The Middle East’s signage sector is one of the fastest growing markets globally. Industry figures show that in the first half of 2002 regional spending on outdoor advertising alone rose by 27.5 percent, to $58.9 million, compared with the same period in 2001.
Although Saudi Arabia is the region’s biggest outdoor market, with a spend of $22.27 million in the first six months of 2002, the fastest growing is the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which grew by 47.8 percent to $7.2 million.
Market growth is mirrored by that of Sign and Graphic Imaging, the Middle East’s specialized signage, graphic imaging and screen printing sectors show, has sold out its initially contracted two Dubai International Exhibition Center (DIEC) halls. Organizer International Expo-Consults (IEC) has decided to contract for a third.
Three weeks before the three-day event opens, on January 19, IEC says the extra space is needed to accommodate a waiting list of exhibitors. “We are in the happy position of being able to meet the demand for additional exhibitor space so close to the opening. As a result, Sign and Graphic Imaging 2003 will be 40 percent larger than in 2002, occupying 4,500 square meters,” said IEC Vice President Mohammed Falkanaz.
“We will have 128 exhibitors, from 23 countries, showcasing more than 350 brands. In addition the show will feature its first China industry pavilion, housing six companies,” he added. Sign and Graphic Imaging will run for three days at the DIEC, from January 19-21.
Sign and Graphic Imaging 2003 will feature, for the first time, a dedicated screen-printing, digital imaging and color separation arena. In addition the live demonstration zone for sign making, laser technology, adhesives and graphics applications has been enlarged.
The show will also include a sector-specific pre-press area, as well as an expanded ‘Global trends in POP, Signage and Digital Imaging’ industry-led seminar focusing on the latest technology and thinking in the Point Of Purchase (POP) sector. — (menareport.com)
© 2003 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
