Green print technologies lead the way

Industry leaders from across the globe have gathered in Dubai to promote the very latest in print technologies, and environment awareness has been a central theme to many of the new products displayed.

Hewlett Packard Middle East has been promoting its new HP L65-500 jet latex print technology, which is environmentally friendly because it uses no solvents.

"Green technology is important to the print technology market. The Middle East follows the trends of Europe and a lot of the big companies are now moving towards green technologies,"

said Kunal Avari, regional manager - sales, Hewlett Packard Middle East.

Hewlett Packard is also promoting its XP 50-300 five metre four colour printer offering two sets of inks. "This can produce 300-square metre-printed images for billboards. This technology is geared towards the billboards segment, which is big business here in Dubai," added Avari.

New location will help visitors avoid traffic and, being close to the airport, it is good for international visitors.

Gandi Innovations, exhibiting at the show for the eleventh year, is focusing on its range of textile printers.

"Textile printing is lighter, easier to set up, is recyclable and the colours are more vibrant," explained Abdallah Ghalayi, regional marketing director, ME&A, Gandi Innovations.

Gandi Innovations is promoting five printers in total, including a high speed roll to roll UV printer and small garment printers.

Saudi Arabia's Obeikan Technical Fabrics has been enjoying success with its range of coated, laminated fabrics. The company produces up to two million square metres of fabric a month from its factories in the Kingdom.

"Fabric, rather than laminates, is more durable and offers more competitive prices. Our product can last from one to five years," said Eng Kenan Aljazairi, sales & marketing manager, Obeikan Technical Fabrics.

Non-solvent print solutions and printed fabrics are just two of the many new and innovative products on display at the show this week. SGI 2009 is showcasing 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 takes place at Dubai Airport Expo from February 15 - 17, 2009. The show is endorsed by the Advertising Section of Dubai Municipality. The show is also supported by EMSA and VISA (Visual Industries Suppliers Association).