The event, a partnership between Fespa and South African event organiser Practical Publishing (PP), will incorporate PP’s existing Sign Africa Expo and Visual Communications Africa events.

The combined events will have a footprint of 13,500sqm, with an anticipated 150 exhibitors, and a target of more than 6,000 visitors from Africa and Europe.

Michael Ryan, Fespa group exhibition manager, said: "Global manufacturers consider Fespa Africa and the integrated Sign Africa expo as the perfect regional event to attract visitors from across the continent. 

“The early response has been tremendous and we look forward to providing the community an event to see new equipment and business opportunities."

Sponsored by Roland and Avery Dennison, the event has already signed up other major exhibitors including Epson, HP, Mimaki, Durst, Kodak, OKI, Kornit Digital, Fujifilm, Agfa, swissQprint, Esko, Seiko, Aristo, Optimus, Pantone, Evonik, Sharp, Monti Antonio and MS Italy.

Director and organiser of Fespa Africa, Dyelan Copeland, said: "The stand reservations and growth have come from both existing exhibitors booking larger stands and attracting new exhibitors to the event. 

“We are really happy with the Fespa partnership and confident we will deliver a great Fespa Africa for the regional print and signage community."