Ray Stanton Avery
| Ray Stanton Avery | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Born | January 13, 1907 Oklahoma, United States |
| Died | December 12, 1997 (aged 90) |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | Pomona College |
| Occupation | Inventor, Entrepreneur |
| Known for | Inventing the self-adhesive label Founder of Avery Dennison |
Ray Stanton Avery, also known as Stan Avery, was an American inventor and entrepreneur who revolutionized the packaging and labeling industry with the invention of the self-adhesive label. As the founder of Avery Dennison Corporation, he pioneered pressure-sensitive adhesive technology that continues to influence global commerce and logistics.[1]
Early Life and Education
Born on January 13, 1907 in Oklahoma, USA, Avery grew up in a modest household. He pursued higher education at Pomona College in California, studying humanities while nurturing a deep interest in mechanical innovation and entrepreneurship.[2]
The Birth of the Self-Adhesive Label
In the midst of the Great Depression, Avery struggled with job stability, which led him to experiment with new ideas. In 1935, while working in a small Los Angeles print shop, he created the world’s first self-adhesive label. Using basic materials like backing sheets and pressure-sensitive adhesive, and parts from a washing machine, he assembled the first label-making machine.
This invention eliminated the need for messy glue and enabled fast, efficient labeling—revolutionizing product packaging and retail branding.
Founding Avery Dennison
That same year, Avery launched Avery Adhesives, which later became Avery Dennison Corporation after merging with Dennison Manufacturing in 1990. His company became the global leader in self-adhesive technology and labeling solutions, serving industries like:
- Retail and Consumer Goods
- Pharmaceuticals and Healthcare
- Food and Beverage
- Logistics and Manufacturing
Through innovative R&D and product diversification, Avery’s company transformed everyday labeling into a high-tech, scalable industry.[3]
Innovation and Legacy
Avery’s legacy extended beyond labels. His company introduced:
- Barcode labeling systems
- RFID tags for inventory tracking
- Advanced pressure-sensitive adhesives
These innovations became foundational to supply chain management, retail logistics, and inventory systems worldwide.
Avery was also a strong advocate for social responsibility and environmental sustainability, integrating those values into his company’s ethos long before it became standard practice.[4]
Recognition and Impact
Ray Stanton Avery received multiple awards for his industrial contributions, including:
- Honors from the packaging and label industries
- Induction into business and innovation halls of fame
- Recognition from Pomona College for his entrepreneurial success
Even after his passing on December 12, 1997, Avery’s influence remains central to the modern labeling industry.
Conclusion
Ray Stanton Avery transformed how the world packages, ships, and sells products. His invention of the self-adhesive label simplified manufacturing and revolutionized branding and logistics. As the founder of a global industry, his work continues to shape business operations and consumer experience across the world. His journey is a powerful reminder of how a simple invention, fueled by determination and creativity, can redefine entire industries.
References
- ↑ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/R._Stanton_Avery
- ↑ https://www.averydennison.com/en/home/company/our-history.html
- ↑ https://www.nytimes.com/1997/12/22/business/r-stanton-avery-90-inventor-and-producer-of-self-sticking-labels.html
- ↑ https://www.ncfp.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/R.-Stanton-Avery-NCFP-1999-r-stanton-avery-1.pdf