Labels

A method of producing a printed label, the method comprising:

• providing a label substrate having a first surface and a second surface, wherein the first and second surfaces form opposing surfaces of the label substrate;
• applying a primer comprising a cross-linkable primer resin onto the first surface of a label substrate to form a primer layer;
• electrophotographically printing onto the primer layer an electrostatic ink composition comprising a cross-linkable thermoplastic resin to form a printed layer;
• applying a cross-linking composition comprising an epoxy-based cross-linking agent to the printed layer, wherein the epoxy-based cross-linking agent penetrates into the electrostatic ink composition and the primer layer, and wherein the epoxy-based cross-linking agent has the formula:
• wherein X is a group including an epoxy group, Y is H or an alkyl;
• and p is an integer from 0 to 10;
• activating the cross-linking agent;
• and
• applying an over print varnish over the cross-linking composition, wherein the over print varnish comprises a polymer having an isocyanurate functionality;
• wherein an adhesive is present on the second surface of the label substrate when providing the label substrate, or wherein the adhesive is subsequently applied to the second surface of the label substrate at any point in the method.