Founded as a family business with a deep respect for printing and bookbinding craftsmanship, HRG Printing House has grown into one of the leading Czech printing companies with a strong European presence. In this interview, we discuss the company’s history, values, technologies, sustainability, international cooperation, and its vision for the future of book printing.
How would you describe the history of HRG – when was the company founded and how has it evolved over time?
HRG: HRG was founded in 1992 in Litomyšl as a family-owned company driven by a passion for printing and book craftsmanship. Starting from humble beginnings in a garage at the family home, we gradually developed into one of the leading printing houses in the Czech Republic. Today, we are a modern printing company with a strong European reach, while continuing to respect our roots and emphasize quality, innovation, and traditional craftsmanship.
What values has HRG been built on from the very beginning?
HRG: Our core values are precision, reliability, openness to new technologies, and respect for craftsmanship. The Czech “signature” in printing lies in the combination of technical accuracy, aesthetic sensitivity, and a long tradition of bookmaking. This attention to detail is often highly appreciated by our international clients.
What makes your printing house exceptional and sets it apart from competitors?
HRG: Our main competitive advantage is the combination of state-of-the-art technology with careful, hands-on craftsmanship. We offer a complete service – from consultation and printing to finishing – and are capable of handling even the most demanding projects with a strong focus on detail and quality.
Which technologies and production processes are typical for HRG?
HRG: We work with the most advanced offset printing machines, including LED-UV technology. We use environmentally friendly inks, certified papers, and offer a wide range of finishing options such as lamination, spot varnishes, drip-off effects, and foil stamping. Our bindery allows for a broad spectrum of bookbinding methods, including hand-crafted bindings.
How do you ensure consistently high quality across all projects?
HRG: Every project undergoes thorough quality control at every stage of production. For us, quality is not only a technical parameter but also an aesthetic commitment – the final product must be functional, precise, and visually compelling. We see modern technology as a tool that supports craftsmanship, not as a replacement for it.
Which innovations have been key for HRG in recent years?
HRG: In recent years, we have focused on digitalizing production processes, implementing environmentally friendly technologies such as a large-capacity photovoltaic power plant, and expanding our digital printing and finishing capabilities.
How do you approach sustainability and environmental responsibility?
HRG: Sustainability is a natural part of our daily operations. We use FSC-certified papers, eco-friendly inks free of heavy metals, sort and recycle waste, and continuously optimize energy consumption. Our commitment is confirmed by certifications such as ISO 9001, ISO 14001, FSC, ECOVADIS, and IWAY. The philosophy of Green Printing is an integral part of how we work.
What kind of know-how are you particularly proud of?
HRG: Our know-how lies in combining finishing techniques, optimizing color reproduction, and selecting the most suitable binding methods. We are able to adapt production to very specific client requirements, resulting in truly unique and distinctive printed products.
What types of publications do you specialize in?
HRG: We specialize in books with high aesthetic value – art publications, photography books, design catalogues, and so-called “beautiful books.” These projects require exceptional precision and sensitivity, which we are proud to provide.
Who are your typical partners and clients?
HRG: We collaborate with leading Czech publishers, graphic studios, and cultural institutions, as well as international partners in Germany, the Netherlands, France, and Switzerland. Each collaboration is an opportunity for mutual growth and further development of our expertise.
Do you have a project that best represents your work?
HRG: One of our most representative projects was a luxury publication for a Dutch museum that received awards for its graphic design and printing quality. It demonstrates that a Czech printing house can successfully compete at the highest international level.
What is your experience with international projects and export markets?
HRG: We have extensive experience exporting across Europe, particularly to Germany, the Netherlands, France, Switzerland, and Austria. International partners are often surprised by our level of craftsmanship, flexibility, and personal approach – a combination of European quality and Czech character.
Where do you see the greatest potential for future international cooperation?
HRG: We see strong potential in the Benelux countries, where expectations for design and quality are particularly high and where our books, catalogues, and art publications are well received.
How do you see the future of book printing in the digital age?
HRG: We believe the future of book printing lies in quality, originality, and experience. Books are increasingly becoming objects of value – not only informational but also aesthetic. Success will depend on offering something that the digital world cannot replace.
What are HRG’s goals and ambitions for the future?
HRG: Our goals include further development of export activities, continued investment in modern technologies, and strong support for education and professional growth. We aim to be not just a printing house, but a long-term partner for creative and demanding projects.
Why should an international publisher choose to print in the Czech Republic?
HRG: Because Czech printing combines precise craftsmanship, modern technology, and a human approach into one exceptional product.