Gallus Group, a subsidiary of Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (HEIDELBERG), is proud to announce the global commercial availability of Gallus MatteJet at the Gallus Wine Label Days. This cutting-edge matte finishing technology for the Gallus One enables converters to produce high-quality digital labels with a sophisticated matte finish at the touch of a button, significantly enhancing the adoption of digital solutions within the burgeoning wine label sector.
Initially introduced as a groundbreaking research advancement at Labelexpo Americas 2024, Gallus quickly accelerated the development of Gallus MatteJet due to robust market demand. This innovative solution replaces the traditional glossy finish prevalent in digitally printed labels, which has historically posed a barrier to digital label adoption. Gallus MatteJet opens doors for broader implementation in labels and packaging, especially in premium segments such as wine and spirits, where brands seek an elegant matte finish. With the global wine label market valued at over $3.5 billion and projected to reach $5.8 billion by 2033, this technology offers converters an exciting opportunity to tap into a lucrative revenue stream associated with food and drink packaging.1
Dario Urbinati, CEO of Gallus Group, states: “Gallus and HEIDELBERG are delighted to announce the commercial launch of Gallus MatteJet technology and the opportunity it represents. Until now, matte finishing for digital inkjet has only been possible through the addition of integrated flexo units or post-processing equipment to apply matte coatings—adding time, complexity, and cost. By eliminating the need for these varnishes, customers can benefit from increased efficiency while preserving the surface texture of their chosen substrates. Moreover, this innovation reduces the necessity for tooling and cleaning of coating machinery, resulting in significant overall advantages.
“Three years ago, with the launch of the Gallus One, we addressed the TCO barrier for profitable digital labels. With MatteJet, we’ve further enhanced this concept, delivering all the benefits of digitally printed matte labels to premium brands—including short runs, reduced inventory, improved sustainability, personalization, and on-demand production. These strategic advances reflect our dedication to bridging the gap between the vast potential of digital technologies and the current realities faced by businesses in our industry. By making the transition to digital solutions more accessible and profitable, we further support the industry’s move towards ‘smart, connected printing,’ effectively completing the path for premium digital labels.”
Designed for seamless integration with the Gallus One digital label press, Gallus MatteJet can be utilized in both the 340mm and newly-expanded 430mm web widths. This enhancement aligns with the System to Compose concept, boosting performance and adaptability for businesses. By offering a modular blend of workflow, service options, and equipment, System to Compose ensures compatibility across Gallus’ leading product lines, enabling converters to effectively respond to changing market demands for sustainable food and drink packaging while ensuring long-term success.
Gallus MatteJet also represents the latest development from the Gallus Experience Center, established two years ago as a collaborative industry nexus. Now recognized as a key hub for education, training, R&D, and industry innovation, the Center has been instrumental in numerous pivotal technology and business partnerships, uniting industry leaders. Notably, one of Gallus’ longest-standing partners, GEW, contributed to the development of Gallus MatteJet, highlighting the power of collaboration in driving industry advancements and delivering practical solutions that propel the sector forward.
Dario Urbinati concludes, “The enthusiastic response to Gallus MatteJet from our customers has been incredible, and we are thrilled to share in their excitement. We believe MatteJet exemplifies the innovation, expertise, and customer focus that Gallus and HEIDELBERG bring to the industry. We eagerly anticipate its impact on the market and the opportunities it creates for label businesses.”
The introduction of this new digital technology underscores HEIDELBERG’s commitment to providing comprehensive solutions for modern printing processes—from toner to inkjet, offset printing to flexo, all coordinated through a unified Prinect workflow. As a vital subsidiary, Gallus continues to play a crucial role in HEIDELBERG’s growth strategy for the packaging and label market, ensuring its significance in the future of culinary and beverage packaging.
For more information, visit www.gallus-group.com
