Oriental Weavers and NedGraphics mark decades of innovation with a strategic agreement
Under the agreement, NedGraphics will provide advanced software solutions to streamline design workflows, enhance color management, and boost production efficiency—strengthening Oriental Weavers' ability to deliver trend-led collections to over 118 countries
Commenting on the partnership, Ms. Yasmine Khamis, Chair of Oriental Weavers Carpets, stated: 'For decades, NedGraphics has supported us in uniting design artistry with technological precision. This renewed partnership reflects our continued investment in tools and collaborations that drive creativity, efficiency, and global competitiveness.
Mr. Frank Maeder, President of NedGraphics, added: 'It's a privilege to support Oriental Weavers' evolving vision—delivering trend-driven, high-quality collections while preserving the craftsmanship that defines their legacy. Together, we are shaping the future of textile and carpet design—where heritage meets innovation and digital tools elevate creativity.'
The partnership will progress through four phases: software integration, hands-on training, co-development of tailored tools, and long-term digital advancement. With the world's largest carpet design archive—housing over 4.5 million patterns—Oriental Weavers remains committed to investing in solutions that inspire creativity and reduce environmental impact.
By digitizing millions of patterns and optimizing production, the Oriental Weavers–NedGraphics collaboration continues to enhance agility, precision, and sustainability—driving the future of floor coverings, where artistry and impact align.
About Oriental Weavers Group:
The Oriental Weavers Group was founded in 1979 by industrialist and entrepreneur Mohammed Farid Khamis. Listed on the Egyptian Stock Exchange (EGX) since 1997, the Group has grown from a single loom operation to become the largest producer of machine-woven carpets in the world. Drawing from Egypt's rich textile heritage, dating back to c.5000 BC, Oriental Weavers is now a global leader in tufted and jet-printed carpets. Based in Cairo, the Group has manufacturing facilities in the United States and Egypt and distributes its products in over 118 countries. Oriental Weavers is committed to innovative manufacturing processes, inspired by the latest trends, and providing products that are both accessible and of high quality, crafted to deliver lasting value and happiness to its customers.
About NedGraphics:
NedGraphics™ is the leading provider of textile design and CAD/CAM software solutions for the apparel, home furnishings, flooring, and broader textile industries. The company's mission is to empower designers through innovative tools that seamlessly merge creativity with technology. NedGraphics solutions enable users to develop production-ready artwork with greater speed, accuracy, and efficiency. By digitizing design and development processes, the software helps reduce errors, streamline workflows, and lower sampling costs, supporting both productivity and sustainability goals. NedGraphics is part of FOG Software Group, a division of Constellation Software Inc. (TSX: CSU).
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Khaleej Times
19 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
The property playbook 2025: Inside the UAE's real estate reset
The UAE property market has always been a powerhouse of ambition and innovation, but 2025 marks a new chapter; one defined by precision, purpose, and a pivot towards long-term sustainability. No longer is success in real estate about chasing the biggest or most luxurious asset. Today's investor is discerning, data-driven, and highly attuned to lifestyle shifts. They're asking tougher questions, seeking smarter returns, and demanding properties that offer more than just four walls; they want flexibility, community, tech-savvy features, and enduring value. From the bustling mid-market hubs of Dubai to the quietly booming emirates of Ras Al Khaimah and Sharjah, the UAE's real estate scene is being redefined. Factors like hybrid work culture, affordability, branded residences, and energy efficiency are no longer perks; they're prerequisites. As government policies focus on urban planning, affordability, and smart city ambitions, developers and investors are recalibrating their strategies to stay ahead. Against this dynamic backdrop, BTR spoke to Hamdan Al Kaitoob, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Deyaar, and Cherif Sleiman, Chief Revenue Officer at Property Finder on what's next. Their exclusive insights unpack the forces shaping investor priorities from shifting buyer profiles and pricing sweet spots to geographic trends and the growing demand for tech-integrated, community-centric living. Exploring what it truly means to make a 'smart investment' in 2025 and why the smartest decisions start with understanding what people really want from their homes, their communities, and their futures. "In 2025, when people talk about 'investment-grade' properties, they're usually looking at a combination of location, design, and operational efficiency," says Hamdan Al Kaitoob of Deyaar. 'Prime locations near urban hubs, transport links, and essential amenities like schools and hospitals are key here. But now, properties that are move-in ready with modern tech and energy-efficient systems and feature flexible layouts, are catching investors' eyes. For instance, homes with keyless entry, high-speed Wi-Fi, and adaptable spaces for remote work are commanding higher rental yields,' he added. 