Features Printing Sheetfed Offset
Heidelberg to Phase Out Printmaster GTO 52

Heidelberg announced it will phase out production of its Printmaster GTO 52 presses and instead focus on its Speedmaster SX and SM 52 presses, as well as digital Linoprint machines. The Printmaster GTO 52 will end production in March 2014.

“We are adapting to the new requirements in the small-format segment and are optimizing our portfolio for this market,” stated Stephan Plenz, member of the Management Board responsible for Heidelberg Equipment. “Because our portfolio for this segment comprises offset and digital printing technologies, customers benefit from the close interlinking of both worlds and can boost their competitive edge even further.”

In describing the Printmaster GTO 52, Heidelberg explains it has been a workhorse of the 52-cm format printer since its introduction in 1972. As of 2012, it has sold over 106,000 units worldwide. The GTO, which stands for Grosser Tiegel Offset (large platen offset), received several major updates over the years which increased its capabilities, including options of one to five colours, new dampening systems, and computer remote control for inking and register. Last year the company introduced four models to celebrate the platform’s 40th anniversary.

The company launched its Speedmaster SM 52 press in 1995 and has since sold more than 25,000 units. Heidelberg’s latest SX platform was launched in 2012 in time for drupa, which also saw the company promote its Linoprint C901 and C751 machines (a result of its partnership with Ricoh) as toner options for printers.