HEIDELBERG , GERMANY—  Heidelberger's first quarter saw significant improvements in both sales and operating profitability, thanks to the continued recovery of the markets in almost all regions. Heidelberg's  sales figures between April and June grew by 20 percent year on year to €530 million ($685 million CDN) . This significant increase can largely be attributed to the rise in the number of new machines delivered. The regions of Europe and North America recorded particularly positive developments. By contrast, results in China were sometimes weaker compared to the previous year, due to the extensive lockdowns. Thanks to higher sales and the ongoing reduction of structural costs, Heidelberg significantly improved its operating result  in the first quarter, recording an increase of €20 million to €35 million. In addition, it was possible to pass on sustained increases in material costs.