'Investors are also prioritising properties with professional management and tech-enabled operations, which can boost revenue retention,' he said. Technological advancements in property management are making a notable difference. "AI-powered analytics and IoT-enabled smart buildings have helped reduce operational costs by up to 20 per cent," he adds, citing US firm Primior's findings. At Deyaar's Park Five, for example, wellness features, sustainable systems, and community-centric design reflect these priorities. Community vs independent living: What do Investors prefer? Investor sentiment is clearly leaning toward community-focused developments, notes Al Kaitoob. Post-Covid shifts in lifestyle have made mixed-use communities with residential, commercial, and recreational elements more attractive than ever. "Projects like Midtown and Park Five were designed to create opportunities for social connection," he explains. Shared spaces like rooftop gardens, co-working areas, and wellness zones are more than amenities; they're key selling points. Even Deyaar's new AYA Beachfront Residences in Umm Al Quwain reflects this trend with its community hub that combines dining, social, and recreational facilities. This mirrors a global movement towards boutique-style living; exclusive yet communal, offering connection without compromising on privacy. Flexibility is booming: "Absolutely, this segment is on the rise," confirms Al Kaitoob. Residences like DWTN Residences offer the prestige and amenities of top-tier hotels with the stability of private property ownership. It's a formula that's increasingly attracting high-net-worth individuals. Meanwhile, hybrid work culture has intensified the demand for flexible-use properties. "Park Five integrates outdoor coworking zones and wellness areas to serve both professionals and families," he says. The focus is clear: versatility, well-being, and functionality in one package. Investor priorities: It's no longer just yields Investors today are more strategic. While Dubai's healthy 6.31 per cent city-wide rental yield (Global Property Guide) remains attractive, they're also betting on long-term capital growth and resale potential, according to Al Kaitoob. "Our ELEVE project in Jebel Ali targets all three objectives: income, appreciation, and exit potential," Al Kaitoob says. Branded projects and those with green or smart certifications are especially appealing for their value retention and resale advantages. Hybrid work is now a real estate factor: The lines between work and home have blurred permanently. "Homes are now expected to be offices, gyms, and wellness retreats all at once," says Al Kaitoob. Deyaar has responded with properties like Park Five, which offers outdoor coworking and fitness centres. Their flagship DWTN Residences takes it even further with AI meditation pods, air yoga zones, and playrooms; reimagining what holistic urban living can look like. Globally too, apartments with convertible spaces are outperforming traditional layouts in terms of occupancy, he continues. Mid-market momentum: What the numbers say The Dh1-3 million bracket is powering the UAE's real estate momentum, says Cherif Sleiman of Property Finder. "It's consistently clocking over 8,000 transactions per month, double that of the sub-Dh1 million segment." Affordability has become a cornerstone of buyer decisions, especially after Dubai's government announced affordable housing initiatives aligned with the 2040 Urban Master Plan. "This segment contributes to about 30 per cent of monthly transaction value and shows high stability and mortgage activity," Sleiman adds. Apartment sizes in demand: Apartment living remains king, but size matters. Property Finder data shows that 34 per cent of renters are looking for one-beds, 30 per cent for two-beds, and only 11 per cent for studios. That means compact but practical spaces are in high demand, especially among first-time buyers and young families. Shift toward ready properties in mid-tier segment: There's a noticeable pivot away from off-plan properties in the Dh1-3 million range. "We saw a 5 per cent dip in off-plan interest and an 8 per cent rise in demand for ready units from January to May 2025 compared to last year," says Sleiman. While off-plan properties still have their appeal, especially with flexible payment plans, ready units are gaining traction for their immediate rental returns and reduced risk. Geographic hotspots: The unexpected winners Data from Dubai Land Department pinpoints several emerging communities leading the mid-market charge: Culture Village, Wasl Gate, and Motor City have seen transaction volume growth of over 100 per cent. Meanwhile, Jebel Ali, Al Safa, Al Wasl, and Wadi Al Safa 3 have each recorded over 50 per cent growth. Is oversupply a risk? "From a top-line perspective, we are not seeing an oversupply,' assures Sleiman. The market is healthy, particularly in the apartment category. Studio, one-bed, and two-bed options still dominate searches. Meanwhile, the villa and townhouse segment, which historically faced a shortage, is now seeing a healthy pipeline of new launches. International vs local demand: International interest in mid-market properties is robust, led by buyers from the USA, UK, India, Egypt, and Germany. Interestingly, Sleiman notes a rise in Ultra High Net Worth Individuals from these regions showing interest in premium offerings too, suggesting that Dubai's market appeal spans the full investment spectrum. Beyond Dubai: RAK and Sharjah surge forward Property Finder Data reveals that RAK and Sharjah are making quiet but powerful moves. Ras Al Khaimah recorded a 40 per cent spike in monthly interest from January to May 2025 compared to 2024, buoyed by big-ticket projects like Wynn Al Marjan Island. Sharjah saw an even more impressive 63 per cent surge. Improved infrastructure, expanding developer activity, and more accessible pricing have made it a standout for end-users and investors alike. Al Ain remains stable, an ideal choice for conservative long-horizon investments. Off-plan vs ready, primary vs secondary: What's the balance? "Investors are diversifying strategies more than ever," notes Sleiman. In 2025, off-plan deals average 3,200 monthly, still leading the charts, but down from a peak of 6,000 in October 2024. Ready properties are rebounding, averaging 2,400 deals a month, a sign that immediate yield and lower risk are gaining ground. Preference