KENNESAW, Ga. -- Heidelberg USA has announced that Graphics Innovations of Richmond, Va. is the first U.S. customer to extend its Systemservice 36plus program, following three years of successful results. The company, one of the first to experience the benefits of Systemservice 36plus, has chosen to partner with Heidelberg Systemservice for an additional two years by purchasing the Heidelberg Partner Program Full Service Agreement. The initial suite of services was included with the purchase of the shop's new 6-color Speedmaster SM 102 press more than three years ago.
 
"Our equipment is performing better than ever, and we've reduced operating costs while increasing productivity across the board," said Pat Patterson, the company's president. "Heidelberg's Systemservice 36plus has provided unmatched support for our business. I am confident that our investments are fully protected, which is rare in this uncertain market."
 
As his initial three-years under Systemservice 36plus neared its end, Patterson compared the cost of extending coverage under the Heidelberg Partner Program Full Service Agreement to the potential cost of experiencing unplanned downtime, paying for essential spare parts and outsourcing service technicians. After weighing the options, the decision was an easy one.
 
"Before installing the SM 102 with Systemservice 36plus, we had never used Heidelberg service," Patterson said. "Now, the thought of using anything other than Heidelberg service is out of the question. We feel that Heidelberg is truly a partner that has invested in our success."
 
Systemservice 36plus, which was introduced at PRINT 2005, includes 36 months of intelligent support services, annual maintenance inspections and full coverage of parts. Additional benefits of the 36-month service package include:
 
- Repair parts;
- Repair labor and travel, including expenses;
- Thorough Heidelberg Maintenance Inspection by factory-trained service technicians, who often are able to identify and correct issues before a critical situation disrupts production; and
- Access to a comprehensive array of Intelligent Support Services. Expert technical support is only one phone call away, using a special Direct Priority Access telephone number. Around-the-clock Expert Support Team coverage is available through our Global Expert Support Team, which uses advanced troubleshooting tools like Remote Diagnostics to achieve fast problem resolution and reduce downtime.

"More and more print shops are realizing the benefits of today's service options in protecting their investments, especially in a down economy," said Michael Reschauer, Director, Business Development, Systemservice, Heidelberg USA. "Maintaining equipment on a regular basis is imperative to preventing costly downtime and meeting customer demands. Graphics Innovations is a good example of the positive impact that proactive and efficient service can have across an entire operation."
 
The team at Graphics Innovations collaborates with Heidelberg's Expert Service Team on a regular basis, determining what service and maintenance needs will help the company reach its business goals. "Whether it's a simple phone call or an in-house inspection by a field technician, we trust the Heidelberg service team to keep our equipment and software up-to-date and ready for any challenges we may face," Patterson said.
 
Graphics Innovations is an all-Heidelberg shop. In addition to the new SM 102 perfecting press, the company operates a Suprasetter A74 platesetter with Saphira thermal plates, POLAR cutter, Stahlfolder RFH 82 folder and an existing SM 102 perfector. The company produces general commercial work, including direct mail pieces, envelopes, newsletters, brochures and photo cards, for a variety of customers in the Richmond area. Founded in November 2003, the company employs more than 20 people.
 
For more information on Heidelberg's Systemservice offerings, please visit www.us.heidelberg.com <http://www.us.heidelberg.com/> .