Leads the regional Large Format Printing (LFP) market with 73% market share according to IDC

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, February 28, 2007 - HP Middle East leads the large format printing (LFP) market in the Middle East with 73% market share (according to latest IDC figures) and this is due to the ever-growing demand for graphics and outdoor/indoor media across the region. HP announced today at the Sign and Graphics Imaging 2007 that the PSP market, which comprises repro-houses, digital print shops, sign makers, quick printers/copy shops, screen printers and commercial printers, continue to be one of HP's most important printing markets.

Mr. Amr Hassan, General Manager, HP Middle East, said: "The Middle East is witnessing heavy penetration of branding by regional and international companies and this is leading to tremendous demand for large format printers that deliver exceptional quality and speed at low costs of operation. HP offers printers that provide best in class technology, output and features, and are easy-to-operate. In addition, HP LFP printers are well known for their durability and reliability. HP LFP solutions offer a great value proposition for companies looking to meet high customer demand, increasing printing capacity and high print quality."

HP confirmed that the LFP market in the Middle East is growing both in the technical and graphics categories. HP recently expanded its large format product portfolio with high-performing and cost-effective solutions that make it easier for PSPs who want to switch from analogue to digital-based printing.

HP is also one of the few leading large format supplies manufacturers designing and delivering large format printers, media and ink, thus providing a complete print solution to ensure flawless compatibility and optimum performance. 

HP Designjet 10000s - HP's latest addition.

Apart from the HP Designjet 8000s, 5500 and Z3100, this year HP is also showcasing the recently launched Designjet 10000s at the Sign and Graphics Imaging 2007. HP's new offering is capable of printing 16.35 sqm/hr, the HP Designjet 10000s prints eye-catching signs, banners, billboards, wall murals, and window and vehicle graphics with vivid colours in resolutions up to 720 x 720 dpi.  Users can broaden the span of applications they produce and provide more options to customers, all while printing on economical uncoated media for lower running costs and greater return-on-investment. 

Equipped with a sophisticated media handling system, the HP Designjet 10000s Printer enables dual-sided, dual-roll printing as well as printing on unlined mesh, providing users with the increased productivity and value needed to help enhance profitability.

HP Scitex XL1200/1500 - Go super-wide HP.

On display at Sign & Graphics Imaging 2007, are the 3.2 meter HP Scitex XL1200 and the 5 meter XL1500, opening a clear path to super-wide printing success. Available in 4, 6 or 8 colors, the XL1200/1500 are available in 4, 6 or 8 colors delivering a unique combination of high-productivity and performance, cost effective production and superb print quality.

Partnerships with key software vendors

To strengthen its large format product offerings further, HP has established partnerships with key independent software vendors (ISVs) such as Adobe, Autodesk, Bentley, Ratio and Solidworks plus independent hardware vendors (IHVs) like Contex and Es-Te for technical production printing, as well as Onyx, Caldera, ColorGATE, Eisfeld PosterJet and Scanvec Amiable for graphics production printing. These partnerships help PSPs better meet their customer's needs. The partnerships provide an array of third-party software applications and extended hardware solutions that work alongside the HP Designjet printers. PSPs can expand their portfolio of printing services by creating customised workflows reflecting their individual needs. These third-party workflow solutions include print production planning, file preparation, print management and finishing.

For more information on HP Designjet printers, please visit www.hp.com/me/designjet

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About HP
HP focuses on simplifying technology experiences for all of its customers - from individual consumers to the largest businesses. With a portfolio that spans printing, personal computing, software, services and IT infrastructure, HP is among the world's largest IT companies, with revenue totaling $94.1 billion for the four fiscal quarters ended Jan. 31, 2007. More information about HP (NYSE: HPQ) is available at www.hp.com.

About HP Middle East
HP is the largest technology and solutions provider in the Middle East with 670 employees and subsidiaries in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, Jeddah, Khobar, Cairo, Ramallah, Oman and 2 service Joint Ventures in Kuwait and Bahrain servicing the GCC, Egypt and the Levant. HP has been present in the Middle East since 1968 and opened its first regional office in 1994. HP Middle East is the market leader for enterprise, small and medium business and consumer technology products and offers a large portfolio of solutions and services in various business domains.

© Press Release 2007