Gulf Beauty 2003 concludes with major response from trade visitors in the region

The exhibition recorded a 10% increase in visitor numbers in its eighth year and the organisers Epoc Messe Frankfurt were compelled to extend the show timings for an extra hour in the evenings on the last two days in keeping with the demands of the trade exhibitors who came from different parts of the Middle East and were keen to network more effectively with the international exhibitors. Major representation from 30 countries from the region and internationally resulted in business enquiries and major transactions being discussed during the three-day event.

'In its eighth year, Gulf Beauty has surpassed our expectations in terms of the exhibitor and trade response. The range of products and equipment that were displayed has once again emphasised the potential of this market where personal grooming has become a billion-dollar industry attracting the best international names. This was the first time that the exhibition was held in June and exhibitors have responded very favourably to this new schedule. Most of them received serious trade enquiries both from the GCC countries as well as Iran and Egypt and one of them is even looking at establishing production facilities in the region in the long-term,' said Daniela Rose, Project Manager, Gulf Beauty.

The show witnessed major participation from the German cosmetic, toiletry and perfumery industry, which is the world's third largest exporter of cosmetic products after USA and Japan. There were 35 exhibitors from Germany and the country's exports of personal care products to G.C.C. countries in 2002 were US$148 million. UAE was the major export destination with exports worth US$64 million.

Carola Guenther, in charge of exports at Alcina Cosmetic/Dr.Kurt Wolff GmbH, a company, which develops, and manufacturers cosmetic care products based on the dermatological research of Dr. Kurt Wolff was exhibiting the company's products at Gulf Beauty for the second time. 'Epoc Messe Frankfurt's international reputation created an increased global presence at the current Gulf Beauty show. This is a major market for Alcina and our long-term strategic goal is to establish a direct presence in the Middle East by setting up production facilities in near future,' said Guenther.

Renowned Italian correctional make-up artist Pascal Frese demonstrated his art of perfecting facial features during Gulf Beauty 2003. The Pascal Firenze 100 Carati collection was showcased which contains gold powder that has been incorporated for its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidising properties. 'My range of make-up has been created to enhance the inherent characteristics of women and the climate of the region is ideal for the Carati range, which not only corrects flaws but also leaves the skin feeling fresh even in high humidity levels. We would definitely like to further explore the potential in this market with our products which are enriched with precious oils and vitamins A, E and F.'

The teen brand Caboodles attracted a great deal of attention during Gulf Beauty. High Moon Trading which markets and distributes these products in the region were pleased with response generated. 'This year along with our flagship teen brands -Caboodles & C*me, we showcased a new line of Bath & Spa range and exclusive Perfumes range. As expected we got a tremendous response especially from trade visitors who arrived from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain and Iran. Gulf Beauty 2003 provided us with a good platform to connect directly with the customers and we will definitely participate in the next show,' said Hisham Asfour, Managing Director, High Moon Trading LLC.

With the Middle East and specifically Dubai, showing tremendous potential for the spa business, Athlegen Private Limited from Australia were at Gulf Beauty with their extensive product range which is designed for the hotel and spa market. 'This is our first participation in this region and we have received positive enquiries from Saudi Arabia, Egypt and the UAE. Though we have not yet signed any agreements, we expect that we could generate AUS$100,000 in business as a result of our participation in Gulf Beauty 2003,' said Andrew Bradley, Export Manager, Athlegen.