Small- & Medium-Format Sheetfed Presses -- Pressing into 2004

The smaller format market will continue to play an important role in the overall production chain for printing, concludes Chris Curran, Heidelberg's manager of marketing communications.

"CTP systems sized around the (small) format continue to evolve and get more affordable, both in terms of hardware and plate materials," he remarks. "Increased use of digital information, better networking, and machines with high automation will let printers with this equipment compete and win jobs with low run lengths. And with the high speed of these smaller presses, and productivity of options like perfecting and in-line coating, they can still be competitive with the larger presses at surprisingly long runs."