Konica Minolta is proud to announce that it has retained its position as a ‘Leader’ in Quocirca’s 2025 latest assessment of the print security market, for a fourth consecutive year. The global market insight and research firm which specializes in the convergence of print and digital technologies in the future workplace, recognizes how Konica Minolta ‘retains a keen focus on enhancing print and endpoint security across three pillars – device-level resilience, managed security services, and workflow automation – aligned to support zero trust environments and evolving compliance demands'. Konica Minolta Recognized for Multi-Layered Security Approach Quocirca’s report acknowledges how Konica Minolta's 'multi-layered approach to security helps businesses of all sizes reduce risk, ensure compliance, and future-proof their print infrastructure within broader information security strategies.' The report states, ‘Konica Minolta continues to invest across all areas of its security portfolio – recent examples include developments in authentication, secure firmware delivery, and the Konica Minolta MarketPlace for cloud-based print and scan solutions. Its commitment to ongoing investment in resources and development reinforces its long-term roadmap around secure digital transformation.’ Leveraging AI and Automation for Enhanced Threat Detection Konica Minolta is ideally positioned in this regard with AI. ‘Machine learning and automation are embedded across Konica Minolta's bizhub i-Series MFPs, Shield Guard cloud platform and bizhub SECURE offering to accelerate detection, reduce response time, and lower risk exposure.’ ‘The latest models feature improved SIEM integration, brute-force password attack detection, and flexible anti-virus configurations – aligning with modern enterprise cybersecurity standards.’ Strong Authentication Capabilities Support Compliance Quocirca cites Konica Minolta's multi-factor authentication support as a strength. ‘Embedded PKI support for smartcard (CAC/PIV) authentication and MFA support enables organizations to centrally manage authentication policies, enforce secure print release, and ensure compliance with data protection regulations – while providing a seamless, user-friendly experience across the print environment.’ Enabling Secure Hybrid Work Environments Quocirca also mentions that ‘another key focus area is enabling a secure, seamless, and efficient printing experience for users working from various locations.’ An example of this is the Workplace Pure platform, which guarantees secure document workflows. In this context, Quocirca also highlights the Shield Guard platform as a strength, which offers ‘capabilities including fleet-wide visibility, automated policy remediation, and support for advanced password management workflows [that] are critical for scaling secure print environments across hybrid workplaces.’ Olaf Lorenz, Head of International Marketing Division, Konica Minolta Business Solutions Europe commented, “Print security needs to be an intrinsic part of every organization’s cybersecurity strategy. The good news is that this message is getting through and Konica Minolta is dedicated to expanding its range of workplace solutions, to help every organization equip its employees to work productively and securely.”

  In a milestone moment for the UAE’s digital and business technology landscape, Al Majid Digital Solutions LLC has unveiled its latest Konica Minolta showroom in Dubai. The opening wasn’t just about cutting a ribbon—it was a celebration of more than half a century of collaboration between Al Majid and Konica Minolta, one of Japan’s most respected technology innovators. The event underscored the strength of a partnership that has lasted 51 years, making Al Majid the sole and exclusive distributor of Konica Minolta solutions in the UAE. Senior leaders including Osamu Miyauchi, Managing Director of Konica Minolta Middle East, Al Majid’s Chief Operating Officer Mamoun Al Dour, and General Manager Walid Amin attended the inauguration. Their presence reinforced the strategic importance of this collaboration. For more than five decades, Al Majid Digital Solutions has played a vital role in introducing cutting-edge office automation and digital solutions to the UAE. From the early days of typewriters and copiers to today’s intelligent workflow platforms and smart workplace technologies, the company has consistently adapted to shifting market demands. Al Majid Digital Solutions is not only a distributor—it has established itself as a partner for transformation. With a presence across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and other Emirates, the company supports organisations of all sizes in modernising their operations. “We are dedicated to helping businesses embrace digitalisation and prepare for today’s solution-driven online environment,” said Amin. “Our services across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and beyond have enabled organisations to stay ahead of the digital curve and achieve significant growth.” “The opening of our new Konica Minolta showroom reflects our belief that digital transformation goes beyond new technologies,” Amin added. “It’s about harnessing innovation to drive growth, improve efficiency, and deliver exceptional customer experiences.”

