Middle East Food, Arabian Sweets exhibitions open in Abu Dhabi

To be organized by Channels Exhibition, Middle East Food and Arabian Sweets exhibitions are being simultaneously held till April 29 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).

The two exhibitions serve up a delectable spread of innovative products and services from the $32bn-plus food service and confectionery sector across the Middle East.

The Middle East Food is showcasing six dedicated concepts - Food and Beverage, Food Ingredients, Organic & Health Foods, Food Processing, Packaging & Machinery, and Catering Technology & Equipment aimed at ensuring that the right buyers reach and experience the various products, services and solutions.

The Arabian Sweets exhibition is showcasing the entire sweet foods industry - from cocoa, chocolates, biscuits, sugar confectionery, ice cream, baked goods to low calorie alternatives.

In his comments, Mr Justin Boutros, CEO of Channels Exhibitions, said:

"The first Middle East Food and Arabian Sweets Exhibitions are providing the perfect platform for the food service and confectionery sectors in the region to launch new products, meet existing and potential new suppliers and display products and services to a targeted and dedicated, qualified audience. We are confident that the shows will offer a good networking opportunity for companies in the sectors."

He added, "The food sector continues to grow with categories like 'Halal' now worth $500bn and the organic food market worth around $70.2bn. Food imports into Middle East continue to enjoy double digit growth with Saudi Arabia, UAE and other GCC states being major importers. Similarly, the global confectionery sector worth $120bn is growing at over 20% annually with the Middle East increasing the share significantly. Amidst such phenomenal growth, it is but natural that the exhibitions offer a good platform for future success."

According to official statistics, the food service market in the Middle East is estimated to be worth around $32bn. The Middle East confectionery market has growth by 15% over the last three years and the discerning taste profiles are spurring global and regional players to enter the premium market.

Among the distinct advantages being offered at the exhibitions are Food/ Sweets Connect - an extensive hosted buyer program; Food/ Sweets Match - a matchmaking opportunity for delivering greater value to both visitors and exhibitors.