The invention relates to an apparatus for applying labels to containers. In one embodiment according to the invention, the process of applying the labels to the container is carried out by means of a laser unit. In another embodiment according to the invention, a cutting unit is provided for the apparatus, which cutting unit likewise uses a laser and is arranged at least partially inside a cutting roller. In preferred embodiments, the complete application process, i.e. in particular including the bonding of the end sections of the label, is carried out by means of the laser unit.