Fast Print, a highly specialised commercial printing and packaging company based in Amman, Jordan, has recently added a new line of digital technology to their short-run printing department. The company has invested in a brand new high-tech state-of-the-art “Konica Minolta Accurio Label 230” digital label roll-to-roll printing machine for their printing facility. The brand new machine offers short-run print jobs of multi-colour, high-quality digital label prints on the most common types of label materials. The machine prints on labels and cartons up to 256 gsm, with a printing width of 33cm and a maximum speed of 23.4 m/min, in roll format. Other advantages include offset-like resolution with high-precision finish, feeding speed detection for more accurate print registration, and a web cleaning system for better quality. The AccurioLabel 230’s image density control technology and advanced colour management tools also guarantee colour consistency. With this new investment, the new Konica Minolta Accurio Label 230 digital label machine has added a new production line of printing to their company in addition to their current offset sheet, digital sheet, flexo narrow-web, and indoor/outdoor large format printing, making Fast Print one of the Jordan’s leading printers to have all printing solutions under one roof. Managing Director, Francis Dababneh, and his son, Deputy Director Adham F. Dababneh, said: "The new digital press can handle any label print job in minutes. This new technology in digital short-run printing can work in parallel with our flexographic narrow-web, long-run jobs. We can thus meet our customers’ satisfaction, with quality and timing. The new Konica Minolta Accurio Label 230 digital label press machine will help our business in many ways. The machine will increase our sales, thanks to its high-speed operation and high-quality prints, as per its advanced specifications. Since all customers look for quick and on-the-spot delivery, our new digital label roll-to-roll machine guarantees print jobs done within minutes. We believe customers these days also ask for short-run quantities and, most importantly, variable printing of labels, especially on roll. However, this can’t be done with our current flexographic label machines. In our opinion, the new Konica Minolta Accurio Label 230 digital label printing machine is the right choice to compete in the market and to meet our customers’ demands, as well as being up to date in the digital era of printing. We continuously invest in the latest printing technology to compete and to meet our clients' standards."

Koenig & Bauer, a globally leading manufacturer of printing presses, has announced the launch of its comprehensive Artificial Intelligence (AI) programme, ‘AI Empower 25’. With this strategic initiative, the company underscores its pioneering spirit and secures its competitiveness through the forward-thinking integration of AI technologies and a unique training approach for its employees. As part of a groundbreaking partnership with Google, Koenig & Bauer is immediately providing its teams with a range of powerful AI tools. These include the Gemini App as a versatile AI assistant, Gemini Advanced for Workspace for integrated AI assistance directly within Google tools, NotebookLM Plus for specialised knowledge tasks based on internal company documents, and Google Vids for AI-supported video creation. The introduction of these tools, particularly Gemini for Workspace and NotebookLM Plus, marks a decisive step towards a more efficient and productive working environment at Koenig & Bauer. The core of the ‘AI Empower 25’ programme, however, lies not only in the provision of cutting-edge technologies but much more in the belief in the ability and potential of employees to make optimal use of these technologies. Under the motto ‘The Power Is You!’, Koenig & Bauer is adopting a decentralised training approach. Over the coming months, executives and selected AI Champions from around the world will receive intensive training and will act as multipliers and first points of contact for their colleagues. While the specific training is initially reserved for the AI Champions, the AI tools are already available to all employees to gain early experience and benefit from the advantages of AI in their daily work. Further training opportunities will follow to ensure broad acceptance and utilisation. As an incentive for innovative ideas and outstanding commitment in dealing with AI, the AI Award will be presented in December. This prize aims to honour the creative use of the new tools and the development of solutions to improve daily work. “With ‘AI Empower 25’, we are once again demonstrating our pioneering spirit,” says Dr Stephen Kimmich, CEO of Koenig & Bauer. “We are convinced that the successful integration of Artificial Intelligence not only increases efficiency and productivity but also sustainably strengthens our company’s innovative power. By actively involving our employees in this change and providing them with targeted training, we ensure that we remain at the forefront of technological development and secure our competitiveness in the long term.” Koenig & Bauer isn't just boosting its internal AI expertise through the 'AI Empower 25' programme; it's also investing externally in AI-based solutions. Koenig & Bauer Kyana, a business unit spun off from the Group's digital unit on 1 April 2025, focuses on developing digital business models, as well as AI and data-based solutions throughout the entire lifecycle of print products. Its digital product portfolio already includes established solutions like Kyana Assist, the AI-powered expert, and Kyana Data, an intelligent production data analysis tool. This portfolio is continuously being expanded with other pioneering AI and data-based applications to meet customer needs even more precisely and to maximise growth potential in the dynamic market segment. While 'AI Empower 25' focuses on empowering Koenig & Bauer's own employees to boost internal efficiency and productivity, Koenig & Bauer Kyana's products and offerings aim to support customers in the print and packaging industry with innovative digital solutions and optimise their production processes. With ‘AI Empower 25’, Koenig & Bauer is setting a new standard in the industry and demonstrating how a forward-thinking approach to digitalisation and employee training can pave the way for a successful future.

