Retail therapy grips Dubai show

More than 3,000 visitors and delegates, all retail professionals, have visited the three-day expo and exhibitors report a strong level of interest in existing and new retail developments.

Sophia Khatib representing Marina Walk at the Jumeirah Beach Residence said: "We've generated an excellent number of leads from interested retailers; they see the quality and progress we've made at JBR and see it as a dynamic environment in which to set up and trade."

This was echoed by Ehab Kamel from the Pearl Qatar who said he was "surprised at the number of people who have shown interest in the development, especially from retail groups in Europe and the United States. The message is spreading, so that's good for us."

Over at the Al Othaim Mall stand from Saudi Arabia, Ahmed Yassim too remains optimistic. "Our setup and profile is different from here in Dubai, but we've been pleased with the amount of interest shown in our mall developments as an emerging market for retail groups and independents.

Commenting on the inaugural show Retail City International Exhibition Director Franck Dailles said: "We have been pleased with the response to the exhibition and especially the calibre of international trade visitors who are seeking new opportunities in retail. It also demonstrates that, even in summer, visitors are prepared to travel and attend Retail City because they are convinced of the quality of its offerings."

Awards Evening

The show was also the venue for the inaugural Retail City Awards which honours innovative retailers, with Mall of the Emirates in Dubai taking the top accolade as` Mall of the Year 2006.

The international panel of judges selected the mall for the award for its originality in concept, location, supporting services, customer relations, marketing and sales.

Other award winners on the night included Most Innovative Retailer of the Year which went to Better Life appliances; New Retailer of the Year which was presented to cosmetic retailer Biotherm; and the 2006 Corporate Responsibility Award which was awarded to furniture retailer The One.

The awards were hosted by television presenter Shahnaz Pakravan.

Speaking at the awards Retail City International Exhibition Director, Franck Dailles said:

"We want to recognize excellence in retail developments and this is a golden opportunity for innovative retailers to take centre stage, locally and internationally."