1845
Rubber-based pressure-sensitive adhesives developed for medical tapes.
Learn more, then join us
Read about the history of TLMI and learn more about our mission for Community, Insight and Advocacy — then click to join the TLMI community!
about TLMI
Where Competition and Collaboration Meet
At TLMI, converters, suppliers, and partners come together to navigate what’s next through industry insights, meaningful connections, and shared learning. It’s a place where competitors become collaborators, challenges become opportunities, and innovation moves our industry forward.
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%
of the North America Label Market
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Active Members
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In-Person Events
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Webinars a Year
what drives tlmi
Power of Partnership. Shaped by Members
From navigating market conditions and regulatory shifts to understanding workforce trends and economic challenges, your membership delivers valuable resources and connections year-round. The value starts immediately and continues through every stage of your business journey.
Our Core Focus Areas
- Market Conditions
- Regulatory Shifts
- Workforce Trends
- Economic/Geopolitical Impacts
our journey
Community 93 Years in the Making
TLMI’s membership is built over 90 years of the brightest in the industry. Explore the award winning members throughout our history.
1862
First product ID labels produced in the U.S.
1933
Tag Manufacturers Institute (TMI) formed
1946
First flexographic tape printer developed
1947
Printable, self-wound tape introduced by 3M
1951
Permanent pressure-sensitive adhesives created
1956
First pressure-sensitive label press developed
1958
Flexographic Technical Association (FTA) formed
1962
TLMI formed through merger; expands to include label converters
1964
First Glossary of Terms published
1966
Supplier membership begins
1973
Management Ratio Report launched
1975–76
Membership expands to Canada, Mexico, and globally
1978
TLMI Awards Competition begins
1979
TLMI Scholarship established
1981
Laser-engraved anilox roll developed
1986
Best Managed Company Award introduced
1987
Converter of the Year Award established
1989
TLMI co-sponsors LabelExpo USA; World Label Awards launched
1990
TLMI co-sponsors Labelexpo USA; World Label Awards launched
1991
TLMI becomes self-managed, relocates to Iowa
1992
Singer Award replaces Best Managed Company Award
1992
TLMI becomes self-managed, relocates to Iowa
1993
Liner Recycling Program launched
1994–97
Label studies published; first joint events with FINAT
1998
Donated 1M air miles to Make-A-Wish
2000–03
Continued global partnerships and environmental awards
2004–07
Member programs launched (sales, insurance, shipping)
HQ Moves
Arlington, VA → Milford, OH
2021
Virtual Spring Summit
2022
Partnership with Innovatis Group and headquarters moves to Nashville, TN.
2024
First Market Insights Report released
2025
Largest Annual Meeting in over 20 years. Dale Coates becomes President & CEO of TLMI.
our leadership & committees
Built by members. Driven by Impact
Meet the board of directors and team that helps turn ideas into action.
Board of Directors
Inland Packaging
Mark Glendenning
Yerecic Label
Kristin Yerecic Scott
Blue Label Packaging Co.
Andrew Boyd
Abbott Label
John Abbott
Gallus a Heidelberg Company
Andre Blais
Crane Consumables
Robert Crane
Avery Dennison
Tina Hart
Amherst Label, an Inovar Company
Nye Hornor
Flexo Wash, LLC
Patrick Potter
Graymills Corporation
Kristen Shields
NOSCO
Chad Tarkany
KDV Label
Keith Walz
AWT Labels & Packaging
Michelle Zeller
TLMI Team
CEO & President
Dale Coates
Vice President Sustainability
Rosalyn Bandy
Senior Marketing Coordinator
Jessica Avery
Senior Community Programs Coordinator
Makayle Botts
Event Manager
Mackenzie Crabtree
Membership Administrator
Linda Mattia
Events & Meetings Coordinator
Annie McMahon
Digital Marketing Coordinator
Dani Neece
Our Partners
TLMI Video / Visualized Productions
Nick Givan
TLMI Video / Visualized Productions
Greg Wichard
TLMI Event Planner / Meetings in Motion
Vicki Runyeon
TLMI Event Planner / Meetings in Motion