Dubai, the global epicenter for innovation, business, and transformative technologies, is preparing to host the highly anticipated 28th edition of SGI Dubai 2025, scheduled to take place at the prestigious Dubai World Trade Centre on 22nd, 23rd and 24th September this year. Widely recognized as the largest and most influential trade show for the printing, signage, and imaging industries in the Middle East and Africa, SGI Dubai 2025 is poised to set new standards for industry excellence, innovation, and global collaboration. Following the remarkable success of the 2024 edition, expectations for SGI Dubai 2025 are soaring. Last year, exhibitors reported unprecedented sales, with numerous machines selling out on the very first day, reflecting the vibrant and expanding demand across the region. Industry leaders anticipate this year’s event to break previous records as exhibitors prepare to showcase their latest high-value equipment, including state-of-the-art wide-format digital printers, sophisticated 3D printing systems, and innovative textile printing solutions. “SGI Dubai has consistently established itself as the foremost platform driving business growth and innovation within the global printing and signage sectors," notes Abdulrahman Falaknaz, President of International Expo-Consults (IEC), the event’s organizers. "This year, we are confident of surpassing all previous benchmarks. Our exhibitors are gearing up for robust sales and valuable partnerships that are only achievable through this unparalleled event." Attracting global decision-makers and investors SGI Dubai 2025 is expected to attract curated buyers and high-caliber investors from over 75 countries. The event’s dedicated matchmaking services will facilitate targeted engagements, fostering valuable connections between global exhibitors and key decision-makers from diverse sectors, including retail solutions, media agencies, real estate, automotive transformation, hospitality, and more. The carefully selected audience ensures exhibitors can confidently anticipate significant returns on investment and meaningful collaborations. "The strength of SGI Dubai lies in its ability to attract influential buyers and investors ready to engage and commit," explains Falaknaz. "This curated environment amplifies opportunities for exhibitors to secure immediate business deals and long-term strategic partnerships, making participation an essential investment." Expansive and comprehensive industry profiles SGI Dubai 2025 will comprehensively cover multiple industry sectors, ensuring attendees and exhibitors can explore specialized, cutting-edge solutions tailored to their needs. Exhibitors will showcase advancements across diverse areas: Digital and Large-Format Printing: Revolutionary high-quality, large-scale printing technologies. Textile Printing: Cutting-edge solutions and sustainable printing advancements. 3D Printing: Innovative applications across numerous industries. Vehicle Graphics and Wrapping: Latest trends and technologies in automotive branding. LED and Digital Signage: Groundbreaking digital display innovations. Screen Printing: Advanced screen-printing solutions. Signage Materials and Supplies: Premium materials and essential substrates. Inks and Substrates: New developments in printing inks and compatible substrates. Metal Cutting and Fabrication: State-of-the-art precision metal fabrication solutions. A region poised for growth with unmatched opportunities in MEA A region in build-mode: across MEA, airports, rail, roads, mixed-use districts and sustainable cities are expanding—driving demand for print, OOH, wayfinding, décor and digital signage. In the UAE, Dubai has green-lit the AED 128bn expansion of Al Maktoum International, ultimately lifting capacity to 260m passengers over the next decade (https://mediaoffice.ae/en/news/2024/april/28-04/al-maktoum-international-airport).  