Abstract: A method of labeling a product container includes the steps of providing first and second webs of heat shrinkable label material and a heat shrinkable splice tape having an adhesive on a surface of the tape. The webs are arranged such that ends of the webs abut one another and the splice tape is adhered to a portion of each of the webs to extend transversely across a width defined by the webs to form a continuous web. The webs may include separate laminates of heat shrinkable material and ink. The webs have a combined length sufficient to encircle an outer surface of a container and shrink into a substantially conforming relationship thereto when the webs are heated.

Abstract: A structure is defined for supplying heat shrinkable labels to a labeling machine. Two elongated webs of a heat shrinkable laminate are provided having a continuous series of printed labels positioned end to end thereon. A clear heat shrinkable splice, having an adhesive on one surface, is used to secure the ends of the two webs such that they are positioned adjacent one another and such that they form a single continuous web. The material of the labels and the material of the splice have substantially equivalent shrinkage values such that, upon application of heat to the label and splice within the label machine, the label shrinks along with the splice without causing substantial distortion to the printing on the label. Because the splice is clear or transparent, it can be positioned on the outside of the label, over the printing without obliterating same.