HEIDELBERG reinforced its commitment to developing the next generation of print professionals with the launch of the first-ever Print Technology World Championship. Held at the company’s Print Media Center in Wiesloch-Walldorf—the “Home of Print”—the event brought together young printers from Germany, France, Japan, and Switzerland for a two-day skills competition designed to spotlight the appeal and relevance of modern print careers.

Participants were challenged to complete a range of offset and digital print jobs, including finishing, as efficiently and accurately as possible. HEIDELBERG provided state-of-the-art equipment for the competition, including the Speedmaster CX 75 and Speedmaster CX 104 offset presses, as well as the Versafire digital printing system.

After an intense and closely contested event, Lukas Briggen of Switzerland emerged as the overall winner, followed by Germany’s Noah Blaumoser and Japan’s Ayato Ueoka. Briggen praised both the competition and the venue, noting that the “Home of Print” provided exceptional facilities for learning and performance.

“With this competition, HEIDELBERG is emphasizing how important it is for us to promote young talent in our industry, especially given the current challenges companies face in recruiting skilled workers,” said Nick Trabold, Head of the Print Media Center and Service at HEIDELBERG. “We want to send a clear message: printing is relevant, exciting, and offers a strong future for those who join the industry.”

HEIDELBERG and its partners plan to continue expanding initiatives that strengthen the image of the printing sector and encourage new entrants. The success of this inaugural event marks the beginning of a broader effort to showcase print as a dynamic, innovative career path for young professionals around the world.