Heidelberg unveils Cartonmaster CX 145 for large-format folding carton printing

GERMANY – Heidelberger Druckmaschinen (Heidelberg) has expanded its packaging portfolio with the launch of the Cartonmaster CX 145, a very large format sheet-fed offset press designed for advanced folding carton production.

Targeting the growing demand for long-run packaging in the food, beverage, and consumer goods sectors, the Cartonmaster CX 145 features a 105cm x 145cm format.

The new press is based on the Roland Evolution 900 platform and will be fully integrated into Heidelberg’s digital ecosystem, ensuring seamless compatibility with the Prinect workflow and third-party systems.

Through this integration, customers will gain access to real-time performance data via the Heidelberg Customer Portal, enhancing transparency and operational efficiency.

“Our new Cartonmaster CX 145 makes Heidelberg a full-range provider for folding carton printing,” said David Schmedding, Chief Technology and Sales Officer at Heidelberg.

“It’s a milestone that reinforces our commitment to scalable packaging solutions.”

The new offering includes not just the press itself but also a full suite of services—sales, installation, training, maintenance, and consumables.

Orders are now open, with the first installation scheduled for 2026, followed by a global rollout. Heidelberg expects strong interest from key markets in North America, Europe, and China.

Heidelberg CEO Jurgen Otto commented, “Adding the Cartonmaster CX 145 to our portfolio is further proof of our credentials as a system integrator for the end-to-end production of folding cartons.”

The Cartonmaster CX 145 fills the gap between Heidelberg’s existing Speedmaster press formats (50cm x 70cm and 70cm x 100cm) and the larger Boardmaster, offering customers greater flexibility in format and volume.

This launch also builds on Heidelberg’s broader push into AI-powered automation. In late 2024, the company introduced the concept of the “AI-controlled print shop of tomorrow”, aimed at creating fully autonomous, efficient production environments.

Since 2004, Heidelberg has heavily invested in digitalization, robotics, and data-driven technologies to enhance its print solutions.

A notable innovation is PAT, an AI-based consulting tool that has supported contract printers with data-backed workflow recommendations since 2021.

Schmedding also previewed the upcoming release of Prinect Touch Free, an AI-powered upgrade to the Prinect workflow software.

The system will independently determine the most cost-effective print method—offset or digital—and automatically configure all sheet layouts, setting a new standard for intelligent print automation.

Beyond machinery, Heidelberg continues to expand its contract-based digital services and subscription models, where costs are based on actual print volumes.

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