BOBST brought the packaging community together in Sousse in early December for a two-day event designed to introduce the latest innovations and sustainability solutions across labels, flexible packaging, folding cartons, and corrugated packaging. Held on 3 and 4 December 2025, BOBST welcomed more than 150 attendees to the Sousse Pearl Marriott Resort & Spa Hotel for a packed program of presentations and networking opportunities. The first day of the roadshow was dedicated to the folding carton and corrugated packaging sectors, while the second catered to label and flexible packaging converters. As well as a broad contingent of BOBST expert speakers, partner companies Baumer HHS, Esko, Kurz, Packitoo, Reifenhäuser, and Rossini joined the agenda, covering the key topics affecting the industry today. “The BOBST roadshow in Tunisia allowed converters to explore new opportunities for growth and operational excellence in all packaging segments,” said Eric Pavone, Regional Business Director for the AFRLAS region. “With a strong speaker program and strategic partner presence, the event perfectly showcased BOBST involvement and leadership in North Africa. And I’m pleased to report that the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.” For the paperboard industry, the focus was on the new BOBST NOVAFFG flexo folder gluer. This complete box making solution, which has an optimized footprint and lean layout, offers a highly competitive price-performance ratio. The ETERNA portfolio of converting solutions was also presented as another cost-effective option for corrugated packaging. Folding carton specialists could learn about BOBST’s revolutionary Zero Fault Packaging concept, and the DIGITAL MASTER 55 All-in-One platform configured for light cartons. On the flexible packaging front, the modular VISION CI flexo press and multi-technology NOVALAM 800 laminator were in the spotlight, presenting a strong combination for efficient production. And for inline flexo labels, the star of the show was the MASTER M5, an automated versatile label and flexible packaging press. Other topics covered included BOBST Connect – the digital cloud-based platform, the digitalization of gravure printing, the latest innovations in coating and metallization, excellence in tooling performance, equipment financing solutions, and BOBST support & services. Partner innovation and collaboration formed a big part of the program with talks from KURZ on new trends in digital embellishment and sustainable finishing, and innovation in gluing technology courtesy of Baumer HHS. PACKITOO HIPE, the AI-powered software that configures, calculates, and generates quotes, was also presented, while the Esko talk outlined the advantages of its collaboration with BOBST. The future of film extrusion was discussed by Reifenhäuser, and the challenges of sustainable innovation in printing equipment by Rossini.

FESPA has unveiled its official FESPA Event App, now live and designed to elevate the visitor experience at FESPA Middle East 2026. Created to help attendees navigate the region’s premier print and visual communications exhibition with ease, the app brings the entire event to your fingertips. With a clean, intuitive interface, the app allows users to explore the complete conference programme, curate a personalised schedule, and stay informed about sessions, speakers, and on-site activities. Attendees can also message one another directly, arrange meetings, and access their badge QR code for seamless entry. Beyond planning and networking, the app offers smart tools for navigating the show floor, discovering exhibitors, and identifying new opportunities across print, signage, textile printing, and related technologies. Whether attendees want to maximise their time in Dubai, streamline their visit, or expand their business connections, the new FESPA Event App provides an efficient and connected way to experience the exhibition. As FESPA Middle East 2026 prepares to welcome the industry from 13–15 January at the Dubai Exhibition Centre, this digital companion ensures that every visitor can get more value, more insight, and more meaningful engagement from their time at the show.

