Gallus unveils MatteJet technology for premium digital labels

Gallus Group, a subsidiary of Heidelberger Druckmaschinen (Heidelberg), has announced the global commercial availability of its Gallus MatteJet technology for the Gallus One digital label press at the Gallus Wine Label Days event held on 25 March 2025. This matte finishing solution allows converters to produce digital labels inline with a matte finish at the push of a button, encouraging digital adoption in the wine label market.

The global wine label market, currently valued at over USD 3.5-billion and projected to reach USD 5.8-billion by 2033, presents a clear opportunity for converters to enter this growing segment.

First shown as a research project at Labelexpo Americas 2024, Gallus MatteJet was fast-tracked for commercial release due to strong industry interest. It removes the glossy finish common in digital printing, a key obstacle to wider use, and suits markets like wine and spirits that prefer a matte look. Previously, achieving this finish required extra flexo units or post-processing equipment, but MatteJet simplifies the process, cutting costs and time for converters.

Dario Urbinati, CEO of Gallus Group, said the MatteJet offers a practical solution for the industry. He noted that matte finishes in digital inkjet printing once relied on complex methods like flexo units or post-processing with coatings. Now, MatteJet skips these steps, letting customers keep their substrate texture without additional varnishes or equipment maintenance. Building on the Gallus One, launched three years ago to tackle cost issues in digital label production, this technology supports short runs, reduced inventory, sustainability, personalisation, and on-demand printing for premium brands.

The MatteJet works with the Gallus One, fitting both the 340mm printing width and the newer 430mm web width, adding flexibility to Gallus’ System-to-Compose module. This modular setup combines workflow, service, and equipment options, letting converters adjust their technology to market shifts while keeping costs down. It also supports Gallus’ push for ‘smart, connected printing’, moving the industry towards digital processes.

Development happened at the Gallus Experience Centre, set up two years ago as a hub for industry collaboration. Now a base for training, R&D, and partnerships, it worked with GEW, a long-term partner, on the MatteJet. These efforts show how joint work can produce useful solutions for printing.

Urbinati added that customer response has been strong, and he expects the MatteJet to open new possibilities for label businesses.