In Qatar, Ashghal’s new QR 81bn (US$22bn) five-year plan (2025–2029) runs alongside the billion dollar Doha Metro and the US$45bn Lusail City programme. (https://www.wsp.com/en-qa/projects/doha-metro-qatar). In Kuwait, investment continues with Kuwait International Airport Terminal 2 (US$4.3bn) and landmark assets such as the Sheikh Jaber Causeway (US$3.6bn). (https://araburban.org/en/infohub/projects/?id=6839&utm_source).  Region-wide, the proposed GCC Railway (US$250bn; 2,177 km) signals long-term opportunities across transit environments. UAE – Al Maktoum International expansion: AED 128bn; capacity up to 260m passengers. https://www.newsweek.com/250-billion-mega-rail-project-gulf-states-1970603?utm_source) Spotlight on creativity and innovation with Car wrapping Car wrapping takes center stage on the show floor. Across all three days, specialist applicators will run live demonstrations covering color-change wraps, paint-protection film (PPF), commercial liveries, and fleet graphics. Sessions walk visitors through surface prep, panel planning, handling deep recesses and complex curves, knife-less trimming, and post-heating for durability. Attendees can compare films and finishes up close, ask technical questions, and pick up tips to speed installs and reduce rework—no contest, just practical, hands-on learning. Knowledge Series to drive industry transformation Integral to SGI Dubai 2025 is the SGI Knowledge Series, a premier annual conference running alongside the exhibition. Industry experts and thought leaders will delve into critical issues shaping the future, such as digital transformation, sustainability, artificial intelligence integration, and evolving market dynamics. Attendees will gain practical insights and actionable strategies to stay competitive and innovative in their fields. "The Knowledge Series is about more than just learning—it’s about equipping our attendees with tools and insights that directly impact their business success," says Falaknaz. "We’re committed to providing a space where the industry can collaborate, innovate, and navigate future challenges confidently." Setting the stage for unprecedented success SGI Dubai 2025 is meticulously designed to exceed industry expectations, building upon the phenomenal success of previous editions. Attendees can expect compelling live demonstrations, groundbreaking product launches, and immersive workshops tailored to inspire creativity, innovation, and collaboration. SGI Dubai serves not just as an exhibition but as a powerful marketplace where business growth is actively cultivated and realized. A call to local, regional, global exhibitors to secure their future success With an unmatched reputation for delivering tangible business outcomes, SGI Dubai 2025 offers exhibitors a unique opportunity to connect directly with influential buyers, industry leaders, and global investors. For businesses aiming to expand their international footprint, establish critical partnerships, and showcase their innovations to a highly targeted audience, participation in SGI Dubai 2025 is indispensable. Mr. Falaknaz encapsulates the opportunity succinctly: "SGI Dubai is more than an event—it’s the epicenter of innovation and strategic business growth. We invite exhibitors from around the globe to join us in shaping the future of the printing, signage, and imaging industries." Visit SGI Dubai 2025 from 22–24 September at the Dubai World Trade Centre to see the industry in action, with printers, cutters, inks, media, LEDs and digital signage running side by side in live demos. Come with specifications and floor plans to tackle real projects—meet suppliers who can quote, prototype and install. Learn what’s next at the SGI Knowledge Series with practical sessions on sustainability, AI-driven workflows and new revenue applications. Use matchmaking to schedule meetings with manufacturers, distributors and solution providers from across MEA. Pre-register to fast-track entry and receive updates on floor features, show offers and workshop schedules.

