Jotun Paints showcases 'Megayacht Professional' at Dubai International Boat Show 2008

As recent statistics show that around 30 per cent of the world's superyacht owners are based in Dubai, the leading paint manufacturer's participation at the event, which was held at the Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC), is part of its commitment to address the growing demand for vessel protection products across the UAE.

Developed through leading edge technology in paint and coating production, the 'Megayacht Professional' range is comprised of high performance top coats, antifoulings, primers, undercoats, fillers and sealers, which have been formulated to give luxurious water vessels a silky gloss finish while keeping their underwater hulls clean. Targeting the growing number of private superyachts populating Dubai's most important marinas, the range also includes tributylin (TBT)-free antifoulings, which provide effective protection against algae and slime for vessels that are docked for long periods of time. Local yacht builders like 'Gulf Craft', 'Dubai Marine', 'Al Shaali', and 'Riviera' have showcased Jotun-painted vessels at the event, which is a true testament to the superb quality of Jotun's products.

"The maritime sector is growing at a tremendous rate and showing strong indications of further expansion as high net worth boating enthusiast turn towards local companies for the manufacturing, product support and services of superyachts," said Gemma Gonzaelez Ferrer, W. W. Yachting Concept Manager, Jotun Iberica, S.A. "The significant developments in maritime infrastructure and marine facilities being initiated by the Dubai Government will definitely increase the demand for yachts and therefore the need for top quality vessel protection paints. Our participation in this show is a reflection of our extensive capabilities in terms of delivering highly specialised paint solutions, while exemplifying our support in the advancement of the boating industry as a whole."

Now in its 16th year, the Dubai International Boat Show 2008 is one of the fastest growing leisure marine industry exhibitions in the world, which attracts high net worth individuals, local boat and yacht builders, and leading suppliers of marine equipment, supplies and services. Organised by Dubai World Trade Center (DWTC), the show featured presentations on the UAE's maritime industry as well as on other developments around the Middle East region. Achieving considerable growth compared to its previous editions, the show has been identified by Jotun as an effective venue to showcase its top quality paints for marine vessels and value added technical support services for its customers.

"We have repeatedly proven our ability to use leading edge technology in the development of highly advanced paints and antifoulings amidst the highly competitive arena of the global shipping industry. Our strong position in the market is also a significant element, which we are intending to leverage as the market continues its current uptrend. With boat and yacht ownership poised to see further growth in the coming years, we are continuously building our investments in research and development to provide a unique balance of performance and economy for our clients," concluded Youssef El Said, Marine & Megayacht Sales Executive, Jotun UAE.