Italian style has designs on GCC $12bn textiles market

Due to the significant fall in oil prices, reduced demand for gas and the plummeting Rouble, even Russia, until recently a bastion for luxury brands, has shown signs of designer fatigue and is following in the footsteps of many other markets by demanding designer brands that represent increasing value for money.

"There is a new world order developing in fashion brands around the world. Italy is facing up to this challenge by broadening its market appeal, instead of maintaining purely an elitist approach,",/blockquote>

said Jim Meltz, Show Manager for Motexha, the Middle East's largest garments, textiles, leather and fashion accessories trade show, which runs at Dubai International Exhibition Centre from 7-9 April 2009.

"Italy's total exports to the UAE already stand at over $5bn annually and their pavilion at Motexha is their largest yet, which underscores their desire to penetrate the regional market still further, with value for money brands. That doesn't necessarily just mean lower prices. Many designers have recognised that consumers want durable designs, so quality that lasts is as important as price," added Meltz.

Participating on the Italian pavilion are some of Italy's major brand names especially in swimwear and lingerie, such as Cotton Club and Confezioni Due Esse. Other renowned companies include DEVIL Shoes, Leathertex and Tiziana Sidoti. Meanwhile ten companies will also be participating from within the Proteus Group.

In response IIR Middle East the organiser of Motexha 2009, is experiencing a record level of pre-registration for the event from buyers of renowned local and regional retail brands.

"The Arabian Gulf's love affair with designer brands continues undiminished and although footfall in many of the region's shopping malls is still exceptionally strong, consumers are discerning. Flooding the market with cheaper mass produced products is not the answer, quality brands will always prevail regionally," stated Meltz.

"It is true that promotions such as the Dubai Shopping Festival and other more localised discounts increasingly play a role in the sales process, but it's all about the brands. That message is obviously getting through to the designers, who are now increasingly bringing their brands directly to market, rather than trying to court regional buyers during fashion shows in Europe for example," commented Meltz.

In addition to high-end brands from Italy, quality designs from Thailand, Indonesia and India, will all have a major presence this year. Indeed, as well as quality brands from US and Germany, a Russian company will be exhibiting luxury leather wallets," said Meltz.

In support of luxury, Motexha 2009 will also feature a Lingerie & Swimwear Zone which aims to introduce major brands to the Middle East market, from leading European exporters.