SHERIDAN, WYOMING – November 4, 2024 – HEIDELBERG, a leading name in the printing industry, is revolutionizing the future of print with its innovative AI-controlled print shop solutions. This cutting-edge technology is the culmination of 20 years of dedicated digitalization and 5 years of pioneering work in artificial intelligence.
Since 2004, HEIDELBERG has been at the forefront of networking machines and systems in print shops around the globe. Today, an impressive 13,000 units worldwide are connected to the HEIDELBERG Cloud, underscoring the company's commitment to digital transformation.
"What began 20 years ago at HEIDELBERG with the connection of the first printing press to the Internet has opened up unimagined technical possibilities. Today we are planning the AI-controlled print shop of tomorrow, which can run shifts autonomously at comparatively low cost. And HEIDELBERG will provide important building blocks for this with software, machines and robotics." says Dr. David Schmedding, Chief Technology and Sales Officer at HEIDELBERG.
Investing in the Future of Print
HEIDELBERG has consistently invested a three-digit million euro amount in digital processes, products, and services. This dedication to innovation has positioned the company as a pioneer in mechanical engineering and solidified its technological leadership within the industry.
"Our company has shaped the printing industry over the past 20 years and far beyond, and will continue to do so in the future based on our technological expertise," says Schmedding.
AI-Powered Solutions for Enhanced Efficiency
HEIDELBERG's commitment to AI is evident in its innovative tools and software. The AI-based consulting tool "PAT," launched in 2021, provides contract printers with user-friendly recommendations to optimize their workflows. The company is also set to release the latest version of its renowned workflow software, Prinect Touch Free, featuring cutting-edge AI capabilities.
This cloud-based application will intelligently determine the most efficient and cost-effective printing process – offset or digital – and independently calculate all potential layouts on the print sheet. These advancements pave the way for the AI-controlled print shop of the future, marking a significant leap in automation and efficiency.
A Total Solutions Provider
Since drupa 2024, HEIDELBERG has emerged as a total solution provider for print shops, offering a comprehensive range of modern printing processes and corresponding machines, from toner to inkjet and offset to flexographic printing.
All these machines are seamlessly integrated through the Prinect workflow software, which orchestrates all work processes from the initial print job to the finished product. This integrated approach ensures a smooth and streamlined printing process.
"HEIDELBERG is well equipped for the future and is currently benefiting from a high order backlog following the drupa printing press trade fair." says Schmedding.
Embracing Digital Business Models
Beyond its cutting-edge printing presses, HEIDELBERG also operates a contract business offering digital services and output-based subscription models. In these models, customers pay based on the number of sheets printed, offering a flexible and cost-effective solution.
The implementation of these digital business models is made possible by the fully digitized and mapped workflow for print shops, demonstrating HEIDELBERG's commitment to adapting to the evolving needs of the industry.
Celebrating 20 Years of Digitalization
To commemorate its two decades of leadership in digital innovation, HEIDELBERG has released a white paper titled "Digital revolution in the printing industry - 20 years of digital innovations and smart manufacturing at Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG." This document highlights the key milestones achieved from 2004 to 2024, showcasing the company's unwavering dedication to transforming the printing industry through digitalization.