The New Chapter in Book Printing: How CHROMOEDGE is Redefining the Market

For centuries, books have been judged by their covers. But a quiet revolution is emerging—one that shifts attention to their edges. A Swiss firm, Matti Technology, is at the front of this transformation, using cutting-edge print technology to turn the often-overlooked book edges into a canvas for creativity and commercial opportunity.

At the heart of this innovation lies ChromoEdge, the world’s first fully industrialised book-edge printing solution. Capable of printing vibrant, high-quality imagery on all three edges of a book at industrial speeds, the technology is poised to redefine publishing aesthetics and production economics.

Historically, book-edge printing has been a labour-intensive niche, with manual processes limiting productivity. Conventional techniques could process around 400 books per hour, reliant on expensive dye-based inks and high personnel costs. But ChromoEdge disrupts this model entirely. It offers an automated, high-viscosity ink system that seamlessly integrates into existing production lines, achieving an astonishing speed of 4,000 books per hour—a tenfold increase over traditional methods.

‘The challenge was clear,’ explains Martin Letzner, Chief Sales Officer at Matti Technology. ‘We wanted to build an industrial system that not only enhanced efficiency but also elevated the visual appeal of books in an increasingly digital age.’

Letzner’s point touches on a broader issue: the book industry’s fight for relevance. With audiobooks and e-readers gaining traction, physical books require reinvention to maintain consumer appeal. Edge printing, once a niche embellishment, is emerging as a powerful differentiator, transforming books from mere reading materials into decorative objects.

The economic rationale for ChromoEdge is compelling. Publishers, book printers, and retailers are seeking ways to add value in a hyper-competitive market. The ability to print vivid designs, gradients, or even marketing messages on book edges presents a new revenue stream.

This technology holds particular appeal for special editions, luxury publications, and bespoke corporate projects. Publishers can use book edges to reinforce branding, create collectable series, or even integrate scannable QR codes that link to multimedia content. ‘We see ChromoEdge as more than just a decorative tool,’ says Letzner. ‘It’s a marketing asset, an artistic medium, and a commercial advantage.’

With its efficiency, ChromoEdge also significantly lowers operational costs. The fully automated process requires minimal manual intervention, reducing labour costs while increasing output. Additionally, its ink technology ensures high durability and lightfastness, addressing long-standing concerns about edge printing’s practicality.

What makes ChromoEdge distinct is its ability to cater to both mass-market and premium segments. The technology is flexible enough to accommodate various book formats, making it suitable for everything from school textbooks to luxury coffee-table books.

In an era where personalisation is a key driver of consumer engagement, ChromoEdge offers unparalleled customisation options. Booksellers can design thematic edge prints for literary festivals, anniversary editions, or seasonal collections. Even academic and corporate publishing houses can leverage edge printing to distinguish their titles.

Beyond individual books, ChromoEdge can transform how bookstores display their inventory. ‘Imagine walking into a shop where the book edges form a collective design—perhaps an abstract motif or a city skyline,’ Letzner suggests. ‘Suddenly, bookshelves become curated art installations.’

Image for Illustration Purposes Only

While ChromoEdge is leading the charge, the question remains: will edge printing become an industry norm, or will it remain a premium feature? Letzner is optimistic. ‘Traditionally, book edges were a blank canvas, an afterthought. But now, they are a statement.’

The shift mirrors broader trends in print and packaging. As digital content dominates, tangible products must work harder to captivate consumers. Much like the rise of luxury packaging in retail, book-edge printing taps into the psychological appeal of exclusivity and craftsmanship.

Yet, widespread adoption will depend on cost and scalability. Currently, ChromoEdge is positioned as a high-end solution, targeting publishers willing to invest in differentiation. Over time, as production costs decline and demand grows, edge printing may become as common as dust jackets or foil stamping.

Matti Technology is already looking ahead. The first-generation ChromoEdge system is making inroads, but the company envisions further enhancements. ‘We see potential for additional colours, improved drying systems, and even integration with variable data printing,’ Letzner reveals.

One of the most promising developments is the possibility of ‘book-of-one’ printing, where edge designs are customised at an individual level. This could be a game-changer for self-publishing and direct-to-consumer models, allowing authors and brands to create uniquely personalised editions at scale.

For now, ChromoEdge remains a beacon of innovation in an industry often accused of being slow to change. As it gains traction, it may not just redefine how books look—it could reshape how they are marketed, sold, and even perceived in the digital age.

The book, it seems, has found an exciting new edge!