Industry Insights: Matthews International Evolved From Engraving to Industry 4.0
by Matthews International
Matthews International (Matthews) began its story in a world untouched by electricity or automobiles. Today, we’re helping shape industries powered by automation, energy intelligence, and digital transformation—proving that legacy and innovation aren’t mutually exclusive.
Celebrating 175 years of business in 2025, Matthews marks a rare and remarkable milestone—one that may surprise many, especially in our hometown of Pittsburgh. From our humble beginnings in 1850 as a small engraving business, we’ve quietly grown into a diversified company with two dynamic business segments—Industrial Technologies and Memorialization—while remaining deeply rooted in Pittsburgh’s industrial spirit and resilient character.
As we honor our historic anniversary, we do so with a forward-looking vision, grounded in the core of who we’ve always been—an industrials company that supplies manufacturing and technology solutions for some of the world’s most essential industries. From marking cattle for pioneers heading west and supplying the U.S. military with ammunition identification during wartime, to developing cutting-edge engineering and automation solutions that power the energy transition, accelerate global e-commerce, and support meaningful remembrance, we continue to lean into our core value of “Living the Matthews Spirit.”
“Matthews is driving innovation across industries that shape the future,” says Joe Bartolacci, President and CEO of Matthews. “We’re proud of our roots. Proud of how far we’ve come. And proud of where we’re heading next.”
Industrial Technologies: Powering the Future of Energy and Automation
Matthews Industrial Technologies, one of our two core business segments, is a powerhouse of innovation. This segment focuses on high-performance solutions across a wide range of industries.
Within Industrial Technologies, Matthews offers advanced marking and coding systems through Matthews Marking Systems. These solutions are essential for manufacturers who need to ensure product traceability, regulatory compliance, and brand integrity. Coming soon to market is its innovative matrix inkjet (XIJ) small-character printer, Axian. Meeting the upcoming 2D barcode requirements driven by the GS1 Sunrise 2027, and designed specifically for modern CPG production lines, Axian will deliver crisp, readable codes, graphics, and text at production speed across a wide range of substrates.
Another key business within this segment is Matthews Engineering. This group is an architect of engineering solutions, specializing in the design and manufacture of solutions, through machines and production equipment, for demanding, continuous industrial manufacturing processes. Among its applications, its specialized equipment supports battery electrode production—a critical technology needed to power AI infrastructure and data centers with scalable, efficient, and sustainable energy.
Rounding out the segment is Matthews Automation Solutions, a leading provider of innovative material handling, warehouse execution systems, and light-directed order fulfillment. This business optimizes efficiency and accuracy for the world’s best known distribution centers and manufacturing environments—exceeding the demands of e-commerce and modern supply chains.
Together, these businesses exemplify Matthews’ commitment to helping customers meet the demands of a rapidly evolving industrial landscape.
Memorialization: Crafting Tributes, Creating Possibilities
Our Matthews Memorialization segment is a multi-disciplinary business segment that integrates legacy memorialization expertise with innovative technology and solutions.
Primarily serving funeral homes and cemeteries in the U.S., this segment is best known for their Matthews Aurora™ Funeral Solutions and Matthews Cemetery Products brands—providing customers with high-quality products and strategic business solutions that help them serve today’s families at their time of greatest need. Their innovative technology offerings and merchandising software help customers grow their businesses and elevate the family experience.
“Matthews is driving innovation across industries that shape the future,” says Joe Bartolacci, President and CEO of Matthews. “We’re proud of our roots. Proud of how far we’ve come. And proud of where we’re heading next.”
Also within this segment is Matthews Environmental Solutions, delivering innovative solutions for human and pet cremation to meet the demands of a growing market. At the forefront of cremation advancements, our MPYRE®3 system offers mobile, intuitive functionality with a user-friendly interface, built-in fuel-saving features, and remote monitoring capabilities. Beyond cremation, the company also designs incineration solutions to manage virtually any type of waste, including general, animal, pathological, and industrial.
Matthews Architectural Products, another Memorialization segment business, creates high-quality custom metal plaques, signage, and specialty items. This business is the epitome of artistry in manufacturing, serving sign shops, commercial businesses, and sports halls of fame, among many others.
Extending innovation in this segment is Matthews Additive Technologies, delivering advanced 3D sand printing solutions for complex molds and cores. Companies seeking precision, speed, and scalability in metal casting projects will find Matthews' integrated design, engineering, and project management services invaluable, especially with their ability to reverse engineer parts and simulate casting flow for optimal results.
With its deep heritage, broad capabilities, and commitment to innovation, our Memorialization segment stands at the intersection of tradition and transformation.
Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter
Matthews’ longevity is a testament to our ability to adapt, evolve, and lead—qualities that will continue to define us in the years to come.
With a strong foundation in Pittsburgh, a global footprint, and a clear strategic vision, Matthews is poised to shape the future of both industrial technologies and memorialization. Whether helping manufacturers build smarter factories, accelerating the speed of commerce, or supporting families in moments of remembrance, Matthews remains dedicated to making a meaningful difference.
In the words of our President & CEO, Joe Bartolacci, “We are proud of our history, inspired by our people, and energized by the opportunities ahead. Here’s to the next 175 years.”