Rapidly growing Mid East signage demand drives expansion by Korean market leader

As part of a multi-faceted development strategy the company will use Dubai's Sign and Graphic Imaging show, the only event serving the specialised signage, graphic imaging and screen printing sector in the Middle East and North Africa, to launch concept showrooms in the UAE and neighbouring countries, to service its regional clients.

The firm's plans also include massive expansion of its logistics base in Dubai's Jebel Ali Free Zone from 1,550 to 10,200 square metres; setting up an Application Development Centre, with testing and research facilities, and a regional training centre for staff, distributors and dealers.

"We have identified strategic partners in the region and are looking forward to setting up showrooms with them. Company owned branches and additional regional logistics bases will also be considered depending on the opportunities for making products locally," said Nilesh Jain, Director, LG Plastika.

The company believes the Gulf region and neighbouring countries to be vitally important markets for future growth, citing rapid infrastructure development and economic liberalisation as the driving forces.

"The Middle East's signage industry will grow dramatically during the next five years as planned major projects come onstream and regional economies open up. The expansion plans we have laid out will enable us to meet market demand and service even the smallest of customers' needs," said Jain.

Exhibitors from more than 25 countries from Europe, the USA, Middle and Far East have confirmed their participation in Sign and Graphic Imaging Middle East, which has doubled in size for the 2002 event.

The show, which has the support of Dubai Municipality, will be held at the Dubai World Trade Centre, from January 22 to 24.

"The strong demand for exhibition space underlines the wide spread interest from international companies wanting to break into the region's emerging markets," said Mohammed Falaknaz, Vice Chairman of organisers International Expo-Consults (IEC). "We expect a number of major contracts to be finalised during the show."