINT IMAGE OR VARIABLE DATA 30 12 RELEASE COATING 14 TOP SHEET 2 32 16 PRIMER Assembly 18 ULTRA REMOVABLE MICROSPHERE PRESSURE SENSITIVE ADHESIVE 1 20 PATTERN-COATED RELEASE COATING REMOVABLE MICROSPHERE 22 ULTRA PRESSURE SENSITIVE ADHESIVE

40 24 PRIMER 4 26 BOTTOM SHEET 42 28 RELEASE COATING

FIGURE 2

44 Shelf Edge Label 2021221512

Exposed Adhesive Exposed Adhesive 46 Die cut back sheet Die cut back sheet

48 Perforated both layers Perforated both layers Perforated both sheets Perforated both sheets

Front Rear Front Rear

FIGURE 3 FIGURE 4 FIGURE 7 FIGURE 8

44 FOLD INTO DATA STRIP

46 Die cut back sheet

48 Perforated both layers Perforated both layers

Front Rear

FIGURE 5 FIGURE 6