SGI sees fewer customers due to falling global market

Dubai: Exhibits at the annual sign and graphic imaging show, SGI, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, say the advertising and marketing industry is facing a downturn due to the global spending.

Small businesses have struggled the most, according to Al Mahir Printing Equipment owner Dilawar Dalawai, who said customers want “more functionality for a lower price. Huge machines and printers are selling less, but we are diversifying.” he said.

Others however say that business is still steady, said Shihab ud Din, managing director of Pixel Innovation Advertising, who was exhibiting at SGI for the first time. Ud Din claims the company had growth of 200% in 2015.

“Buyers are few but we are being approached, most of them are from the GCC and some from Africa.” he said. Company’s are also concerned about the recovery of large products that are on loan to clients, as many contracts go over the rental time, he said. The average time to rent is 60 days, he said, but the products come back in around 90 days, which places a financial burden on the company.

Big companies, such as Canon and Brother, both report that there are seeing fewer consumers coming in to look at the products. The companies claim that sales have mostly flat lined. Canon Marketing Manager Ayman Aly said, “We are achieving the objective in terms of sales as we have introduced a number of new products and innovations in the printing market.”

For a third time return, Pioneer Polyleather Limited, were less than satisfied by the outcome of the exhibition. An Indian based company with a control over 40 per cent in the market, the company relies on buyers internationally as well. Latin America and the Middle East are their top markets.