The 11th annual Sign and Graphic Imaging Middle East (SGI 2009) Exhibition looks set to be the largest event in its history.

The show takes place from February 15 to 17, 2009, at Dubai Airport Expo which will be its new venue. The show is supported by the Advertising Section of Dubai Municipality.

Already, 65 per cent of floor space has been sold for the exhibition and show organisers International Expo Consults (IEC) are predicting that the event will be 40 per cent larger than the 2008 edition.

Among the list of exhibitors already confirmed for SGI 2009 are Gandi Innovations, Fujifilm Sericol, Giffin Graphics, 3M , Obeikan Technical, EFI Vutek, Victor Inks and Systems.

“SGI is growing in terms of exhibitor participation and the coming year will be no exception. We have recorded 40 per cent growth in terms of exhibitor participation in comparison to SGI 08. As organisers we leave no stone unturned as far as the promotion of the show is concerned which in turn attracts a large number of serious business visitors,” said president of IEC Abdul Rehman Falaknaz.

“Dubai is growing in terms of infrastructure and the number of shopping malls, fun centres, attractions, recreation centres, etc are mushrooming – and they all require signage. Also the real estate industry's phenomenal growth is automatically creating opportunity for this industry with indoor and outdoor advertising, POPs, new technology and innovations.”

Initial response has been very positive for the new venue by both exhibitors and potential visitors. Visitor registration is also seeing huge increases, with figures up on this time last year, as industry buyers register online at www.signmiddleeast.com.

Dubai Airport Expo was chosen for its ease of access for companies bringing in large-scale equipment to exhibit. Also, it is an ideal location for visitors flying in to attend the event.

SGI 2009 will dominate Dubai Airport Expo when it takes place in February, with visibility and branding opportunities for exhibitors adding to their overall exposure at the show.

SGI 2009 will showcase the latest products and emerging technologies from the industries of Advertising, Architectural Hardware, Banners & Posters, Digital Imaging, Electronic Message Centres, Electronic Signage, Graphic Imaging, Graphic Services, Large Format Printing, and Signage.

New for 2009, SGI will also incorporate a seminar programme, with prominent industry leaders flying in to Dubai to present keynote addresses on the sign and graphic imaging industry. – TradeArabia News Service