Business Matching debuts at Sign and Graphic Imaging show

Show organisers International Expo Consults (IEC) has created an online platform designed at connecting exhibitors and visitors before attending the exhibition.

SGI 2009 will adopt the online Business Matching component, enabling pre-registered visitors to match their requirements to exhibitors. This way, the exhibitors can ensure they have the information required by potential customers before attending the show.

"Business Matching enables exhibitors and visitors to begin communicating before meeting at SGI 2009. We hope that this will help both parties to define their goals for the show and will lead to more concrete orders being placed at SGI 2009,"

said Abdul Rehman Falaknaz, President of IEC.

Exhibitors simply log on and enter their details at the SGI 2009 website, to receive an exclusive user id. Exhibitors then receive details of pre-registered visitors interested in their products and services.

Despite the global economic turndown, IEC is predicting that this year's SGI will be 40% 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.

"Dubai, with its $100bn retail market and its emerging retail trends, is known for its unique perpetual growth rate. The local industry offers tremendous opportunities across all segments of the signage, digital, retail and advertising industries. SGI 2009 is poised to become the definitive index for this specialised industry sector in the Middle East region," Mr Falaknaz explained.

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.

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.

SGI 2009 will take place at Dubai Airport Expo from February 15 - 17, 2009. The show is supported by the Advertising Section of Dubai Municipality.