As SGI Dubai 2025—the 28th edition of the region’s biggest print, signage, and imaging expo—gears up to welcome the global industry, Wellcare Advertising Solutions LLC is preparing to make a powerful mark. According to Managing Director Mani N., this year promises to be “bigger and more immersive than ever,” with Wellcare offering not just product launches but also live demos, workshops, and dynamic experiences. The Middle East and Africa are fast emerging as hotspots for print and signage technologies, and Wellcare is positioning itself at the forefront of this growth. Visitors to the company’s booth can expect to see an impressive line-up, including wide-format printers, acrylic finishing machines, 3D printers, and precision cutting and engraving technologies. Reflecting on SGI Dubai 2024, Mani notes that the event proved to be an invaluable platform for building strong connections with distributors, suppliers, buyers, and tech innovators across the region and beyond. “SGI gives us the opportunity to form partnerships and expand our market reach across the Middle East and Africa,” he explains. This year, Wellcare is set to unveil a broad spectrum of state-of-the-art products and innovations, among them the new Epson SureColor Series, advanced acrylic finishing machines, AI-driven cutting and printing solutions, and precision textile printing technologies. These launches highlight the company’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve in a market where speed, scale, personalization, and sustainability are reshaping demand. The industry is evolving rapidly, with eco-conscious clients increasingly looking for sustainable solutions such as water-based and UV-curable inks, recyclable and PVC-free materials, and energy-efficient machinery. At the same time, traditional applications like banners, vehicle wraps, building wraps, and retail displays continue to create bold, eye-catching brand experiences. Wellcare aims to address both sides of the spectrum by combining innovation with sustainability. Looking ahead, Mani emphasizes that Wellcare’s strategy revolves around innovation, diversification, and value-added services. SGI Dubai 2025 is central to that plan, acting as both a showcase and a strategic accelerator. “SGI attracts decision-makers from the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, making it the perfect platform for lead generation and expansion talks,” Mani says. For Wellcare, SGI Dubai 2025 is not just another exhibition—it’s a springboard for growth and a stage to reinforce its leadership in the advertising and signage sector.

The FESPA Foundation has announced Durst Group as its first official partner since FESPA Global Print Expo 2025. The company’s involvement will see it supporting the FESPA Foundation and sponsoring Malekapane Primary School. This partnership is a significant step forward in the FESPA Foundation’s mission to leverage the power of print to facilitate education and improve the lives of children in underserved communities. The ‘Adopt a School’ initiative, created by Neil Felton, CEO of FESPA, and overseen by Steve Thobela, FESPA Foundation’s Africa Coordinator, connects printing businesses with schools in dire need of resources, primarily in South Africa. Currently, the schools involved with the initiative are based in Limpopo, but the FEPSA Foundation plans to expand to Malawi, Kenya and Tanzania. The programme goes beyond the FESPA Foundation supplying printed educational materials; it also addresses critical needs, such as safe infrastructure, food security and basic facilities, such as clean and functional toilets. This is because the FESPA Foundation recognises that the impact of print is only maximised when the schools’ fundamental necessities are met. Commenting on Durst’s partnership with the FESPA Foundation and its commitment to sponsoring school, Neil Felton, CEO, FESPA, comments: “We are delighted to announce that Durst is the first organisation in our community to join our ‘Adopt a School’ initiative by partnering with Malekapane Primary School. We look forward to sharing the inspiring journey ahead, as both Durst and the school embark on this meaningful collaboration.” Steve Thobela adds: “We are incredibly excited to welcome Durst as our first official ‘Adopt a School’ partner. Durst’s support – specifically targetted to Malekapane Primary School – will allow us to create an environment where print can truly make a difference in inspiring and educating young minds. Ultimately, its commitment will directly impact the lives of the many children who attend Malekapane Primary School, helping to positively shape their lives in the future.” Christoph Gamper, CEO & Co-Owner of Durst Group, highlights: “We are truly honoured to be the first partner to step forward and also to take up the FESPA Foundation’s ‘Adopt a School’ initiative by sponsoring Malekapane Primary School. Supporting this project marks more than just a contribution to education — it symbolises the values that have shaped Durst over the past nine decades: innovation, responsibility and long-term impact. As we approach our 90th anniversary in 2026, we see this partnership as a meaningful way to give back and set the tone for the next chapter of Durst — one that continues to combine cutting-edge technology with real-world purpose.” The FESPA Foundation highlights three other schools in the Limpopo province – Batau Primary School, Pitseng ya Thuto Primary School and Madisei Primary School – as prospective beneficiaries of the ‘Adopt a School’ initiative. These schools grapple with issues ranging from dilapidated buildings and overcrowded classrooms, to a lack of fencing, unsafe sanitation and inadequate kitchen facilities. Durst’s involvement as the first official partner of the FESPA Foundation, and its commitment to sponsoring a school, sets a powerful precedent for other industry leaders to join the FESPA Foundation’s vital cause. The partnership with Durst will help the FEPA Foundation to: secure long-term sustainability for its projects; expand its global reach; and strengthen partnerships that go beyond one-off support. The FESPA Foundation now invites companies interested in supporting this initiative to learn more and get involved, by visiting: www.fespafoundation.com