CURTAINS were up on a brand new show at Expo Centre Sharjah – Print Pack Arabia 2014.

“It is a matter of great pride to see the unveiling of a new trade show at Expo Centre Sharjah. The calendar of events at Expo Centre is growing consistently and I am sure Print Pack Arabia will be a landmark event for the regional printing and packaging industry,” said Ahmed Mohammed Midfa, chairman, Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, after the opening ceremony.

The fair was jointly organised by Expo Centre Sharjah and the Indian Printing, Packaging and Allied Machinery Manufacturers’ Association (Ipama), the apex body of printing, packaging and allied industries in India.

“I am sure that the tie-up with Ipama will help Sharjah take centre stage in the fast-growing printing and packing industry in the Middle East region and successfully complement the Plastivision Arabia, Arabia Mold and PlastiCon held simultaneously,” he added.

Print Pack Arabia featured more than 70 exhibitors plus two special pavilions from India and China and a knowledge-sharing platform through technical seminars.

“The regional industry is driven by growing economies and supported by core sectors such as real estate, retail and new projects. A rise in marketing services and advertising also boosts the industry. The industry here is evolving continually, as packaging buyers continue to search for ways to engage with customers using innovative methods,” said Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO, Expo Centre Sharjah.

“Acquiring the latest technologies will be key for the sector to cash in on these positive fundamentals. Print Pack Arabia will be a comprehensive sourcing platform for printers, industry professionals, buyers and design agencies,” he added.

Print Pack Arabia showcased technological innovations, designs and products in the field, and exchanged technological know-how and expertise, offering competitive prices and top-quality services from a wide range of regional and international distributors and manufacturers.