Heidelberg’s second iteration of Shift is set to take place on 7 October 2026, at the company’s “Home of Print” in Wiesloch-Walldorf, Germany. The event will focus on the digital transformation of the printing industry, automated production processes, robotics, end-to-end digital printing innovations.

Following its first edition, Shift has established itself as an international Heidelberg forum for process digitisation and AI-driven hybrid print production, combining digital and offset printing. The event brings together presentations, user case studies and networking opportunities for CEOs, executives and decision-makers in printing companies, alongside digitisation specialists from around the world.

The first day will examine key industry trends and challenges, with international speakers from printing and technology companies and consulting firms sharing practical insights into process digitisation projects. Topics are expected to include data-driven production, workflow automation, hybrid printing environments, robotics and the use of artificial intelligence in business and production processes.

Several Heidelberg customers will also discuss their experiences with digital transformation projects, including Meinders & Elstermann. The company is a pilot user of Prinect Touch Free in combination with the Jetfire 50 industrial digital printing system. It will report on its implementation of the new workflow and the efficiency gains achieved so far.

On the second day, participants will see digital print production at the Heidelberg Print Media Center at the company’s Wiesloch-Walldorf site. The programme will focus on industrial digital printing applications using the Jetfire 50 with inline finishing and the Jetfire 75, both controlled by Prinect Touch Free. Other areas will include intelligent postpress processing, data analytics and automation concepts for integrated hybrid production combining digital and offset printing.

The programme will also feature live demonstrations, breakout sessions and presentations from partner companies.

“Without digitalisation, automation, and artificial intelligence, sustainable economic success in the printing industry will be virtually impossible in the future,” said Dr David Schmedding, CSO at Heidelberg. “Companies that consistently invest in these technologies today will secure decisive competitive advantages. Shift 2026 uses concrete, real-world examples to illustrate how this transformation can be successfully implemented. Visitors will also gain valuable insights, new perspectives, and the opportunity to exchange ideas with leading industry experts.”

Heidelberg said Shift is intended to provide an industry platform for representatives to examine real-world applications, exchange experiences and see emerging print production technologies in operation.