SGI Dubai 2017, the Middle East’s largest sign and graphic imaging show, opened in Dubai, UAE yesterday showcasing innovative printers and digital signage panels worth over Dh230 million($62.6 million).

The 20th edition of the event was inaugurated by Mona Ghanem Al Marri, director general of the Government of Dubai Media Office (GDMO). The show is being held at the Dubai World Trade Center from January 15 to 17.

Following the inauguration, Al Marri surveyed the latest technologies showcased by international signage and printing companies at the event. She expressed her appreciation for the development of new solutions and technologies in this sector at a time when the UAE is showing strong momentum for economic growth.

She said the printing and advertising sectors are steadily expanding, driven by the rapid development of the national economy and the growing needs of the private sector for innovative solutions in these sectors. New technologies have created fresh benchmarks for excellence by expanding the scope for creativity and innovation, she added.

Major brands including Agfa Graphics, Canon Middle East, Flex-Europa, Signtrade, Jacky’s will be unveiling some of their latest innovations at the show.

Abdul Rahman Falaknaz, chairman of event organisers International Expo-Consults (IEC) said: “The 20th edition of SGI Dubai show will be our largest yet, as we celebrate 20 years of bringing together the leaders and innovators of the industry.

“The signage and printing industry in the UAE and the GCC are currently scaling the growth trajectory, due to the large investments by the governments in infrastructure. Furthermore, the growth in large retail establishments and mall are also instrumental in driving this market.  As always we are here to support the industry and the stakeholders within the industry through our show. Some best kept innovative industry secrets were unveiled today and will further drive the industry.”

Being the largest exhibition of its kind in the Middle East, this event is a one-stop-shop where the industry can interact with sign makers, print and production manufacturers, architects, media agencies, real-estate developers and brand consultants.

Sharif Rahman, CEO, IEC said: “The participation that we are seeing from both the exhibitors and trade visitors signifies the potential of the industry. We are delighted to see a remarkable turnaround on the first day at SGI Dubai 2017.

“The show just gets bigger and bigger every year with infinite dimensions for the visitors to learn and discover. A huge built-up of potential customers and numerous business opportunities await the exhibitors of SGI Dubai 2017, which is truly enriching event in the Middle East. The event showcased an impressive array of the latest product innovations from across the globe that is set to hit the market this year and we are confident that the following two days will see a huge volume of business deals.”

Other recognized brands who are exhibiting at  SGI Dubai 2017 include ADS Advertising Materials, Afford Inks, Al Tarkeez Stationery Trading, Amzan Neon, Arona Trading, Chemica France, Dynagraph, Egygrafx, Fast Signs Advertising, Fortune 7 Adv, Frimpeks, Graphic International, Lih Mei Industrial SDN BHD, Magic trading, Mono General trading, Prime Sign International Limited, Reflective SAS, Sharpmax limited, Signmax Advertising, Simple Media Solutions, Starflex, Talib Trading and Verseidag Indutex GmBH.

“As always we will bring forward the industry’s best innovators and exhibitors, as we all introduce the signage and graphic industry’s best innovations and technologies. SGI Dubai 2017 has specialized pavilions to cater to the ever-developing needs of the Digital, Retail, Textile and Finishing & Fabricating industry. This means one thing: endless opportunities. Whether you are an exhibitor or a visitor, SGI Dubai 2017 is a trade show that you cannot afford to miss,” added Rahman. – TradeArabia News Service