A leading sign and graphic imaging exhibition is set to showcase several car wrapping displays and expertise in Dubai next year. The 17th edition of SGI Dubai 2014 will be held at the Dubai World Trade Centre from January 7 to 9 and will include seminars and workshops conducted by industry experts. It will bring together over 400 global exhibitors from across 30 countries, which will include sign makers, print and production manufacturers, architects, media agencies, real-estate developers, brand and image consultants. The car wrapping industry generated $220 to $250 million at retail level and is projected to grow 10 per cent year-on-year, said a study by global analysis and consulting firm Frost and Sullivan. The UAE’s car wrapping industry is set to grow further due to the exponential growth experienced by its automobile sector, said a statement from International Expo Consults (IEC), the exhibition arm of Dubai-based Falak Holding. “Car wrapping was originally designed as a medium of creating mobile advertising. The car wrapping industry has witnessed rapid growth in the UAE in recent years and this market is very much in the growth phase and has a tremendous potential. This medium definitely enables wide marketing outreach, and the effectiveness of the advertising as well as its aesthetic appeal has been the reason behind the recent surge in demand for car wraps,” said Abdul Rahman Falaknaz, chairman of IEC. “Once the right awareness levels are achieved, car wraps will definitely open new doors for automotive savvy business operators who are looking at an opportunity to ‘wow’ their customers,” said Sharif Rahman, CEO. “It is clearly visible that wrapping vehicles has become one of the hottest forms of outdoor advertising. Businesses that specialise in wraps are fast gaining momentum in the UAE, and a large number of existing automotive aftermarket and signage businesses are adding this service to their current line of offerings to capitalise on the extra revenues,” added Rahman. Source: TradeArabia