Boom times for perfume and cosmetics industry as Mid East duty free sales are set to break USD200 million

Perfumes sales are up 41% and cosmetics 70% in Dubai, 72% and 114% in Qatar while combined figures for Bahrain show an increase of 48% (number one category at Bahrain Duty Free), Kuwait 28%, Abu Dhabi 19.27% and Oman 13.9%.

Overall, regional duty-free sales are projected to post an annual average growth of 10.3%, compared to 4.6% globally, by 2010, according to a Generation Databank report.

The growing duty-free, travel retail and luxury goods sectors is attracting more leading international brands which see the Middle East as a key growth market.

"Traditionally the Middle East duty-frees have been strong in the confectionery, tobacco, perfume and cosmetics sectors which have driven rising sales," said Justin Boutros, Managing Director, Channels Exhibitions, organisers of Middle East Exclusive.

"The rapid expansion of almost all airports and duty-free outlets, new carriers and the tremendous growth of the retail sector in the region are all contributing to making the region a magnet for manufacturers of luxury goods."

International perfume and cosmetic houses are launching new products at Middle East Exclusive, the region's only exhibition for the duty-free, luxury goods and travel retail industry, which will be held at Dubai's World Trade Centre from November 29 to December 1.

Bogal Parfums Distribution Limited, a French company, is planning to launch two products under the Lobogal brand name - Lobogal Limited Edition and Lobogal Gold Limited Edition - at the show.

"The main aim of our participation in Middle East Exclusive is to position ourselves in regional duty free outlets," said Alla Zotova, General Manager of the company.

"Lobogal perfumes are unique high-value products that come in exclusively designed bottles which combine tradition, classic and modern shapes."

Zotova added that the Middle East is strategically important for the company as it gives them the opportunity to tap not only the local markets but the growing numbers of travellers passing through the region.

"Over a million pilgrims participate in the Haj every year and the UAE is a major economic centre for international shoppers from the Sub-continent, Africa, Russia, the CIS countries and the Middle East," said Zotova.

"A projected annual GDP growth of 4% over the next 20 years and strong demographics, whereby 60% of the GCC population is under 25 years, ensures high demand for beauty and fashion products for the foreseeable future."

Other companies bringing perfumes and personal care products to the show are Euroluxe, Jean Paul Rocher and PVM International Corporation.

Cosmetic companies participating in the show include 24/40 Cosmetics GmBH and Scorpio Distributors.

Middle East Exclusive is held under the patronage of Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Department of Civil Aviation, Dubai and Chairman of Emirates Group and supported by Dubai Duty Free and the Middle East Duty Free Association.

It is being held in association with the Dubai Duty Free Golf World Cup which runs from November 25 - 26 and the MEDFA Duty Free Conference from November 27 to 28.