Continued growth in demand for digital labels is prompting manufacturers to expand their offering. At Labelexpo Europe 2025 in Barcelona, Gallus, the label subsidiary of German manufacturer Heidelberg, is presenting two complementary presses designed to cover both high-volume markets and entry-level needs: the Gallus Five, a high-performance modular hybrid platform, and the Gallus Alpha, a more affordable digital press.
According to projections quoted by Gallus, worldwide label production is set to grow by around 4% a year until 2030. This growth will be driven by sectors such as cosmetics, healthcare and logistics, and supported by shorter print runs and the diversification of product references.
The Gallus Five, a modular hybrid press for large volumes
The Gallus Five is built on the mechanical base of the Labelmaster. It is a hybrid press combining UV inkjet printing (1200 × 1200 DPI) and flexo modules, with speeds up to 100 m/min.
This press is available in two widths, 340 and 430 mm, and offers full-speed in-line finishing, thanks in particular to a new SDC Pro semi-rotary die-cutter.
According to the Swiss manufacturer, its Saphira UV05 UV ink set, developed by Heidelberg, reduces ink consumption while covering up to 95% of the Pantone color chart.
Gallus targets processors in the pharmaceutical, food and cosmetics markets, where compliance, productivity and quality requirements are particularly stringent.
Gallus Alpha, the accessible digital press
At the other end of its portfolio, Gallus launches the Gallus Alpha. This roll-to-roll inkjet press, with a web width of 340 mm, is designed for converters wishing to gradually integrate digital technology into their production.
This machine is available in two configurations: CMYK plus white and hexachrome plus white. Resolution is identical to that of the Gallus Five (1200 × 1200 DPI), but maximum speed is 65 m/min.
The Gallus Alpha is aimed at markets characterized by short production runs and tight time-to-market. The manufacturer presents it as a solution for simplifying workflows, compatible with existing processes, with an emphasis on easy job changeover.
In addition to these hardware launches, Gallus announces the creation of the Gallus Print Academy, a customer training program delivered directly to converters .
