SHERIDAN, WYOMING – August 4, 2024 – Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (HEIDELBERG), a global leader in printing solutions, convened its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on July 25, 2024, in Mannheim, Germany. The AGM,attended by shareholders representing a significant portion of the company's equity, focused on the company's strategic direction, financial results for the fiscal year 2023/2024, and future growth prospects.
CEO Jürgen Otto Underscores Path to Profitable Growth
In his inaugural address to shareholders as CEO, Jürgen Otto articulated a vision for HEIDELBERG's continued success, emphasizing the company's robust financial health, technological leadership within the printing industry, and its comprehensive suite of solutions for modern printing applications. Otto highlighted the imperative for sustained growth, stating, "HEIDELBERG must achieve future growth – primarily in terms of revenue. We also require continued cost discipline, particularly in personnel expenditures."
Strategic Initiatives to Drive Revenue Expansion
HEIDELBERG's growth strategy is centered on leveraging its extensive international presence across 170 countries,with a focus on expanding into high-growth markets such as Asia, the United States, and emerging economies. The company is also actively exploring potential strategic partnerships to leverage its global sales and service network for entry into new industry verticals.
Furthermore, HEIDELBERG is committed to expanding its value chain, particularly in the areas of digital and packaging printing. This includes a strategic collaboration with Canon in the burgeoning industrial inkjet printing sector and the continued development of the Boardmaster system for the "Flexible Paper" packaging segment. The company is also evaluating opportunities within its industrial business to penetrate new markets, including high-precision mechanical engineering, automotive, and energy sectors.
Shareholder Approval of New Supervisory Board Appointments
Shareholders voted on a comprehensive agenda, including the election of three shareholder representatives to the Supervisory Board. Ms. Li Li, an incumbent board member, was re-elected, while Ms. Karin Dohm and Mr. Jeppe Frandsen were newly appointed. The overwhelming majority of voting shareholders endorsed the proposed candidates,who bring a wealth of expertise and experience to guide HEIDELBERG's future trajectory.
Additional Resolutions and Forward Momentum
Shareholders approved eight additional resolutions, demonstrating strong support for HEIDELBERG's strategic vision and leadership. The AGM represents a pivotal moment in the company's ongoing efforts to adapt to the evolving printing landscape and capitalize on emerging growth opportunities.