a label applicator is of the type for separating labels from a continuous carrier strip and applying the labels to an object positioned at the applicator . the applicator includes a frame , a supply roll operably mounted to the frame for supplying the carrier strip having the labels thereon and a separator for removing the labels from the carrier strip . the applicator includes a rewind roll operably mounted to the frame for rewinding the carrier strip after the labels have been removed therefrom . the supply and rewind rolls are configured to move the carrier strip through the applicator . a rewind assembly has a motor , a pivoting arm and a sensing assembly cooperating with the pivoting arm . the sensing assembly is adapted to sense the presence or absence of a sensed element mounted on the pivoting arm as the arm moves from a first home position to a position other than the home position . the sensor is operably connected to the rewind roll motor to actuate the motor upon movement of the arm toward the home position .