Jotun Paints to roll out 100 'Inspiration Centres' in the Middle East by 2008

Located in Al Barsha, near the Mall of the Emirates, the new centre is part of the leading paint manufacturer's ambitious plan to establish a total of 100 'Inspiration Centres' in the Middle East by 2008. Present at the opening were Odd Gleditsch d.y., Chairman, Jotun Paints; Morton Fon, President and CEO, Jotun Norway and Erik Aaberg, Managing Director, Jotun UAE in addition to key Jotun management and other guests.

In a move to improve customer satisfaction and boost market penetration in the UAE where the paint market is estimated to be worth Dhs630m, the newest Inspiration Centre has been designed to incorporate an Arabic-inspired theme in its layout, furniture and overall ambiance. Jotun was the first to bring in the concept of 'Do-It-Yourself' (DIY) in the Middle East, and has presented customers with another comprehensive store, from which they can draw inspiration for their specific paint requirements. In addition, the Inspiration Centre will also offer themes and environment models, comprehensive product information and colour consultancy, at no additional cost.

'The growing property development market has broadened the range of product alternatives, resulting in more sophisticated customer requirements. The plan to spread out 100 Inspiration Centres across the Middle East is another breakthrough offering from Jotun Paints, as we aim to cater to the growing demands of our discerning clients. In our continuous pursuit for excellence in our products, we have recognised the DIY concept as an ingenuous way to bring innovative, informative and inspiring ideas closer to clients to help them achieve the paint job they desire,'

said Erik Aaberg, Managing Director, Jotun UAE.

Research has revealed that homeowners who wish to refurbish their living spaces often encounter more difficulties in deciding which colour or texture of paint they prefer. The 'Inspiration Centres' are targeted at home owners looking for ideas to spark their imagination, by offering customers a personalized experience with highly qualified and friendly personnel. Customers can acquire expert advice in determining the most suitable colour, texture and pattern for their paint jobs, while receiving valuable information regarding the latest interior trends and effects.

'The launch of the third Inspiration Centre marks Mohammed Ali Eid Group's prolific 30-year relationship with Jotun, and it brings us pride to become a part of the first project based on the 'DIY' concept in the region. Today, we are very fortunate to be in the presence of Mr. Odd Gleditsch d.y., chairman of Jotun Paints, which is not only a testament to the significance of this event, but more importantly, an inspiration to continue legacy of quality products that has spanned for more than two decades,' said Mohammed Ali Eid Al Marri, Managing Director, Mohammed Ali Eid Group of Companies.

Jotun Paints established its presence in the Middle East in 1974, and has since expanded dramatically throughout the region by coming to the forefront in terms of developing products specifically suited to local conditions. Three decades of experience in the Middle East region has helped the company produce a variety of conventional and specialized coatings, catering to the various product segments and demands of different markets. Today, Jotun's diverse product range includes decorative, protective, marine, floor and concrete protection and intumescent coatings, bearing a solid testament to the company's reputation of being a single source solution for clients, consultants and contractors alike.