Britain builds major force at The Hotel Show

Earlier this year, the British Government's trade development organisation, Trade Partners UK (TPUK), announced that the exhibition has been rated among the top ten events in its sector worldwide, and said it would provide grants to British-registered companies wishing to appear at event over the next two years.

To date, 24 hotel industry suppliers have responded, boosting the number of British-based exhibitors to 32. This is an increase of 150% on last year, and it means that the UK will have the largest overseas presence in a total line-up of 150 exhibitors at The Hotel Show, taking place from May 20-22 at Airport Expo Dubai.

"We are thrilled at the response which underlines the fact that Britain is a major trader with Middle Eastern countries," said Joanne Evans, Director of Streamline Marketing, organisers of The Hotel Show. "The UK-based exhibitor line-up is diverse, and 75% of the companies are exploring trading opportunities in the region for the first time."

The range of British-made hospitality products and services is diverse and includes suppliers of hotel equipment, fixtures and interior décor, security systems, hospitality software and IT, landscape and architecture, hotel consultancy services, and uniforms.

Among the British contingent will be ACO Technologies, a world leader in the manufacture and supply of internal and external water drainage systems, and Steelite, the UK's premier manufacturer of ceramic tableware for the hospitality industry.

Earlier in the year, the Birmingham Chamber of Commerce successfully applied for the grant from the TPUK, and is coordinating the participation of British exhibitors. The chamber's project manager, Simona Novelli, said: "The Hotel Show is a wonderful platform for suppliers looking to capitalise on the major growth of the hotel industry in the Middle East. Through the grant programme, we aim to encourage ongoing trade and support for the event on a long-term basis."

In addition to the strong UK presence, exhibitors from across Europe, South Africa, Southeast Asia, China, Australia, USA and the Middle East have booked exhibition space at the three-day event.