In a strategic move to accelerate growth, expand production capabilities, and offer unmatched print quality, Cover Label has installed the Domino N730i digital UV inkjet label press. This decision marks a significant milestone for the Los Angeles-based label converter, which has grown from a modest flexographic print shop into a cutting-edge operation serving diverse industries including food and beverage, cosmetics, health, and other consumer packaged goods.
Co-CEOs Pat Wafer and Ryder Fyrwald acquired the business, then known as Alros Label, seven years ago with the goal of transforming it into a modern label printing powerhouse. “We were looking for a solid business to grow in the packaging space,” says Ryder. “Since then, we’ve rebranded as Cover Label, expanded into digital with Domino, added multiple flexographic presses, acquired Crown Label, and moved into a significantly larger warehouse.”
Today, Cover Label operates with a team of under 20 employees across staggered shifts, running one Domino digital press and four flexographic presses: a 17″ Nilpeter FA7, a 13″ Mark Andy 2200, a 7″ Mark Andy 2200, and a Webtron 7550. Finishing capabilities include a Grafotronic laser die cutter. “Fast turnaround, excellent service, and technical capability are our trademarks,” adds Ryder. “We serve customers who value speed, reliability, and standout embellishments like foils and spot UV.”
Digital Driving Demand
Digital printing has become central to Cover Label’s value proposition. The company initially installed a Domino N610i in early 2020. “At the time, we were doing under a million in revenue and took a big risk investing in digital,” Pat explains. “But it paid off immediately. COVID created unexpected demand, and we doubled our business that year.”
The Domino digital press didn’t just serve short runs—it opened new doors. “We saw multi-SKU work driving demand,” says Pat. “Having digital allowed us to win customers who later gave us flexo work, too.”
Their business has been growing at such a fast pace, Cover Label decided to transition to the Domino N730i. The decision was driven by three key factors: speed, resolution, and efficiency. “We went from 600 dpi to 1200 dpi, and from 25–30 meters per minute on the N610i, to 60–70 meters per minute on the N730i,” says Pat. “That alone doubled our capacity. The improved resolution also lets us print small text and fine gradients with unmatched clarity.” With enhanced capacity, Cover Label has shifted longer jobs to digital.
The Domino N730i also created new workflow opportunities. “We noticed our finishing equipment couldn’t keep up,” says Pat. “We’re now adding a semi-rotary die cutter to complement the laser system.”
Customer feedback has been positive, even if not formally solicited. “We have a health & beauty customer with fine four-color process text that we struggled to run well on flexo,” says Ryder. “With the N730i, we delivered digitally printed samples that were spot on. That job is now fully digital.”
Beyond operational improvements, Cover Label views the new press as a strategic sales tool. “We notified customers & prospects that we’re investing in the best digital technology,” Pat says. “It gives them confidence. When they visit and see the press, it reinforces that we’re serious about quality.”
The Domino Difference
Working with Domino has been a highlight for the team. “They genuinely care,” says Ryder. “Their service is best-in-class. Other equipment vendors don’t even come close.” Pat agrees, “From financing to training and support, Domino is our best equipment partner. We’ve got the tools and the support to keep evolving.”
A Bright Future
Looking ahead, Cover Label sees continued expansion, both in operations and technology. “We want to grow to full capacity, then expand outside of California,” says Ryder. “We’re also exploring other packaging formats like shrink sleeves, flexible packaging, and folding cartons.”
About Cover Label
Cover Label is a Southern California-based label converter specializing in pressure-sensitive labels for food, beverage, cosmetic, health, and CPG sectors. With both flexographic and digital printing capabilities, Cover Label is known for rapid turnaround, high-end embellishments, and dependable service. For more information on Cover Label, please visit coverlabel.com
About Domino
Domino is a leading manufacturer and distributor of digital printing and product identification solutions. Celebrating its 47th year in business, Domino is a global organization with world headquarters in the UK, and North America headquarters in Gurnee, Illinois. Domino has 25 subsidiaries, representation in over 120 countries, and over 3,000 employees worldwide. For more information on Domino digital printing, please visit dominodigitalprinting.com
