CHICAGO, October 10, 2004 – Heidelberg USA, in an effort to help printers remain competitive amid a recovering economy, today announced a new quality assurance program that raises the standard for high-performing pre-owned equipment. Called Signature Quality Seal, the Heidelberg program ensures the quality and reliability of Heidelberg pre-owned equipment at prices printers of all sizes can afford. “Heidelberg understands that buying brand new equipment is not always possible, especially with challenging operating budgets and tightening market pressures,” said Henrik Engell-Jensen, vice president of Heidelberg Remarketed Equipment. “Our Signature Quality Seal is Heidelberg’s guarantee that you are buying high-quality equipment that will help you run a more efficient and successful business. We also know this is particularly important at a time when productivity and profitability matter the most.” The Signature Quality Seal indicates that the machine is approved for installation and is warranted by Heidelberg. Heidelberg Signature equipment includes installation and instruction following a process specifically designed to match each customer’s requirements – a unique feature offered by Heidelberg. Every Signature Quality Seal press Heidelberg supplies goes through a stringent refurbishment process carried out by Heidelberg qualified technicians, according to Heidelberg’s exacting standards. After initial inspection, the machine is cleaned, refurbished as required and tested for performance. The result: a high-quality machine that will provide years of service. This rigorous process includes, among other things, the following key steps: Complete check of press and accessories CO2 blast cleaning Cylinder inspection Repair work Inspection and parts replacement using only Heidelberg approved parts Check of press settings and recalibration Installation and instruction Test printing using GATF test forms Final customer acceptance and hand over for production Printers using pre-owned Heidelberg equipment are fully supported by the same committed team that supports the company’s new products. Customers receive the same experience as if they were buying a new Heidelberg product. For example, Heidelberg’s expert technicians have 24-hour access to technical assistance, proprietary tools and training to support pre-owned equipment. They also are able to tap into the extensive Heidelberg Customer Support organization. Prospective Heidelberg Remarketed Equipment customers have access to the widest possible range of presses. Heidelberg has established a global database of machines that are available throughout its entire organization. And, because the equipment originates from its worldwide sales, service and business partners, Heidelberg knows the history behind the equipment that is currently for sale. “Heidelberg represents uncompromising quality, a tradition of excellence and a commitment to our customers,” Engell-Jensen said. “We provide the quality and security customers are looking for when purchasing pre-owned equipment and our new Signature Quality Seal program was derived with our forward-thinking, customer-focused business strategy in mind.”