CAI Software, a leading provider of manufacturing ERP and production software solutions for more than fifteen vertical markets, and Print ePS, a leading provider of manufacturing ERP and production software for the graphic communications industry, have announced that they have combined in a merger of equals.  The merger brings together two trusted leaders with a shared vision: delivering best-in-class software solutions to address complex challenges across specialized manufacturing markets. The newly combined organization will operate as CAI Software (CAI). Print ePS will become the Graphic Communications business unit of CAI. Moving forward there will be three operating divisions of CAI: Process Manufacturing, Discrete Manufacturing and Graphic Communications. As part of this transaction, the ePS Packaging division of eProductivity Software (ePS) will now operate as an independent software company dedicated to empowering packaging businesses worldwide. Leadership and Vision As part of the transaction, CAI Software has named Brent Pietrzak as CEO and Cort Townsend as CFO. Brent shared his enthusiasm for the road ahead: “This merger creates tremendous opportunities for our clients, employees and partners. By aligning our customer-centric strategies, we are building a more dynamic, diversified software leader. The management team at CAI is excited to move forward with a shared commitment to innovation, performance and growth.” STG, the lead investor in CAI and ePS, will continue their investment in the newly combined business. William Chisholm, Managing Partner, and Patrick Fouhy, Managing Director, at STG, shared: “The combination of CAI Software and Print ePS brings together the strength of two industry leaders while opening an exciting new chapter. By honoring the heritage of both businesses and investing in future-focused innovation, we are building a powerful software organization ready to drive transformation across the manufacturing landscape. We are proud to support CAI on the next leg of its strategic evolution and are excited to partner with Brent, Cort and the broader management team. We’d also like to thank Brian Rigney and Dan Vertachnik for their impactful leadership at CAI and Print ePS, respectively, over the past three and a half years.” A Compelling Path Forward The merger is a strategic step forward, designed to strengthen the business. Clients, employees, and partners can expect a seamless transition as well as increased investment across the combined product portfolio. The new company will continue to build on its: Global Presence: With a combined workforce of over 800 employees and offices across North America, Europe, and Asia, we are well-positioned to support customers around the world. Deep Experience: The team brings together industry leaders and experienced technologists who will continue to collaborate with clients and partners to address industry trends and client specific needs. Exceptional Client Support: Continuing to deliver high quality service to our clients remains a top priority. Our account management and support teams remain focused on delivering exceptional outcomes for our clients. Continued Innovation: By leveraging our specialized domain expertise, the company is focused on utilizing cutting-edge technology that enables practical and impactful solutions for specialized manufacturers. About CAI Software LLC CAI Software is a leading provider of manufacturing ERP and production software solutions to more than fifteen vertical end markets in the process (e.g., food & beverage and chemicals), discrete (e.g., A&D, automotive parts) and distribution (e.g., food) sectors. About Print ePS (now CAI Graphic Communications) Print ePS is a leading provider of manufacturing ERP and production software for the graphic communications market serving commercial and publication printers, promotional and transactional mail producers, sign & screen display manufacturers, in-house print centers and print-for-pay providers.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – 12th August 2025–Konica Minolta Arabia Regional Headquarters LLC is pleased to announce the signing of a new distributorship agreement with Samir Group, appointing them as a distributor for Konica Minolta’s Label Printing Solutions in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This milestone comes following the remarkable success of Samir Group in representing Konica Minolta’s MGI Embellishment Solutions in the Saudi Arabian market. Since their appointment as the distributor for MGI, Samir Group has demonstrated outstanding performance, establishing a strong market presence and delivering innovative solutions to customers across the Kingdom. Building on this proven track record, Konica Minolta is now extending the partnership by entrusting Samir Group with the Label Printer business, further strengthening our shared vision to provide advanced print technologies and value-added solutions to the Saudi market. “Samir Group has consistently exceeded our expectations with their professionalism, market reach, and customer-centric approach,” said Mr. Osamu Miyauchi CEO and Managing Director. “We are confident that their expertise will further drive the success of our Label Printing Solutions in Saudi Arabia”, Osamu added. This partnership underscores Konica Minolta’s commitment to expanding its footprint in the region and supporting Saudi Arabia’s fast-growing print industry with innovative technologies and reliable local partners. About Konica Minolta Arabia Regional Headquarters Konica