Growing retail sector grabs spotlight at MOTEXHA Spring 2005

The show's Spring edition, being held between April 11 and 14, 2005 at Dubai International Exhibition Centre, has strengthened retail initiatives by announcing daily 'LaunchPad' trade fashion shows featuring international brands seeking Middle East partnerships. 70 per cent of LaunchPad's exhibitors are new to the Middle East with Italian fashion and leather brands leading- the line-up.

"Fashion business is big business in the Middle East region. MOTEXHA has always been quick to respond to changing trends in the fashion and trade industry by providing industry players new forums to support their business needs. According to recent reports, franchising accounts for 50 percent of Middle East's retail economy. Thus, forums such as LaunchPad play a vital support role," said Suman Manian, Show Manager, MOTEXHA.

"LaunchPad, an initiative launched at the last show in Autumn 2004, is a showcase of international fashion brands looking for franchise opportunities. It was a huge success as our exhibitors reported successful deals and genuine enquiries from agents and entrepreneurs," continued Manian.

Echoing this sentiment is Ken Lee, Business Devlopment Director of Sauvage Marketing who received many positive enquiries and business proposals from regional visitors after participating at LaunchPad. "The fashion show was an ideal platform to introduce Coemi and Welle, two well-known European brands of inner-wear for women, and allowed buyers to view our garments and make better buying decisions," he said.

Top Italian leather and fashion brands debut to seek Middle East partners
LaunchPad will feature top Italian fashion brands including ZIPPO fashion accessories and leather goods from the manufacturers of the iconic ZIPPO lighter, Giorgio Fabiani, manufacturers of glamourous footwear, Sirena luxury leather bags and Grand Italia, designers of high-end evening wear. Other exhibitors taking to the catwalk include Calonge, Com8 and Guards Fashion.

MOTEXHA Spring 2005 will feature an Indonesian and Romanian pavilion for the first time, while Portugal are coming back to the show through APICCAPS, the Portuguese Footwear, Components and Leather Goods Manufacturer's Association. Overall, an expected 250 exhibitors from 20 countries will participate at the show with strong emphasis on the show's specialist areas - PURE Branded Wear, KidZone, EuroTrendz, Fashion Boulevard and Trends Forum.