Ayman Aly, Marketing Director, B2B, Canon Middle East, discusses the company’s participation at Gulf Print & Pack 2025 in Riyadh.
What technology/sector did Canon showcase at Gulf Print & Pack 2025? Can you highlight the benefits of the machines to the users?
As the Platinum Sponsor of Gulf Print & Pack 2025, Canon’s showcase underscores the burgeoning opportunities in Saudi Arabia’s commercial and package printing sectors, with a strong focus on digital technologies while acknowledging the enduring importance of conventional offset printing. Presenting innovative solutions such as the ProStream, VarioPRINT iX, and UVgel Packaging Factory, and the TZ-32000 with Z36 scanner demonstrates our commitment to meeting the evolving market demands for flexibility and customization. Additionally, products like the PlotWave T35 add value to our comprehensive range of solutions. This approach aligns seamlessly with Saudi Vision 2030’s goals for economic diversification and technological advancement.
We believe traditional offset printing and digital workflows complement each other. By offering technologies that complement existing offset operations alongside cutting-edge digital solutions, we are well-positioned to support businesses at various stages of their digital transition. This comprehensive approach enables Canon to bridge the gap between traditional and modern printing methods, capitalizing on the Kingdom’s diverse and expanding print market.
For the Interior Decor sector, we spotlighted digital printing solutions that transform spaces aesthetically and functionally. The lineup includes the Arizona series for rigid media, the UVgel/Colorado M-series for high-productivity roll-to-roll printing, and the imagePROGRAF series for premium photo and fine art applications. These are supported by the PRISMA XL Suite software and end-to-end workflow solutions, enabling Print Service Providers to manage diverse customer needs efficiently. The showcase will also feature a mezzanine area highlighting retail interior décor, signage, and commercial applications, emphasizing Canon’s versatility in serving this market.
As a partner of choice for the Publishing Industry, Canon emphasises end-to-end book production, innovation, and workflow automation. At GPP, Canon featured the VP 6330 TITAN and imagePRESS V1000 for high-quality colour book production alongside PRISMA workflow solutions for enhanced efficiency, as well as the ColorStream 8000 series for high production efficiencies. Canon will also highlight its involvement in the Publishing 2030 Accelerator, underscoring its commitment to sustainable change and print-on-demand services in the global book industry.
In the Packaging sector showcase, Canon demonstrated its strategic expansion into digital packaging printing. The UVgel Packaging Factory, built on the Colorado M-series and Neolt technology, will be highlighted for its ability to produce on-demand corrugated packaging. Additionally, the Arizona 1360 FLXflow will be showcased for short-run packaging needs.
Lastly, in Commercial Print and Promotional Communications, Canon highlighted the power of personalised print in omnichannel marketing. The ProStream 2000 and VarioPRINT iX3200 will be virtually demonstrated, showcasing their flexibility for various applications, including direct mail, postcards, and retail materials. The imagePRESS 1350 will also be featured alongside sustainability-focused print applications and a range of finished products demonstrating Canon’s end-to-end workflow capabilities.
Since the opening of the Saudi Arabia office in 2018 -end – how is the growth trajectory for Canon – year on year?
Canon has experienced remarkable growth since establishing its direct operations in the Kingdom in 2018, maintaining a consistent 30% growth rate, surpassing initial projections. Notably, Canon exceeded its target of employing 300 staff by 2023, showcasing rapid expansion and commitment to local talent development. This growth trajectory is underpinned by substantial investment, with Canon pledging over 50 million dollars to bolster its presence in the Kingdom. This investment has facilitated the opening of three strategic showrooms and offices in key cities: Jeddah, Khobar, and Riyadh.
From comments in the media, geographical expansion has helped Canon’s growth in KSA. Do you have any plans to open more offices in KSA in the next 2 years or 5 years?
We anticipate continued growth and investment in Saudi Arabia. Canon has demonstrated its commitment by opening the first regional customer experience centre in Riyadh. This state-of-the-art facility serves as a hub for showcasing Canon’s latest technologies and fostering closer relationships with Saudi customers. Canon’s ongoing investments in marketing and customer engagement initiatives demonstrate our commitment to deepen our presence in the Kingdom.
Is the interior decoration industry showing the possibility of upward scaling for Canon, since many companies from outside Saudi Arabia and from within the country are opening offices, Vision 2030 has been announced, and the country has brought in sweeping changes?
The interior decoration industry in Saudi Arabia shows strong potential for growth, aligning with Vision 2030’s economic diversification plans. Canon is well-positioned to capitalise on this trend with its comprehensive range of digital printing solutions for interior décor. The company offers a full spectrum of printers, from the Arizona series for rigid media, the UVgel/Colorado M-series for high-volume roll-to-roll production, and the imagePROGRAF series for premium quality prints. These hardware solutions are complemented by the PRISMA XL Suite software and End2End Workflow solutions, enabling efficient management of diverse customer needs.
