'Digital Signages' to further boost retail sector in Middle East, says IEC Chairman

Sign and Graphic Imaging Middle East is one of the most anticipated events of the year in the region for exhibitors and visitors in the signage, outdoor media, screen and digital printing industries.

According to a recent report by Global Industry Analysts Inc. the global digital signage systems market is expected to reach $13.8bn by 2017.

"Organisations such as the retail outlets, malls and airports are all utilising the power of digital signages and are able to communicate better with their target audience. This industry is set to grow due to the rapid growth within the digital signage technology industry. Floor space is becoming expensive in today's retail marketplace and therefore the growth of digital signage will surely help marketers to make wiser business decisions and get better returns on their investments," said Mr. Abdul Rahman Falaknaz, Chairman of IEC.

Digital signage is a form of electronic display that shows television programming, menus, information, advertising and several other messages. Digital signs such as LCD, LED or projected images can be found in public and private environments, such as retail stores, hotels, restaurants and corporate buildings. The SGI show is being held from January 20th to 22nd in Hall 1 in addition to the large Zabeel Halls 1, 2 and 3 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

"We are delighted to showcase the potential of this new communication tool called 'Digital Signage' at our show. An emerging technology in this space, digital signage, has rewritten the rules of marketing, enabling enterprises to deliver information to their employees and customers more effectively. We strongly believe that this technology has a huge growth potential and will add a lot of value within the marketing framework," added Mr. Falaknaz.

SGI Middle East is an established business forum where exhibitors and visitors can interact with sign makers, print and production manufacturers, architects, media agencies, real-estate developers, brand and image consultants among others. This is also an official DSF 2013 event. IEC is also the Dubai EXPO2020 bid supporter.

"The market sees digital signage as a more beneficial tool as compared to static signage because content that updates frequently can be digitally updated, saving the cost of printing. Increasing adoption among a wider base of industrial sectors as an effective medium for interactive advertising and decreasing costs of purchasing, installation and maintenance also augurs well for the future of the market. Digital signage also has the ability to be interactive with imbedded touch screens, movement detection and image capture devices," said Mr. Sharif Rahman, CEO, IEC.

"Furthermore, digital media technologies have completely transformed the marketing landscape in which enterprise and media companies operate by enabling them to optimize their business processes. New delivery mechanisms have also allowed marketers to use innovative strategies to reach their customer bases effectively," added Mr. Rahman.