MIDDLE EAST SUSTAINABILITY INCLUDING THE PRINT INDUSTRY

It is widely acknowledged that the Middle East’s printing industry has experienced robust growth since the end of the pandemic. According to the international market research company Mordor Intelligence, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), the digital-printing market alone is estimated to reach €1.4 ($1.16) billion by 2029. In addition, a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.93% is expected over the next five years. 

Contributing to this growth and supporting non-oil economies, the governments across the Gulf region – Kuwait, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Oman – are intensifying their efforts to diversify petro-dollar economies. In particular, through tourism infrastructure, events, e-commerce, bricks-and-mortar retail and commercial and residential property development. 

Putting this potential into perspective, Saudi Arabia has launched €1.16 ($1.3) trillion in property and infrastructure projects over the past eight years. This is part of its plan to diversify its economy and become a more attractive place to live, work and travel. This includes building one million residential units by 2030.

The Middle East’s printing industry has experienced robust growth since the end of the pandemic

In terms of events, the Dubai World Trade Centre hosted over 300 exhibitions and events in 2023, attracting 2.47 million visitors. These and other events present an exciting opportunity for large-format printers worldwide to expand their business. 

Turning to further opportunities in the aviation sector, King Fahd International Airport, in Damman, Saudi Arabia, is the sixth largest airport in the world. Dubai International Airport welcomed 87 million passengers in 2023 and is now the second busiest in the world. 

Dubai Duty Free operates close to 40,000m² retail space and is currently one of the biggest travel retail operators in the world, with a sales turnover of €1.98 ($2.16) billion in 2023. According to Euromonitor, Dubai was also the third most visited city globally, with 16.8 million visitors in 2023. All of which provide huge business opportunities in the world of graphic print and signage.

This growth presents tangible ongoing opportunities for wide-format printing for outdoor advertising and signage, across a multitude of sectors, particularly in the retail and hospitality space. However, it is important to remember all the potential in building wraps and graphics while construction of these property and infrastructure projects take place. Furthermore, global trends, innovative technology and sustainability, are playing an increasingly important role in this exciting potential growth story.

Print companies need to respond positively to consumer demand for environmentally friendly products

Print companies need to respond positively to consumer demand for environmentally friendly products, more efficient operating procedures and end-of-life recycling. These measures will undoubtedly help to considerably reduce the carbon footprint of print businesses. 

Underscoring national environmental strategies, some Gulf states announced landmark pledges at Conference of the Parties (COP) 28, which was held in Dubai in 2023. The UAE and Oman committed to net zero by 2050 and Saudi Arabia by 2060. 

Moreover, there are interim targets. The UAE aims to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions by approximately 20% by 2030. Each country’s private sector will also be expected to contribute significantly to these targets. Naturally, the printing industry will not be exempt. 

Therefore, print companies will be expected to reduce energy consumption and consequently cut carbon emissions. This will only be achieved by using a combination of recycled materials and eco-friendly inks. Additionally, investment in new, more energy-efficient equipment and production techniques that avoid excessive waste.

Naturally, for many print companies, this will require significant capital investment, a review of operational procedures and engagement with suppliers based on sustainable credentials, rather than price. 

Numerous sustainability consultancies exist in the region, that could help companies to embark on a net zero plan towards becoming carbon-neutral printers. The initial phases involve measuring existing carbon emissions, including raw materials, energy consumption, production facilities, transportation and other supply chain components. 

Whatever the outcome, this will likely affect margins in the short term. However, new energy-efficient machinery will operate more cost effectively, saving money in the longer term. As more material suppliers embrace sustainability, costs should also begin to fall in line with market supply. 

With pressure mounting from regional governments and climate-conscious consumers, it makes sense for print-service and signage providers to lead in these ever-growing requirements and embrace more sustainable practices in their business. 

Print companies will be expected to reduce energy consumption

FESPA Middle East will take place from 20–22 January 2025, at the Dubai Exhibition Centre. The conference connects senior decision-makers and trade professionals with leading OEM suppliers and distributors from the print, textile and signage industries. Its inaugural event, earlier this year, was hugely successful. More information can be found at www.fespamiddleeast.com