Dubai Duty Free on target for Dhs1 billion

Commenting on the first half results, Mr. Colm McLoughlin, Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free said: "Sales for the first six months reached a record Dhs511.6 million (US$140 million) which puts the operation very much on target to reach the milestone of Dhs1 billion by the end of the year."

While most categories witnessed an increase over the past six months, sales of electronics rose to Dhs59 million (US$16 million), representing a 16% increase over the same period last year and placing this category in third position in terms of revenue.

"Electronic goods, which include mobile telephones, computers and audio visual equipment, continue to show a steady increase in sales due to a combination of factors such as availability of the latest products, competitive pricing and a general increase in demand for high-tech products," said Mr. McLoughlin.

Gold continues to retain the number one position with sales reaching over Dhs60 million (US$ 16.5 million) and representing 12% of total revenue for the first half. Other categories showing a significant increase include Perfumes, which increased by 10% over the same period last year and Confectionery, which increased by 14%.

While shopfloor sales continued their upward trend in 2002, the operation received a number of top awards including the Dubai Quality Award - Gold, which was presented in February this year. On the industry front, Dubai Duty Free received three awards including the Gulf & Africa Duty Free Award for "Most Distinctive Retailer of the Year", the Raven Fox Award for "Middle East Retailer of the Year" and the Business Traveller Middle East Award for "Best Duty Free Shopping".

As a result of these latest awards, Dubai Duty Free, which was named "Airport Retailer of the Year" last October, has retained all top industry awards for the second consecutive year.

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