Abstract: A labelling machine has a supply reel, supplying a band carrying labels, a receiving reel for the band after stripping of the labels, a distribution plate placed close to two deviating bars for deviating the band so that the band forms a sharp angle in its path between the first deviating bar, the distribution plate and the second deviating bar, and a band pulling system placed after the second deviating bar. An arm has on one end the first deviating bar, and is mounted for pivoting about a first pin. A lever carries a stop member and the first pin, and is mounted for pivoting about a second pin, fixed on the frame of the machine. A first return means is fastened to the pivoting lever and the frame of the machine and is capable of causing the lever to pivot about the second pin so that the stop member is directly or indirectly applied on the pivoting spindle of the supply reel.