France indulges in Sweets Middle East

Six French companies will participate to the 2008 edition, showcasing their irresistible delicacies to sweet lovers.

Sweets Middle East, will take place from November 3 - 5, at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The French Pavilion, representing 78 square meters will be located Hall 7 stand F-2.

The region's growing taste for sweets and snacks is developing into one of the most dynamic sectors of the global food market, according to the organizers of Sweets Middle East 2008.

Market statistics estimate that Middle East consumers spend billions of dollars on food every year, with the foodservice market in the GCC worth more than $31bn annually.

French products benefit from a good image as far as gastronomy is concerned and Sweets Middle East is the ideal platform for the French sweets, confectionery and snack industry to reach across the region.

Last year only one French confectioner was present at the tradeshow: Patrelle offering a range of fun and magical sweets for kids; whereas this year there will be six: Biscuiterie de l'Abbaye, Monbana, Confectionary Houses Pinson and Bonté, Chateau Blanc, Chocmod and Aux Anystiers du Roy all presenting their delectable offerings.

A wide range of biscuits, traditional and old fashioned French candies, innovative chocolate fondue sets, fine chocolate powders and premium chocolates to accompany coffee, macarons and chocolate truffles will bring visitors a taste of France's most mouthwatering sweet specialties.

"We are very proud to be able to present such an array of French specialties at this new edition of Sweets Middle East." commented Eric Santier, Regional Managing Director for Sopexa Middle East.

"The interest for confectionary in the region is booming and we have noticed a meaningful demand for French products such as macarons and chocolate truffles, typical French delicacies. I'm certain that Sweets Middle East is a great opportunity for France to highlight and differentiate its high quality offering in the confectioner's world, as well as to exchange ideas and meet key distributors."

The presence and the increase in size of the French Pavilion at Sweets Middle East show how willing the French "sweets" industry is to develop its sales and penetrate the lucrative Middle East markets.