WAN-IFRA, the World Association of News Publishers, has announced the opening of registrations for the International Color Quality Club (ICQC) Contest. Organised by the World Printers Forum, this competition promotes excellence in print quality for newspapers and magazines, aligned with ISO 12647, ISO 2846, and WAN-IFRA standards.
The contest evaluates participants based on a Cuboid quality test patch as well as visual print quality (GPQ), both assessed by a panel of experts. Publishers and printers can register under any of the five categories, depending on the print production processes they use. These include Category 1: Cold-set web-offset newspapers printed on standard newsprint (ISO12647-3), Category 2: Heat-set/UV offset newspapers printed on standard newsprint, Category 3: Heat-set/UV offset newspapers printed on GNP/SC/LWC paper, Category 4: Custom standard printing (e.g., tinted paper), and Category 5: Magazines in any printing process.
REGISTRATION closes on 5 May 2026. Participants can also explore highlights from previous editions in the Hall of Fame.
“This year’s edition introduces numerous exciting elements, including a fresh change in the process and no restriction on the GSM for participation,” says Sarah Lesting, Director, World Printers Forum, WAN-IFRA.
The ICQC 2026-2028 has officially unveiled a redesigned Cuboid test target patch, marking a significant leap in print quality control. Developed through direct feedback from publishers and printers worldwide, the new layout transitions from four rows to three, aligning with the contest’s modern approach. This geometric adoption supports faster alignment and measurements with modern print requirements.
The official report and results will be released by 31 July 2026. Successful participants will receive a Color Quality Club member certificate valid for two years and an inclusion in the ‘Winnerbook’, showcasing all winning publications. Furthermore, consistent top performers will be given recognition in the Star and Millennium Clubs. Qualified winners will also be recognised at the Indian Printers Summit 2026 (9-10 September 2026) in Pune, India, followed by the World Printers Summit (4-6 October 2026) in Rotterdam, Netherlands.
