Physical expos make a strong comeback signalling market return to normalcy

At the starting of 2022 we were still cautious whether the pandemic will linger further in the market or not. But now we all see the situation starts opening up and happy to see many domestic and international trade expos in the graphic arts sector have already been held with good participation of exhibitors and visitors. In India, all the leading trade exhibitions in the sector have set schedules for in-person editions, which are the need of the hour for all of us to meet face-to-face, carry the pending businesses forward, and revive the fun we had in the pre-pandemic times.

In fact, when we witnessed long duration of just virtual interactions in place of physical trade expos throughout the lockdown or restricted times the spark and excitement of personal interactions were amiss and we all have been enthusiastically looking forward to full renewal of physical trade expos. One thing is very clear here—physical expos are coming back with a bang, we got to get the long-lost opportunity of in-person interactions and after all it also brings back the business of those establishments involving into physical event management, stall fabrications, installations, etc.

Undeniable fact is that the physical exhibitions have always been a vital attraction for the signage industry. In this, we all know one of the most valuable benefits of attending a physical expo in our industry is that people utterly like to experience the live demos of machines and products. Such importance of direct contact cannot be undermined. From new product launch to business deals, physical expos are the ideal platforms to understand business directions and discuss with the industry fellows.

Amidst this rejoice of physical expos making a strong comeback, here is a little alert concerning the effect of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war to the supply chain business. Shippers may suffer from the chaotic uncertainty in container shipping caused by the war disruption on freight services and trade route transits. As every supply chain may suffer a negative impact from this crisis, for example, with fuel prices surging and shipping routes being cancelled or diverted, it would be wise decision for everyone to stockpile printing media as well as other materials now.

In this issue, our Region Exclusive column features Manipur, a far flung picturesque state in North-East India. This small state is known for women’s strong participation in all business verticals, including the signage market. Most of the PSPs in Imphal and other towns are enthusiastic about the emerging prospects in the region’s signage market. They are getting ready to grab modern technologies like UV and Latex printing to move ahead. We wish them best of luck!

Sonal Khurana
sonal@smediagroup.in