PBtisk a.s. is among Europe’s leading printing houses specializing in book production with the highest demands on quality, detail, and craftsmanship. In the following interview, we talk about the company’s history, values, technologies, and the future of book printing.

How would you describe the history of your printing house – when was it founded and how has it evolved over time?
PBtisk a.s.: PBtisk a.s. was founded in 1990 by Mr. Pavel Baštář and has focused on complete book production from the very beginning – from prepress and printing to bookbinding and final delivery to customers. Thanks to a stable team, long-term know-how, and continuous investment in technology, PBtisk has gradually become one of the leading book manufacturers in Central Europe. Today, the company employs approximately 180 professionals and has been part of the GZ Media Group since 2018.

What values has the company been built on from the start, and what do you consider your greatest milestone?
PBtisk a.s.: From the outset, we have emphasized print quality, precision, and outstanding service. We specialize in demanding publications that require a meticulous approach at every stage of production. A key milestone for us was the year 2006, when we moved to a new, modern facility built on a greenfield site. We continue to expand it, for example with a photovoltaic power plant and an autonomous paper warehouse, which increase both energy self-sufficiency and operational efficiency.

What do you see as the “Czech signature” in printing – what sets us apart from other countries?
PBtisk a.s.: Czech printing is known for its precision, craftsmanship, and flexibility. We add a personal approach and reliability. This combination of a high technical standard and a human touch is what clients across Europe value in the long term.

How do you perceive the Czech tradition of book craftsmanship, and how do you build on it today?

PBtisk a.s.: We build on the rich Czech tradition of book production by connecting honest craftsmanship with modern technologies. We offer a wide range of bindings – from perfect-bound and sewn to case-bound hardback books – as well as diverse finishing options that give each book a unique character.

What is your main competitive advantage?
PBtisk a.s.: Our greatest competitive advantage is consistently high quality, reliable delivery times, and a partnership-based approach to our customers. Clients do not find just a supplier in us, but a long-term partner.

Which technologies and production processes are typical for you?
PBtisk a.s.: We operate both sheet-fed and web offset printing, enabling us to handle small as well as very large print runs. We offer all types of bookbinding, and the entire production process takes place in one facility, ensuring maximum quality control.

What makes the final product exceptional?
PBtisk a.s.: Finishing plays a significant role – we offer print, dispersion, and spot varnishes, foil stamping, and other enhancement techniques. Every project undergoes careful inspection from data preparation to final packaging.

How do you combine craftsmanship with modern technology?
PBtisk a.s.: We cooperate with leading global machine manufacturers whose equipment monitors quality parameters in real time. At the same time, the entire process is overseen by experienced specialists. For us, technology is not a replacement for craftsmanship, but its extension.

Which innovations do you consider key in recent years?
PBtisk a.s.: We focus on automation and robotization of production. One major project is our semi-autonomous paper warehouse, which enables precise inventory management and more efficient logistics.

How do you approach sustainability?
PBtisk a.s.: We sort and recycle materials, use environmentally friendly inks, varnishes, and cleaning agents, and print primarily on FSC- and PEFC-certified papers. We see sustainability as a natural part of every step of production.

What types of publications do you specialize in?
PBtisk a.s.: We specialize in demanding art, photography, and museum publications, large-format books, and catalogues with high requirements for color accuracy and detail.

What is your experience with international projects?
PBtisk a.s.: We work with clients from France, the Benelux countries, Germany, Austria, and North America. International partners appreciate our open communication, quality, and the family-like atmosphere of the company.

How do you see the future of book printing?
PBtisk a.s.: The printed book has a firm place. What will matter is the ability to maintain quality and stability while responding to technological development.

What are your goals for the future?
PBtisk a.s.: We want to continue investing in technology, developing exports, educating our employees, and growing steadily with respect for traditional craftsmanship.

Why should an international publisher print in the Czech Republic?
PBtisk a.s.: Because in the Czech Republic, we don’t manufacture books – we create them.

Photographs accompanying the article were taken by Denis Ponté, the author of a book printed at PBtisk. He personally attended the press check and the printing process itself.