The Gallus Group, a subsidiary of Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (HEIDELBERG), has announced the global commercial availability of its new matting process, Gallus MatteJet, for the Gallus One digital label press. The technology allows printers to produce digital labels with a matte finish inline, eliminating the need for additional finishing steps.
Initially introduced as a research breakthrough at Labelexpo Americas 2024, the technology was accelerated to market due to strong demand. Gallus MatteJet addresses a key challenge in digital label printing—the glossy finish typical of inkjet technology—offering an alternative for high-end markets such as wine and spirits. With the premium wine and spirits label market valued at over $3.5 billion and expected to reach $5.8 billion by 2033, the development presents new opportunities for printers.
Dario Urbinati, CEO of the Gallus Group, stated, “Gallus and HEIDELBERG are pleased to announce the market launch of the Gallus MatteJet technology and to present the associated possibilities. Until now, a matte surface for digital inkjet printing was only possible through integrated flexographic units or additional finishing machines, adding complexity and cost. By eliminating these coatings, customers can now achieve efficiency gains while maintaining the surface texture of the desired substrate.”
The Gallus MatteJet is designed for seamless integration with the Gallus One digital label press and is available in both 340 mm and newly expanded 430 mm print widths. It supports the company’s modular “System to Compose” concept, which allows printers to adapt their technology to market demands.
Urbinati added, “Three years ago, we removed the TCO barrier to profitable digital labels with the Gallus One. With Gallus MatteJet, we now offer all the benefits of digitally printed matte labels—short runs, reduced inventory, improved sustainability, personalization, and on-demand printing.”
The technology was developed in collaboration with GEW, a long-time partner of Gallus. It was also a product of the Gallus Experience Center, a hub for industry collaboration, training, and innovation. The introduction of Gallus MatteJet aligns with HEIDELBERG’s broader strategy as a total solution provider across printing technologies, reinforcing Gallus’ role in the company’s growth in packaging and label printing.