ID protectors

Descriptions provided by manufacturers.

One-size-fits-all clip

The HIPClip by Hip Labels was developed in conjunction with, and has been field tested at, several large U.S. nurseries over the past year. Company president Bob Lovejoy says that one large grower tested 200 HIPClips right next to 200 pieces of the older standard device. The older device had 66 failures, qualified as a tag blowing off, the stake being removed from container for some reason, or other way the plant loses its identification). The HIPClip, by contrast, had one failure.

The patent-pending HIPClip eliminates several major functional issues inherent in current display stakes. HIPClip’s attachment mechanism enables it to easily, quickly, and securely attach to a wide range of hang tag formats. The nagging problem of tags blowing off, associated with traditional stakes, is eliminated, even in gale force winds. The device clips to Ithe lip of any container. and reportedly provides a more permanent connection to the container. It’s also more consistent on the retail floor, with tags appearing at the same height, making them easier for consumers to see and read.

The HIPClip can attach to the lip of virtually any size container, eliminating the need for multiple sizes of pot locks– one size fits all. Lovejoy says the way in which the HIPClip attaches to a tag is different than a standard stake. It has teeth that pierce the tag, creating a permanent connection.

Older display stakes typically have two prongs at the top that are forced up through die cut holes in the tag. Those holes and the prongs don’t always work well together, and tags can blow off. The HIPClip helps growers avoid the significant time and cost associated with die cutting tags. The HIPClip prototype was shown at the summer 2013 trade shows. It won a SNA Retailers’ Choice Award at SNA 2013 in Atlanta in August.

HIPClip is produced with a blend of virgin and recycled plastic, is recyclable, and is manufactured in the U.S. Using HIPClip in tandem with HIP Labels’ exclusive green tag substrate, MilkMade, offers a recycled/recyclable stake/tag combination.

For more: www.hiplabels.com

Solution-oriented tags and labels

Economy Tag & Label, a SATO brand, specializes in the development of effective solutions that help garden centers, landscapers, and growers boost their brand recognition, lower costs, and enhance customer satisfaction. Slip-On tags, pot tags, labels, and signage that facilitate the tracking, shipping and marketing of plants and inventory assets are available in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors.

For more: www.satoamerica.com

Dual-purpose stake tags

MasterTag’s newly introduced Premium Gardener’s XL stake tag is dual purpose: it can be used as a locking or stake tag. A locking feature allows for use as a locking or conventional stake tag. MasterTag touts the Premium Gardener’s XL for its superior score in strength, which helps make tag sticking simpler and more effiecient. The tag is said to be great for perennials, as it is sized to work in both quart and gallon pots. It is constructed from an improved, more durable substrate that won’t break when exposed to the elements.

For more: www.mastertag.com

Purposeful printers

The SATO TXPSX thermal printer features a rugged powder-coated industrial strength steel case, standard USB, Parallel and Serial ports (Ethernet is available) and 5-inch print head with 10-inch tag width allowance. Designed for use in a hard-working environment, but attractive enough for store front appearance, the TXPSX easily handles material thicknesses up to 24 mil. at speeds of up to 10 inches per second.

For more: www.satoamerica.com

The SM4.25 modified thermal printer by Stover Manufacturing features a color LCD touch-screen display, die-cast aluminum chassis, standard USB and Ethernet ports, and a 4.25-inch print head. It prints at 300 dpi near edge print head, on heavy .020 and .022 poly tags. And a Windows PCL driver allows for easy integration with existing labeling and POS software programs.

Ease of use is improved by the use of presets that accommodate different types of tags or labels.

For more: www.stovermfg.com

Photos courtesy of respective companies