Sweets Middle East offers international platform for product launches

Figures released by Euro monitor estimate that the UAE confectionery market is worth Dhs300m and is growing at 10% annually.

With expanding trade opportunities through dedicated exhibitions such as Sweets Middle East, retailers are more interested than ever in the way in which the market performs.

Co-organised by Dubai World Trade Centre and Koelnmesse, organisers of giant industry trade shows such as ISM Cologne, Sweets Middle East provides an opportunity for distributors to meet with suppliers and learn about the international developments and trends within the industry.

The event runs from 3-5 November in halls 7 and 8 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre and will host more than 160 exhibitors from over 30 countries

"The large number of foreign brands which will be present demonstrates the true international nature of the event."

said Joanne Cook, Industry Group Manager - Exhibitions & Events Management at Dubai World Trade Centre.

"We are pleased to confirm that several leading confectionery manufacturers have selected the exhibition as their platform to introduce products to regional and international markets."

For the 2008 exhibition, organisers will welcome increased international participation from Germany, France and several other countries.

Germany's top manufacturers believe that Sweets Middle East presents an unparalleled business platform to develop and expand distribution into new markets.

Participating from Germany is J.G Niederegger GmbH & Co. KG, established for over 200 years, the company is famous for its Niederegger marzipan.

At the 2008 show, Niederegger is looking to introduce its signature marzipan and nougats to international buyers and distributors.

Another exhibitor from Germany is Schwermer, a well known family owned confectionery that has been producing chocolates for over two hundred years.

The company will be bringing in gourmet chocolates, chocolate bars and organic chocolates.

Recent market reports indicate a growing demand for gourmet chocolates in both sophisticated and emerging markets.

Acknowledged for their skills in creating confectionery products, exhibitors from France will also be showcasing premium sweets and confectionery products at Sweets Middle East.

Chateau Blanc, an ambassador for French culinary traditions, is introducing its knowledge and experience of time-honoured delicacies to Middle Eastern customers.

The company will be introducing its range of macaroons alongside French delicacies such as exceptional breads and pastries.

Participating for the first time from Cyprus is, Chikrar, a Cypriot sweet manufacturer, and Pearl Confectionary, one of the largest manufacturing companies of confectionery from Pakistan, two producers looking forward to use Sweets Middle East to bring their innovative sugarfree products to the Middle East.

Serving regional tastes, Chikrar will be showcasing traditional Middle Eastern delicacies like Halva, Tahini and honey spread to buyers and retailers from Asia, Europe and the Far East where sellers are witnessing increased demand of sugar free products from domestic markets.

Several companies from other traditional sweet loving countries such as the USA, will be introducing their products to the Middle East for the first time.

Adam & Brooks will be showing for the first time All Natural Lollipops.

The company's products are sold to customers in every class of trade in the confectionery industry.

The exhibition is exclusively for Trade and Business Professionals and will be open from 10am - 6pm daily.