Annual Digital Consumer Channel expands portfolio to include consumer electronics

Now in its fourth year, this successful, invitation-only event will be held at the Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort, Fujairah from 19th to 21st May, 2008.

DCC MEA is a focused event where retail executives from leading stores selling consumer electronics, digital device and ICT products in the MEA region meet leading international vendors. DCC MEA brings high-level buyers from emerging markets into productive contact with vendors. The addition of new product categories will see an expected 40% new vendors and retailers within the participants at this year's event.

'Today the traditional boundaries between consumer electronics like video, audio, photo, mobile and IT has disappeared and it is now a single market for consumer-related technology products,' commented Farouk Hemraj, CEO and co-founder of DISTREE Events.

'DCC would like to reflect this trend with the new product segments we are introducing this year. We are very clear in our direction - this is a platform that enables the power retailers to source new products and brands and to understand what is available out there in the market without having to travel too far. For the vendor, it is a great opportunity for them to evaluate the market potential, meet the right decision makers, set up important partnerships in the region and ensure the visibility of the brand.'

In addition to one-on-one meetings, the event also plays host to leading research companies and industry experts who share market insight that will help retail decision-makers shape the markets and make informed decisions. This year's primary research partner is GfK, Germany's largest market research company. DCC MEA's official research partner, GfK sees the Middle East consumer market emerging from its 'wild frontier' reputation to stake its claim as a modern marketplace.

According to GfK, retail chains have picked up on the hunger of a new breed of Middle East consumer while simultaneously appealing to an emerging tech-savvy segment of the population. Well-located shops are showing a strong understanding of the local needs. Middle East tourism is rising with mega structures and developments such as the tallest building in the world [Burj Dubai] making their mark on the landscape. This is matched by rapid region-wide developments in distribution, channels-to-market, new customer segments and new consumer opportunities.'

DCC MEA will also host its popular '60 Seconds to Convince' programme that decides the winners of the Best Technology Innovation and Best Technology Design awards (voted by the retailers) as well as Talk Shows, panel discussions and special boardroom presentations.
Details on the show are available at www.dcc-mea.com.