Minolta Arabia Regional Headquarters, based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with back-office in Dubai, United Arab Emirates is a wholly owned subsidiary of Konica Minolta Inc., Tokyo, Japan. With its unique expertise in imaging, data processing and data-based decision making, Konica Minolta creates relevant solutions for its customers’ small and medium-sized businesses, large enterprises and public sector—and solves issues faced by society. Konica Minolta company supports clients and partners across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and beyond, including Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, Yemen, and Pakistan. With a broad portfolio that includes colour and monochrome multifunctional devices, industrial production printing systems, laser printers, and workflow integration software, Konica Minolta delivers smart, sustainable, and cost-effective solutions for businesses across the office and commercial/industrial printing sectors. At the heart of its service offering is the Optimized Print Services Plus (OPS+) model, which integrates consultancy, hardware, software implementation, and managed services to enhance process efficiency and control costs across the document lifecycle. Recognized for innovation, sustainability, and service excellence, Konica Minolta has been honored with multiple awards, including: Quocirca Market Leader Landscape in Print Security 2025 Award IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Sustainability Programs and Services 2023 Vendor Assessment EcoVadis GOLD Sustainability Rating 2024 BLI A3 Line of the Year 2025 With global operations in over 150 countries, Konica Minolta continues to lead the way in smart workplace technology, empowering organizations to work smarter, faster, and greener. For more information, please visit our website Konica Minolta Arabia at: https://www.konicaminolta.ae/business/WPBME. And, follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

HP has announced the launch of three major innovations for Large Format Print Service Providers (PSPs), the HP Latex FS70 W Printer, the HP Latex Productivity Kit, and an enhanced HP PrintOS Production Hub. These additions extend what has already been a milestone year for HP, following the Spring launches of the HP Latex R530 Printer and the HP Latex 730 and HP Latex 830 Printer Series. Together, these solutions reinforce HP’s leadership in large format printing, delivering scalable innovation, sustainable, high-quality design and streamlined end-to-end workflows that empower PSPs to thrive in the evolving future of work.  With today’s launch, HP is reaffirming its commitment to mid- to large-size print service providers who are under pressure to optimize margins, improve efficiency and expand into higher-value applications. These customers face high production costs, fragmented workflows, and limited scalability, requiring a platform that consistently delivers color-accurate quality at speed while withstanding heavy production peaks. The HP Latex FS70 W Printer and HP Latex Productivity Kit have been designed to meet these needs. By reducing workflow complexity through a unified platform, extending the lifecycle of existing devices with modular upgrades and integrating seamlessly with the HP PrintOS ecosystem, HP gives PSPs a solution that safeguards investment while enabling them to grow profitably, stay competitive in premium markets and deliver the highest image quality with color consistency, reliability and sustainability that their clients demand.  “The launch of the HP Latex FS70 W Printer and the HP Latex Productivity Kit marks another step in a strong year of innovation for HP,” said Daniel Martinez, SVP and Division President, HP Large Format Printing. “Following the success of the HP Latex R530 Printer and the HP Latex 730 and 830 Printer Series earlier this year, we are now extending the scalable FS platform to deliver even more growth, quality, efficiency and sustainability for our customers. With continuous innovation through the HP PrintOS Production Hub, we’re not just delivering technology at a single point in time, we are ensuring our customers benefit from new functionality and opportunities every day.” Raising the Standard for Image Quality, Performance and Sustainability  Succeeding the HP Latex 3X00 series, the HP Latex FS70 W Printer is HP’s most productive HP Latex printer to date, providing stunning output, robust productivity and sustainable design that scales seamlessly as businesses grow . It delivers vibrant color at 117 m²/hr (1,259 sq ft/hr) outdoors and 91 m²/hr (980 sq ft/hr) indoors, with a max speed up to 162 m²/hr (1,744 sq ft/hr) , enabling accelerated turnaround without compromising quality. The addition of a 6L white ink cartridge allows PSPs to grow into higher-margin applications while providing confidence in unattended overnight printing. Moreover, with HP PrintOS Configuration Center and the embedded spectrophotometer, PSPs can deliver consistent color across their global fleet. The HP PrintOS Configuration Center provides an advanced cloud-based platform for seamless print operations management, ensuring that color profiles and settings are uniformly applied across all devices, no matter their location. Meanwhile, the embedded spectrophotometer further enhances this consistency by providing precise, automated color calibration, reducing variability and ensuring that every print meets the highest standards of color accuracy. Together, these tools enable businesses to maintain brand integrity and deliver stunning, vibrant prints consistently and operational efficiency.  