Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (Heidelberg) used drupa 2012 as the launchpad for its new Speedmaster SX models that combine the cutting-edge technology of the Speedmaster XL class with the tried-and-tested platform of the Speedmaster SM series to form a new performance class. Having sold over 40,000 printing units, the Speedmaster SM 74 is the most successful press in the medium format sector worldwide. Building on this success, the SX machines can be configured to match the business models of the particular print shop - ranging from low-automation presses to high-productivity, fully-automated machines. 

Sparn Druck from Magden in Switzerland is also placing its trust in the new Speedmaster SX platform, having ordered an eight-color Speedmaster SX 74 perfecting press with coating unit and the fully automatic AutoPlate Pro plate changer at drupa 2012. "This machine ties in perfectly with our business model. We predominantly produce advertising materials in short and medium-sized runs, but do handle longer runs as well," says owner and Managing Director Patrick Sparn. "This is our first eight-color press. It will enable us to double our productivity. Once through the press is all it takes - complete with coating. AutoPlate Pro delivers extremely short makeready times, ensuring fast customer deliveries," adds Sparn. The print shop's eleven employees produce small booklets for the pharmaceutical industry and advertising materials such as periodicals, brochures, annual reports, and travel brochures for a discerning customer base in Switzerland. 

Sparn Druck has always placed its trust in Heidelberg. The company started with an Original Heidelberg platen press ("Tiegel"), which is still used today for special work such as creasing, perforating, and die cutting. Further Heidelberg machines were added in 1983 when the print shop switched to offset printing. Today, a new building houses a two-color Printmaster PM 52 press and a five-color Speedmaster SM 74 perfecting press with coating unit.