Heidelberg and Gallus have unveiled a groundbreaking matte finishing technology for digital
inkjet printing, called Gallus MatteJet. This innovation introduces fast, cost-effective in-line
premium matte finishing, a feature previously unattainable with digital inkjet, specifically
catering to the wine and spirits label market for the first time.
Developed at Gallus' innovation hub, the Gallus Experience Center in St. Gallen, the
MatteJet technology represents a significant advancement in inkjet printing. It provides a
premium matte finish, addressing a long-standing challenge for digital inkjet printing, which
has typically produced glossy finishes. This limitation has been a barrier to its adoption in
premium segments like wine and spirits, where a sophisticated matte look is often expected.
Traditionally, achieving this effect required conventional printing methods or post-processing
with matte varnishes, adding complexity and cost.
MatteJet, a product of Heidelberg's comprehensive printing solutions that span toner, inkjet,
offset, and flexo technologies, offers a seamless, efficient solution controlled through a
common Prinect workflow. This new in-line finishing process eliminates the need for
additional post-processing equipment, streamlining production for labels and packaging in
premium markets.
Dario Urbinati, CEO, Gallus Group commented, “The development of Gallus MatteJet
technology marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of inkjet printing, opening up a world of
new opportunities and ultimately, completely transforming the very foundation of what’s
possible with inkjet technology. By unlocking matte finishing for digital inkjet, we’ll be able to
make an entirely new market segment accessible to converters without the sizeable
investment into separate offset solutions – boosting profitability and exemplifying our
commitment to building a new era of flexibility that will enable our industry to thrive longterm.”
“The new MatteJet technology is revolutionary not just in the opportunities it opens up, but
also in what its development represents,” adds Urbinati. “We opened the Gallus Experience
Center with a vision for a dynamic, collaborative industry hub that would drive significant,
meaningful industry change. Gallus MatteJet exemplifies and is testament to the kinds of
transformative developments that can be achieved when you combine this vision with realworld
insights as to what the market needs today, and of course the essential resources and
expertise of our parent company, HEIDELBERG. MatteJet truly embodies our long-term
mission and brings the smart, connected print future within touching distance.”. |
