Retailers set to capitalize on DSF 2008 as registration for participation soars

The Office is witnessing substantial response for its retail registration as the industry gears up for yet another successful DSF edition. Outlets that wish to participate in the festival can register before January 31, 2008.

To simplify procedures for participants, registration and other formalities can now be completed at the DSF registration desk located at the ground floor of the Department of Economic Department. Registration will be done between 4 and 8pm from Sunday to Thursday and between 10am and 2pm on Saturdays. Alternatively, application forms can now be downloaded from the dsf website at www.mydsf.ae.

Suhaila Gobash, DSF Sponsorship Manager said,

"Retail outlets across Dubai this year will be looking forward to better revenue prospects with an expected increase of 10 to 15 per cent on consumer spending when compared to the last DSF edition. The retail business during DSF will concentrate on volume sales, thereby making it possible for outlets to give massive discounts to shoppers."

This year, retailers can participate in three categories - DSF Sales, DSF Discounts, and DSF Offers, apart from the DSF Raffles segment that is open to outlets owned by a DSF key or support sponsor. To participate in DSF Sales, retailers will have to fill a letter of undertaking declaring that all merchandise in the store will be marked down by at least 25 per cent from prices prevailing before DSF 2008.

During DSF 2008 (Jan 24 - Feb 24), non-participating retail outlets will not get permission from the Department of Economic Development to conduct any promotion or sale and all participating retail outlets will have to honour their offers throughout DSF 2008.