Exclusive show bows out on a high note

More than 600 elite brands - global and regional - took part in the three-day show at Dubai World Trade Centre and close on 2,000 visitors experienced an eye-catching display of premium products ranging from jewellery to gourmet foods.

Exhibitors reported brisk trade, especially with the region's duty-free outlets and high-end retail stores.

New York-based Kenneth Cole watches - one the five best-selling brands at duty-free shops worldwide - now ranks the Middle East as one of its star markets.

"We've been in Dubai Duty Free 18 months and have just had our best ever sales period," said company president Brian Venables. "Middle East Exclusive is a prime event for us and this year's show has been really great in terms of the contacts we have made and the potential new business generated."

One of India's top manufacturing jewellers, Gitanjali, also told of excellent response. The company has been in the diamond business for 60 years and already supplies duty-free outlets and jewellery stores in the UAE.

"This is our first time on the show and it has proved very worthwhile," said Middle East business development manager Chirayu Yardi. "Our products are already prominent in the retail sector and now we have been able to present ourselves as the manufacturer behind them."

Long-time supporter Pashma, also from India, used the show to launch its new Spa collection. Director Shilu Kumar commented: "It's been a very good week. We have been showing our scarves including the new lace collection and the response to our Spa collection has been overwhelming."

From Germany, Pro Aqua introduced a range of high-tech vacuum cleaners and 'air washers' that filter household dust through treated water, thus reducing the potential for allergies.

"Because the Middle East atmosphere is often dust-laden, we see great market potential here," said UAE manager Bokhodir Dadabaev. "This equipment is becoming increasingly popular in Europe and we are confident that Middle East customers will find it equally effective - especially because of the prevalence of allergies in the region."

Alex Chaves, director of jewellery company Equss from Australia signed three new retail deals during the show, with TunisAir, Hamila Duty Free and Abu Dhabi Duty Free. "It really is important to be seen by the region's key retailers and we will continue to be involved in the show," he said.

Justin Boutros, managing director of show organisers Channels Exhibitions, commented: "I am very impressed with the feedback from the visitors and exhibitors and we have laid the foundations for the exhibition to grow in the years to come. "

"This show breaks the mould of every other event in the duty free calendar. It's a relaxing environment where suppliers can have quality time with the buying teams and show their products in the right environment."

Middle East Exclusive 2007 will take place from 4 - 6 December 2007 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.