EMP signs Concept Media for its first directory

The publishing agreement was signed by Mr. Abdulla Al Daboos, Chairman of EMP and Director General, Emirates Post, Mr. Ahmed Tahlak, CEO, Emirates Marketing & Promotions, and Mr. Aldrin Fernandes, CEO, Concept Group.

Mr. Al Daboos described the initiative as meeting the demands of the UAE marketplace. "This is a vibrant and progressive environment; with businesses growing and changing their address and other contact details, the corporate post box is one constant and reliable connection to companies. Our goal is to leverage our strengths, which includes a strong database and a network of over 350,000 post office boxes and growing, to meet the requirement of this rapidly-growing market," he said.

The new directory, which will offer a comprehensive listing of all businesses operating in the country, will be available to all businesses operating within the UAE and will be distributed through post offices and post office boxes, said Ahmed Tahlak, CEO, Emirates Marketing & Promotions.

"EMP's partnership with Concept Media ensures the success of this initiative. Concept Media's expertise in publishing directories, such as the health directory for the Department of Health and Medical Services, led us to this partnership. We have worked together to define the structure and the content of the directory,"

Tahlak added.

Under the agreement, Concept Media's role will include the design, sales, marketing, production and distribution of the directory.

"This agreement pools the best of our resources to ensure the end product is a vital business and information resource," said Aldrin Fernandes, CEO, Concept Group.

"In addition to the usual alphabetical and classified sections, the directory will also feature a 'reverse' section, which will enable users to search for companies through their post boxes numbers and phone numbers. Both features enhance the value of the directory and will enhance to its usage. The first edition of the directory will be released by early 2007."

Users of Emirates Business Pages will also be able to update their business contacts through the directory website and a CD-ROM, both of which will be produced by Concept Media in 2007. Moreover, corporate houses will be able to update their contact details on the website throughout the year by simply informing the publishers.