In this post, you'll learn why it's crucial to choose an E-Label solution that uses a URL shortener.
David Wippel
Founder of Glasswise
I understand how technical this topic sounds. That's why it matters to me to clarify what it's all about and why it counts for so much in the context of E-Labels. Only then will you fully understand what you're getting into when you buy E-Label software without a URL shortener.
A URL shortener is a tool that transforms long internet addresses into shorter, easier-to-remember versions. A significant advantage is that you can change the target link at any time without having to change the shortened link itself.
In the context of E-Labels, this allows for a switch to another provider without generating new QR codes. This is especially handy if the QR codes are already on the bottles and may have even already been sold. This way, you retain flexibility without being “trapped” in a specific solution.
If you choose an E-Label solution that does not offer the ability to change the target link, you're committing for the long term. This can be risky, especially since E-Labels are used over many years.
Imagine being tied to a particular solution and the provider decides to drastically increase prices. With QR codes already on thousands of bottles, you hardly have the option to easily switch to another software. You'd be stuck and would have to bear the higher costs.
Safe E-Label is an initiative by software providers aiming to establish an EU-wide standard for proper E-Labels. I valued the initiative and therefore incorporated their guidelines into the implementation of Glasswise.
I consciously decided against using URL shorteners like bit.ly to ensure that there is no dependency. With dub.co, I use an open-source solution that guarantees flexibility and independence. The special thing about open source is that the software will remain even if the company behind it ceases to exist. This decision reflects my desire for a durable, secure, and flexible solution.
Choosing a URL shortener is far more than a technical gimmick. It shapes how independent you stay, especially on a long-term commitment like E-Labels. So even if it looks very technical at first glance, take the time to understand it and make a smart choice. It pays off.
Start your free 30-day trial. No credit card required. Set up your first e-labels in minutes and see what a branded wine data platform looks like.
Effortlessly fulfill all labeling requirements for nutritional values and ingredients, compliant with regulations across Europe. This gives you the freedom to focus on what truly matters: your wine.
The EU packaging rules change on 12 August 2026. What PPWR means for wineries, who counts as the manufacturer, what you must do now, and what is not due until 2028.
Six requirements that tell you a professional e-label provider apart before the label goes to print, from availability and GS1 Digital Link to data ownership.
A comprehensive comparison of every major wine e-label provider in Europe. Bottlebooks, U-Label, IMERO, Glasswise, APyS, LITTLEWINE, and more. Pricing models, features, and what matters.
A dynamic marketing QR code lets you point a printed code anywhere and change it any time, without reprinting. Here is how it differs from your e-label QR and where to use it.
Export all bottle formats at once, include QR codes in your export, and more improvements to the Excel export.
APyS bundles e-labels into their wine ERP system. Glasswise offers e-labels independently. Here is why that difference matters for your winery.
How the prestigious Vinea Wachau wine association chose Glasswise to provide compliant, branded e-labels for over 100 member wineries in one of Austria's most renowned wine regions.
An honest comparison of Glasswise and Bottlebooks for wine e-labels. We break down pricing, design, the consumer-capture layer, data ownership, and how to switch.
Comparing Glasswise and U-Label by Scantrust for wine e-labels. We look at design, data ownership, features, and what matters for independent wineries vs. large operations.
Everything Austrian wineries need to know about e-label requirements in 2026. EU regulation compliance, QR code obligations, and how to set up your digital wine labels.
Your physical wine label is a work of art. Your e-label should not be a generic template. Here is why e-label design matters and how custom design strengthens your brand.
Per-label pricing seems affordable at first. But as your wine portfolio grows, the costs add up quickly. Here is a comparison with flat-rate pricing.
IMERO e-label.eu is an established EU e-label platform. Here is how Glasswise compares on brand design, data ownership, marketing QR codes, and switching.
Worried about switching e-label providers because of your printed QR codes? Here is how to migrate without reprinting a single label.
Weinlabel.at joined Glasswise earlier this year. After the former operator retired, all users and labels were migrated to Glasswise to ensure long-term stability and ongoing development.
Glasswise, the Austrian market leader in digital wine labeling, acquires the Croatian E-Label system from Craft Technology. This strategic acquisition enables Craft Technology to focus on its core product while Glasswise expands its offering and gains access to the Croatian market. A win for winemakers across Europe.
Free e-label solutions may sound tempting, but what are the hidden costs and risks? Learn why sustainable solutions are crucial for long-term e-label compliance and what questions you should ask your provider.
This overview summarizes all changes and updates to our application in February 2025.
This overview summarizes all the changes and updates to our application in January 2024.
This guide shows you as a winemaker the five key factors in choosing an e-label tool, including legal compliance, user-friendliness, and flexibility to provide value beyond legal requirements.
The EU Commission has presented important changes and clarifications to wine labeling regulations in a recent announcement. This post summarizes the key elements of the new regulations, including the placement of mandatory information on labels and specific requirements for QR codes and ingredient lists.
'Scan with Glasswise,' an innovative feature that maximizes your QR code's potential. Learn how you can legally add extra value to your winery and directly connect your wines with customers.
Why I developed Glasswise, my vision, and what's next: Learn more about the future plans and goals of this project.