Media Expo 2024, an exhibition for indoor and outdoor advertising, branding and signage solutions, began on 12 September 2024 at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. The three-day event, running from 12 to 14 September, brings together innovative minds in the advertising and signage industry to showcase the latest trends, technologies, and products.
The expo features 125 exhibitors from across India along with Italy, Korea and China, offering a platform for networking, knowledge exchange and business opportunities. The opening ceremony was attended by industry dignitaries, including chief guest Mukesh Gupta, chairman and managing director, Graphisads, special guest Tony Miller, executive officer, global sales and marketing division, DG Corporation and others.
The event saw the convergence of B2B professionals, including business owners, advertising agencies, graphic designers, brand managers and several other key decision-makers, all eager to explore the cutting-edge solutions that will shape the future of advertising, branding and signage.
With the growth of digital technology, the industry is at a crossroads. While digital advertising continues to grow, print remains a crucial component of many campaigns. This discussion was at the forefront of discussions during the event’s first-day conference, which focused on innovation, sustainability, and the importance of print within the printing ecosystem.
Photo- IPP
In the panel discussion that discussed OOH advertising on digital versus print, Yuvraj Agarwal, chief strategy officer, Laqshya Media Group said, “Out of the Rs-7000 crore OOH industry, digital OOH (out-of-home) is only 9%. The remaining 91% relies on print. Those concerned that print is a dying medium should check out the numbers.” While acknowledging the growth potential of digital OOH, which he predicted could rise to 20-25% over the next decade, Agarwal emphasized that print would continue to play a dominant role in the industry. “Outdoor is not digital media. Outdoor is known for the impact that we create by the sheer size of it,” he said.
Many exhibitors took the opportunity to conduct live demonstrations, giving attendees a first-hand experience of the machines in action. From printing technologies to signage systems, attendees were able to witness the final products being created on the spot, allowing them to compare the quality and performance of different offerings in real time.
Muhammad Rafiq Shaikh, sales and service leader, South Asia, Kongsberg PCS, said, “At an exhibition like Media Expo, displaying the final product allows attendees to compare the output from different companies, all in one place”. While he acknowledged that exhibitions are not typically the place to finalize deals, Shaikh stressed that they are excellent venues for generating leads and building connections.
Konica Minolta used its booth to showcase both the machines and the finished products they produce. The company emphasized the quality of its output, drawing attention to the clarity and vibrancy that their machines can deliver. Fujifilm, participating in the Media Expo for the first time, echoed this approach, demonstrating both the machinery and its capabilities to potential buyers.
Mukesh Gupta said, “I have been seeing Media Expo for the last 15 years and there is a huge difference between what it was and what it is today. There has been a lot of progress and new developments in India as well as internationally in this field. Media Expo has tried to do something new with each show and this year’s show is wonderful. In fact, I would say that this is the ‘Maha Kumbh’ of media. Whoever is related to the outdoor industry, events or printing should attend and explore new opportunities and expand their knowledge by knowing what is happening in India and the world.”
Tony Miller said, “We’ve been involved in the Indian market through our partner APSOM for the last 30 years but we have really seen that we have reached a pivotal role in the market place where new innovations and creativity are driving new markets so we are really excited to come to the show and attend with our staff for Japan and around the world in partnership with APSOM to really showcase the innovations we have launched recently for the hardware technologies, support sustainability at lower cost of ownership to the Indian market so we really appreciate your support.”
Raj Manek, executive director and board member, Messe Frankfurt Asia Holdings, said, “Media Expo has always been a catalyst for innovations in the advertising industry. This year, we are proud to present a diverse range of products and solutions that not only meet the needs of today’s market, but also set the stage for future growth. We are confident that Media Expo New Delhi 2024 will inspire new ideas, open pathways for new collaborations and drive the industry towards a more sustainable and dynamic future.”
