Index 2009 to focus on creating business

This all-new Index places doing business at the core of the event, and is introducing a number of features to help the interior design industry maximize opportunities in a difficult business environment.

Despite the global economic downturn, there are still new projects coming online in the region every day which require interior design. Independent research company Proleads estimates that nearly $43bn worth of interior projects have been confirmed within the UAE for 2009, in addition to some $140bn worth of new hotel projects which should be completed across the Gulf as a whole within the next two years, which in turn will generate significant interior design business opportunities.

Now in its 19th year, Index, organized by dmg world media, has already established itself as a leading player in the global interior design show calendar. A brand new team, headed up by event director, Lu Buchanan, has taken feedback to see what the industry requires and, as a result, Index 2009 will be a more cutting edge, business-driven event than ever before, in order to maximize the opportunities that are out there in the market.

In a trade-show first, Index will introduce a Business Match-Making programme. By invitation only, this programme will match top interior designers, specifiers and buyers with relevant exhibitors. The VIPs will receive a number of benefits, including fast-track entry, access to a VIP lounge and a pre-planned tour of the exhibitors they have been matched with. All this is designed to ensure an effective use of time during the Index show, thus facilitating business. Index will also have a Steering Committee, comprising representatives from the industry and the media, who will be shaping the show and developing new features in the lead-up to the event.

Lu Buchanan, Index event director, said:

"Basically, if you think you know Index, you need to think again! This year's show has been shaped as a result of industry feedback, and we are aiming to provide an arena where contracts are signed and real business takes place, set against a background of the latest cutting edge design."

"In addition, we recognise that time is precious for the top executives in the industry, and so have developed our unique VIP Business Match-Making programme to ensure that Index is of real value to them. I believe we are set for the most exciting show to date, and look forward to announcing further details shortly," Buchanan added.