Raqam International, a Riyadh-based label printer and converter specialised in computer-cut vinyl stickers, signage, retail product labels, barcodes and laser and computer labels, has invested $3.5m to develop its converting lines to serve new markets.
“A-class markets” for labelling – primarily in the food, beverage and pharma labelling sectors – are now a target for the company, said Khalid Aziz Shah, general manager of Raqam Labels and Ribbon Factory.
“Looking at the market growth and demand for high-quality labelling we have invested $3.5m in new equipment and software to enhance our quality and production,” he told Packaging MEA.
“The new buy includes a Nilpeter FA4 press and an AB Graphics slitter/inspection system from Nilpeter Middle East. We have also invested in a Prati Saturn and Prati Jupiter slitting and inspection system from its regional distributor Printech Middle East.”
The new equipment marks a shift in the firm’s strategy in line with its development, he added.
“As we started our company we were targeting low- and medium-level jobs only,” he said. “However, as we have grown in size as well as capacity, we now are also keen to tap high-end labelling jobs.”
Aziz Shah added that the Saudi labelling market would have further potential for growth if restrictions on foreign investment were eased.
“Although we appreciate the Saudi government for providing more relaxed policies for foreign investors like us, the market can grow much bigger and wider – and trade investors from other parts of the globe would be interested to invest in Saudi – if the policies are more favourable,” he said.