Enthusiastic exhibitor response and solid deals see Index continuing to strengthen its global reputation

A unique showcase that brings together the trendsetters and icons of an industry that thrives on innovation, the event has been a vibrant, colourful celebration of the very best from the interiors industry.

Exhibitors have been particularly pleased with the high quality of the visitors to the show, and many have secured significant orders. Pakistani cotton fabric specialist Noble Textile Trading signed two contracts worth US$90,000 within the first two days of the show, whilst BSH Walls & Floors finalised a 7,500 square metre commercial carpet deal with Sharjah International Airport.

"Once again, Index, one of the world's most successful trade fairs, has been a great success for exhibitors, and we are particularly pleased to hear so many positive comments from visitors who have attended from throughout the region and beyond,"

said Bernard Walsh, Managing Director of organisers dmg world media Dubai Ltd. "There's no question that Dubai and the other Gulf countries combined form one of the most exciting markets anywhere in the world, and we are proud to bring a world class event, which provides a platform for the industry to do business in the region, to Dubai each year."

Index has been the gateway for thousands of overseas manufacturers to establish themselves in the Middle East, making their products available to distributors, specifiers and buyers. At the same time, the international appeal of the show has helped local manufacturers to achieve regional exposure, helping them to expand across the region.

Giorgio Volpatto of Resinflex, a company that deals in Italian wallcoverings, first came to Index in 1993 and has been a permanent feature ever since. "I've seen the visitor profile change over the years," he said. "In the early years, there were more trade professionals than consumers, then a few years ago we met more consumers, but now we're getting more interiors professionals again".

"The demand has also changed," he added. "Earlier, people were more price-led, and would base their conversations around the value they were getting, but for the last two years they've been coming and saying 'this is what we need - how can you meet it?'"

Competition has also become much more intense over the years, but exhibitors see this as a good thing. "It keeps everyone on their toes," said Cihan Anani of De Gournay. "Thanks to Index, we have received a number of large contracts from five-star hotel groups including Le Meridien, Hilton and the Sheraton - the show gets bigger every year and the response gets better; this year is the best ever" he added.

The secret behind the event's success is the fact that it provides the ideal environment in which to do business whilst at the same time it has expanded to give real focus on product areas including flooring and lighting.

"Feedback from the national pavilions taking part at Index 2005 has also been extremely positive," added Walsh. "Demand for space at Index 2006 is already strong, and that's clear proof that exhibitors have met their objectives this year."