Built for high-volume efficiency, durable performance and long-term profitability, the HP Latex FS70 W Printer features enhanced unattended printing, optimized print modes, and a scalable platform ready for evolving needs. Key features include a jumbo dual roll kit, a high capacity ink kit supporting cartridges up to 10L, and an optimized cleaning system robustly engineered to provide confidence in unattended long runs. An optional removable overcoat printhead  will also be available for specialized laminated production, taking overcoat waste to zero. Plus, the included ink collector expands possibilities into textile printing, while seamless connection to the HP PrintOS Production Hub  - the only large-format software for order intake and remote control  - streamlines workflows to increase PSPs’ operations. Sustainability remains central to HP’s innovation. The HP Latex FS70 W printer uses odorless  water-based HP Latex inks, certified by UL ECOLOGO®   and UL GREENGUARD Gold  to create comfortable workspaces, and ships with 100% carton cartridges. Additionally, customers can accelerate their sustainability journey with the HP Sustainability Amplifier  and recycle their supplies and hardware through the HP Planet Partners program , enabling them to deliver responsibly for both their business and the planet. HP Latex Productivity Kit: Upgrading Today, Ready for Tomorrow  Last year, HP introduced the HP Latex FS50 and FS60 series, establishing its commitment to providing PSPs with scalable solutions to address their growing needs and thrive in an ever-changing market. Today, HP unveiled the HP Latex Productivity Kit, purposefully designed for HP Latex FS series customers, giving them a direct path to HP Latex FS70-level performance without needing to replace their existing printers. This kit upgrades key subsystems on existing HP Latex FS50s and 60s, speeding up productivity by 30% in key applications . With enhanced speed, easier maintenance and reduced downtime, the kit boosts productivity, scalability, and robustness.   For PSPs, this means faster turnaround times, lower operating costs, and the ability to take on higher-margin, more demanding jobs, extending the lifecycle of their current investment while ensuring they remain competitive at the highest level. “It’s been quite remarkable what quality and speed the HP Latex FS70 W is producing," said UK beta customer John Mark Watson, Managing Director at John Mark Limited. "We always say that if anything needs breaking, we will break it, due to the volumes of print we put through our printers each week; however, the FS70 has proved us wrong. It can't be broken!” Unlocking Growth and Continuous Innovation with HP PrintOS Production Hub First announced in March 2025, the HP PrintOS Production Hub software transforms PSPs’ operations by digitizing workflows, centralizing order and production management, and enabling real-time collaboration. With this software suite, PSPs benefit from intuitive productivity tools, seamless integration, and an easy-to-use design, fostering a smarter and more agile print ecosystem, aligning with HP’s broader vision. Additionally, to support HP’s continuous delivery model, the software introduces new functionality every few weeks, helping PSPs to drive efficiency and revenue growth. By adopting HP’s Premium PrintOS Suite and Plus plans, customers benefit from frequent updates to not only streamline workflows but also unlock new revenue streams. The latest updates to HP PrintOS Production Hub feature integration of Design & eCommerce orders, enabling centralized order intake with an order dashboard that includes incoming eCommerce orders. These updates also offer consolidated analytics and monitoring for easier access to production data, as well as enhanced collaboration tools such as roles, permissions, comments, tags, and activity feeds, which will be available later this year. Additionally, PSPs can now automatically preflight file checks, assign jobs to printers and directly connect to send the order to RIP. These features are compatible with any printing device and collectively enhance the value of HP’s Premium PrintOS Suite and Plus plans (PPSP), ensuring customers experience daily benefits from premium access while advancing within HP’s evolving ecosystem. Availability The HP Latex FS70 W printer, Productivity Kit and enhanced HP PrintOS Production Hub will start selected availability on November 7, 2025, with general availability in February 2026. Visit the HP booth (#4249) at Printing United from Oct 22-24 in Orlando to experience all new HP Large Format innovations live.  For more information on the HP Latex Printers, please visit: https://www.hp.com/gb-en/printers/large-format/latex-printers.html For more information on the HP PrintOS Production Hub, please visit: https://www.hp.com/gb-en/printers/large-format/printos.html

