Glossy flyer paper is one of the most popular materials used in print marketing today—but is it really worth the extra shine? At Print It ZA, we’ve worked with countless South African businesses who’ve asked the same question. From local start-ups to national franchises, the answer is almost always the same: glossy flyer paper doesn’t just look good—it performs.
If you’re considering flyers for your next campaign, event, or product promotion, here’s what leading brands across South Africa have experienced with glossy finishes—and why you might want to do the same.
First impressions count: why the look and feel of flyers matters
In marketing, appearance is everything. When a customer sees your flyer for the first time, the design, colour, and paper quality shape their impression of your brand. Glossy flyer paper adds depth and vibrancy to your visuals that matte paper simply can’t match.
At Print It ZA, we use premium-coated stock that reflects light beautifully without distorting the colour. This makes your reds bolder, your blues deeper, and your images pop with crisp clarity—even from a distance.
Glossy flyer paper for durability: lasting longer in South African conditions
In South Africa’s climate, durability matters. Flyers often end up being handed out at traffic lights, packed into shopping bags, or placed outdoors where the sun and wind can take a toll. Glossy flyer paper provides a protective layer that resists smudging, tearing, and moisture better than uncoated alternatives.
That extra layer doesn’t just preserve your design—it protects your reputation. Your message stays intact for longer, whether you’re targeting customers in Johannesburg or hosting an event in Durban.
Brands love the professional feel—and the results speak for themselves
We’ve printed flyers for industries ranging from retail and real estate to education and hospitality. One common theme? When businesses switch from standard paper to glossy flyer paper, they often see better engagement.
Many of our clients report higher pickup rates, increased social shares (thanks to the visual appeal), and more conversions at pop-up events and expos. From brochure-style flyers to single-page promos, glossy finishes elevate even the simplest designs.
What South African businesses often ask about glossy flyer paper
Is glossy flyer paper more expensive than matte?
It can be slightly more expensive, but the improved visual impact and durability often make it a smarter investment—especially for high-volume marketing.
Can I print on both sides of glossy flyer paper?
Yes. We offer double-sided printing options with consistent coating on both sides. Perfect for event schedules, service menus, and feature-rich product flyers.
Is it eco-friendly?
We provide eco-conscious coated papers upon request, offering you a balance between quality and sustainability. Just ask us for our greener alternatives.
Choosing the right GSM for strength and presentation
Not all glossy flyer paper is created equal. GSM (grams per square metre) plays a major role in how a flyer feels and behaves. Lower GSM stock may be too flimsy for busy environments, while higher GSM paper adds weight and structure that impress.
Print It ZA recommends 130gsm to 170gsm for flyers that need to travel, be handled often, or hold up in handouts at large gatherings. We’ll help you choose the best GSM for your purpose—whether you’re creating training guides or showcasing promotions.
The shine of quality: how glossy coating improves colour performance
Glossy flyer paper has a high-sheen finish that enhances ink adhesion and makes colours appear richer. The difference is especially noticeable in photo-heavy designs and product-driven flyers where accuracy matters.
That’s why Print It ZA uses print technology calibrated specifically for glossy stock. Our inks and coatings are designed to work together—delivering vibrant, fade-resistant results ideal for catalogue-style campaigns and promotional launches.
When to use glossy over matte—and when not to
Glossy flyer paper is perfect for advertising, events, product launches, and any campaign where visual impact is critical. It’s especially popular for take-home flyers, handouts, and inserts that need to grab attention quickly.
However, for content that requires heavy reading, matte may offer less glare and better readability—like books or textbook printing where reader comfort is the priority. We’ll guide you to the right finish depending on your audience and objective.
Pairing glossy flyers with other print tools for a full campaign
Glossy flyer paper works even better when combined with other high-impact print assets. Consider adding matching booklets or pop-up banners to create a consistent visual identity across your marketing touchpoints.
At Print It ZA, we handle every step—from design and layout to printing and delivery—ensuring your entire campaign stays aligned and on-brand.
What brands are saying: real feedback from our glossy flyer clients
“Our retail launch in Pretoria used glossy flyers printed by Print It ZA, and we saw nearly double the turnout compared to our previous event.”
“The colours really stood out, and people kept the flyers even after the event. That wasn’t happening when we used matte before.”
“After trying glossy for our educational open day, we immediately noticed a better response. Parents mentioned how professional our flyers looked.”
This kind of feedback is why we stand behind glossy flyer paper for almost every outward-facing campaign.
Contact us today, Print It ZA, we deliver Printing Best.