for primary properties is also strong, with transaction volumes 33 per cent higher than secondary sales. "Buyers are drawn to new designs, smart features, and long-term appreciation prospects," Sleiman says. As Hamdan Al Kaitoob puts it, "The post-pandemic investor is more informed, more selective, and more lifestyle-driven." And as Cherif Sleiman adds, "We're seeing the rise of a holistic investor, someone who balances financial logic with livability." Final take: Investing where vision meets value As 2025 unfolds, one thing is clear: UAE real estate is no longer about playing it safe or chasing trends. It's about anticipating lifestyle shifts, embracing tech-forward development, and aligning with a more holistic sense of value. The line between home and investment continues to blur, demanding that buyers consider emotional comfort alongside economic gain. Investors are becoming strategists, weighing mid-market affordability against premium branded experiences, choosing between ready convenience and off-plan potential, and eyeing new destinations like Ras Al Khaimah and Sharjah with fresh optimism. They're thinking beyond square footage; to connectivity, wellness, sustainability, and community. In this environment, the winners won't just be those who follow the data, but those who also understand the desires behind the demand. Whether you're a seasoned investor or a first-time buyer, the most important question in 2025 isn't just 'where?' or 'what?' it's 'why now, and for whom?' The answers, as this playbook reveals, lie at the intersection of insight, innovation, and impact. And in the UAE, the future of real estate isn't just being built—it's being reimagined. The 2025 property playbook is clear: the future of UAE real estate belongs to those who adapt quickly, think long-term, and invest smartly. What smart investors are doing now 2025 has introduced a far more nuanced real estate landscape. Gone are the days of single-strategy investment. Today's buyer wants:
Zawya
21 hours ago
- Zawya
Regenerative farming takes root in South Africa as demand for sustainable exports grows
As global buyers tighten sustainability standards, South African farmers are starting to adopt regenerative farming practices at a growing pace — particularly those focused on export crops. Source: Freepik Regenerative farming works with natural processes to restore soil health, reduce chemical use, and increase resilience to climate shocks. The World Economic Forum reports that transitioning just 40% of global cropland to regenerative agriculture could cut 600 million tons of emissions — equivalent to the footprint of a small country. Arno Abeln, managing director at Agrimark, says the shift is gaining momentum in South Africa, though the pace varies by sector. "We're seeing major investment in these practices among wine, citrus and table grape producers, also in apple and pear production, because export markets are demanding it. It's less advanced in the grain sector, but we're starting to see more interest as producers explore ways to improve soil health over the long term," says Abeln. Export-facing crops lead the shift Abeln believes South Africa's lack of government farming subsidies means local producers have had to adapt faster and smarter. "South African farmers don't benefit from the government subsidies common in other countries. They've had to find innovative and efficient ways to farm to stay viable. Regenerative practices together with precision agriculture are playing a bigger role, especially as export markets adopt stricter sustainability standards." In the Swartland region, principles like crop rotation and integrated grazing have been used for years — helping maintain soil health naturally. "A farmer might plant 500 hectares of wheat one year, followed by canola the next, each crop nourishing the soil differently. After harvesting, sheep graze the fields, naturally fertilising the land. It's a holistic system — and a scientific one." Younger farmers driving mindset shift A generational shift is also driving the uptake of regenerative practices. "There's definitely a long-term view emerging – especially around soil health and resilience," says Abeln. "And with better soil health, you often see the potential for better yields and cost efficiencies too." International studies suggest input costs could drop by 25-50% over time for farmers who move away from synthetic fertilisers and pesticides. Data, not guesswork, key to long-term soil health Abeln says modern farming requires science-backed decisions, not habit-based practices. "Many farmers are still using the same fertiliser mix they relied on ten years ago. We help them move to smarter, insight-driven decisions that can improve yield and profitability." Agrimark, a national agricultural retailer, works with suppliers, plant diagnostics specialists and input providers to support this shift. "It's about replacing guesswork with data. When a farmer faces an issue, we don't just sell a product; we work with him on-site to understand the problem and coordinate the right expertise." "In some regions, like parts of the Northern Cape, soil degradation is a real risk. If we want to keep farming and feeding people, we have to prioritise soil health." All rights reserved. © 2022. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
a day ago
- Zawya
Egypt: MOPCO's profits shrink 42.9% YoY in H1 2025
Arab Finance: Misr Fertilizers Production Company (MOPCO) registered a plunge of 42.99% in net profit after tax to EGP 5.817 billion during the first half (H1) of 2025, the financial results indicated. The reported earnings were compared with EGP 10.204 billion in H1 2024. Basic and diluted earnings per share (EPS) declined to EGP 2.03 at the end of June 2025 from EGP 3.56 a year earlier. Net sales amounted to EGP 13.337 billion in H1 2025, up from EGP 9.932 billion in H1 of 2024. © 2025 All Rights Reserved Arab Finance For Information Technology Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