The IGSA UAE Alumni Association proudly announces the launch of PRINTALK2025, a first-of-its-kind technical seminar dedicated to advancing knowledge in color management and printing technologies. Scheduled for Saturday, 8th November 2025 at the Dusit Tani Hotel, Dubai, the event promises to be a milestone gathering for the region’s printing community. A Knowledge-Driven session for the Printing Industry PRINTALK 2025 is designed as a specialized knowledge-sharing seminar that tackles the most pressing challenges faced by printing professionals today—from keeping pace with fast-evolving global standards to achieving precision in brand color reproduction. Sessions will highlight emerging global trends, pre-press challenges, and press related solutions, with an emphasis on practical takeaways for industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals. Distinguished Speakers & Expert Sessions: The seminar features a stellar lineup of internationally recognized experts: • Dr. Andreas Kraushaar, Head of Prepress, Fogra, Germany Topic: “Emerging Trends in Color Standardization and Visually Reliable Color Standards — From Measurement to Perception.” • Jose Thomas, Principal Consultant, Future Schoolz, India Topic: “Pre-Press Challenges for Perfect Color Reproduction in Modern Printing Environments.” • Kulakkada Pradeep, CEO, Future Schoolz Topic: “Press-Related Challenges in Color Reproduction” followed by a live panel discussion with industry experts. Each session is carefully curated to blend science with real-world practice, ensuring participants walk away with actionable strategies to improve workflows and deliver consistent results. Event Details: • Event: PRINTALK 2025 – Technical Seminar on Color Management & Printing • Date: 8th November 2025 • Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM • Venue: Dusit Tani Hotel, Dubai, UAE • Format: Technical sessions + Expert panel discussion • Entry: Event pass required Who Should Attend: PRINTALK 2025 is a must-attend event for: • Printing professionals & production managers seeking updated standards and workflows • Business owners & entrepreneurs aiming to improve eZiciency and client satisfaction • Designers & brand custodians who manage color-sensitive projects • Technology providers & suppliers looking to connect with decision-makers How to Register: Seats are limited and advance registration is mandatory. To secure your seats or learn more, contact +971 55 478 5516 , +971 52 165 8761 About IGSA UAE: 18+ Years of Community and Industry Impact Founded over 18 years ago, IGSA UAE has grown into a dynamic alumni association representing more than 500 printing professionals and entrepreneurs across the region. With members covering over 90% of the UAE’s printing industry, IGSA UAE stands as a powerful voice driving innovation, collaboration, and professional growth. The association was established by alumni of the Institute of Printing Technology and Government Polytechnic College (Kerala), an institution with a legacy dating back to 1967. Today, IGSA UAE continues to bridge academia and industry by offering career support, knowledge-sharing seminars, and training opportunities while also funding scholarships and supporting students at its alma mater. Beyond professional development, IGSA UAE fosters strong community ties, creating lasting connections that empower individuals and strengthen the printing industry as a whole.

Interview with Mani N, Managing Director, Wellcare Advertising Solutions LLC 1. How would you sum up your SGI Dubai 2025 experience in a few words? Wellcare was a major participant at SGI Dubai 2025. The show marked a milestone for us in showcasing innovation, partnerships, and market leadership. Our participation made a tangible impact in empowering the advertising industry through a focus on innovation and sustainability. 2. What was the biggest highlight for you at the show? We proudly launched three new models in the Epson SureColor Series — S9100, S8100, and S7100. Our Saidex Acrylic Polishing products drew strong attention with live demonstrations, offering effective solutions for acrylic fabricators. Another highlight was the Rigmatech Kaku Dye Sublimation Printers, which stood out for their sustainable printing solutions, aligning perfectly with the industry’s shift towards eco-friendly technologies. 3. How did visitors respond to your products or technologies? The response was truly encouraging. Our booth created strong curiosity and drew consistent visitor traffic. We were able to generate significant buyer interest and successfully close many deals during the event. Hands-on demonstrations and immersive experiences helped us engage meaningfully with potential clients. 4. How did SGI Dubai help you connect with potential partners, customers, or distributors? SGI Dubai provided a powerful platform for reinforcing Wellcare’s leadership position in the advertising industry. We connected with end-customers looking for advanced equipment and attracted distributors eager to represent our growing product line. The event allowed us to form valuable partnerships that will strengthen our regional and global reach. 5. Can you share any highlights or success stories from your participation this year? The show helped convert curiosity into serious purchase decisions while building trust with new and existing partners. Our live technology demos — including real-time printing, cutting, and engraving — resulted in numerous purchase inquiries. We also initiated distribution discussions with leading firms across multiple regions, positioning Wellcare for regional expansion in Q4 2025 and beyond. 6. Looking ahead, how do you plan to build on the momentum and opportunities generated at SGI Dubai 2025? SGI Dubai has strengthened our footprint not only in the UAE but across several untapped markets. Post-show follow-ups are already translating into confirmed sales and service agreements. Visitors and media alike recognised Wellcare as a trusted name in reliable and innovative signage technology — reinforcing our ongoing commitment to lead the industry with quality, innovation, and sustainability.