How many exhibitors are participating at SGI Dubai 2018?
SGI Dubai has grown bigger every year. The 21st edition has grown bigger than last year with about 327 international and local organisations exhibiting in the show. The show has grown by around 10 percent if we consider the number of exhibitors.
What sort of footfall do you expect the event to garner over the next 3 days?
Being the largest exhibition of its kind in the Middle East, SGI Dubai 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. Approximately 12,000 to 13,000 people are expected to visit the exhibition from Jan 14 – 16, 2018.
Which technologies and solutions are being highlighted at the event?
During SGI Dubai you can see a lot of new technology and innovative machines and processes for digital printing, digital signage, textile printing, and LED, among others. On a quick glance, this year there is a lot of focus on fabric printing. Another exhibitor highlighted a glass printing methodology which was very attractive.
What sort of marketing trends and dynamics are driving the sign and graphics industry?
Fabric printing has picked up in the region in recent times. UAE ‘s textile market is the second largest market, next to oil; and is expected to further grow due to the lower cost of raw materials. This acceleration in the textile market is expected to grow the digital textile printing market in the near future.
How can a platform such as SGI 2018 help exhibitors and visitors elevate their business offerings?
SGI Dubai 2018 serves as a converging point for print and production manufacturers, sign makers, media and marketing agencies, developers, architects, and brand and image consultants, among others. For the last two decades, SGI has played a pivotal role in bringing together the stakeholders, exhibitors and visitors in the signage and graphic industry under a common platform.
Are there any sections or seminars being conducted alongside SGI 2018?
As part of SGI Dubai 2018, we would be conducting panel discussions under the Knowledge Series banner. We aim to bring together the best business minds of the industry in the region and discuss the future that the sector would be taking in the future. Additionally, we have an artwork competition – ‘Wall of Fame’ and a car wrapping competition – ‘Masters of Wrap’ taking place during the exhibition.
