International Expo Consults (IEC), part of Falak Holding, said investments in theme parks, infrastructure and retail in Saudi Arabia will further boost the billion dollar printing industry. This sector is expected to grow exponentially across the MENA region due to the investment by governments in various sectors especially infrastructure. According to Smithers Pira report, the total printing revenues alone is forecast to grow 7.2% per annum reaching $26 billion by 2018. Demand for the latest standard of printing and digital signages is on the growth path. Old equipment is gradually and steadily being phased out to usher in new machinery. This growth translates into vast opportunities for printers, raw material suppliers and print equipment suppliers in the country. Abdul Rahman Falaknaz, Chairman of IEC, said "the printing industry has witnessed a paradigm shift over the last few years. Technology innovation year-on-year has resulted in top quality results with regard to printing and signages. Today, attention grabbing digital and traditional signages, are a must to attract the customers. These tools will further enhance the effectiveness of marketing campaigns." IEC is the organizer of the 19-year-old ‘SGI Dubai show', one of the most anticipated events of the year in the MENA region within the signage, digital signage, retail signage solutions, outdoor media, screen and digital printing industries. "The printing press is regarded as one of the most important inventions of all times. New technologies have been redefining the process of printing, thereby helping GCC countries to expand their domestic industries and generate the desired awareness amongst its customers. Also the increasing specialization of Saudi Arabia's printing sector has seen a tremendous growth in creation of new jobs as well," said Sharif Rahman, CEO, IEC. SGI Dubai 2017 show is bringing exhibitors and visitors from USA, UK, Germany, China and Japan, among others. The 20th edition of SGI Dubai is expected to receive thousands of visitors from different countries and they are set to witness the industry's latest products and trends. The SGI Dubai 2017 show would be held on Jan.15-17, 2017 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Sign and Graphic Imaging Dubai (SGI Dubai) is an ideal converging point where visitors and exhibitors can reach out with architects, sign makers, print and production manufacturers, media agencies, real-estate developers, brand and image consultants among others. The event is a well-established business forum, which is recognized globally and constitutes workshops and seminars held by industry experts.
