Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), the largest purpose-built complex for events and exhibitions in the Middle East,is expanding its services in event management, design and build by investing in sophisticated, versatile printing equipment. TheOcé Arizona large format UV flatbed printer was added to its event production division recentlykeep up with its growing number of customisation jobs.
Heliozid Océ Emirates, resellers of Canon Emirates, closed the deal after more than two years of negotiation with DWTC, which arrived at its decision after thorough market research and evaluation of printing equipment from several brands. Abdullah Lootah, senior manager, production and delivery, DWTC, talks to ME Printer about the company’s expansion plans and how the Océ Arizona enhances its event services.
For what specific markets and applications did you invest in the Canon Océ Arizona?
DWTC is the region’s largest events and exhibitions venue, welcoming over 2.74 million visitorsacross various eventsin key industry sectors. Our event production division is a 360-degree events and exhibition services provider specialising in full event management, design and build. As we continue to invest in top-notch machinery and applications, we saw a prime opportunity to invest in theOcé Arizona to keep up with the growing number of customisation jobs, particularly for weddings and direct to substrate production.
How big is your in-house printing department in terms of investment and number of machines?
We have a team of over 100 specialists including technicians, engineers, carpenters, riggers and designers. All of them possess the highest levels of training and competence that keeps them in-step with global best practice in their respective fields. In terms of in-house printing, we are currently running five machines and expanding.
What were the specific features of the Canon Océ Arizona that was required in your company?
With over 30 years of excellence as the Middle East’s most extensive event resource, we constantly strive for top-notch results for all our events. As we continue to grow, we require many new features in a printer to enhance the quality of the final product. Among such features, white colour printing and varnish spot printing for decorative applications would enhance our capabilities. The Océ Arizona met all those needs.
Why was Heliozid Océ chosen over its competitors?
There are several reasons why we chose this product over others. We received good response from the Heliozid Océ team, we had good support during installation, and advice was provided on new materials and substrate. We also received quality recommendations on new applications and the Hi-Quality mode for fine art photographic quality. Heliozid Océ Emirates also have the unique expertise of direct textile printing with their full range of Granada textile printers, one of which was selected by DWTC along with the Arizona flatbed printer.
How does this printer enhance your business?
We have built the region’s most professional event services network,and printing is an important component of our services. We select and invest in the best products in the market, and being one of the few owners of this printer in the market has allowed us to create a niche product, and broaden our range of services.
The Canon Arizona printer has the capability to print directly on wood, glass, acrylic, di-bond panels, ceramic, and have elevated printing like 3D. It also has the roll to roll option, prints multiple panels at once, prints edge to edge, on pre-cut or any shaped media, and has an optional sixth colour which allows for spot or flood varnish effects. Arizona’s range of applications includes vehicle graphics, banners, backlits, signage, building wraps, exhibition prints, billboards, window decoration, glass, point of purchase, and many industrial applications. With these new solutions, this investment will certainly help enhance and grow our business.
