With the Middle East sweet and savoury snacks market enjoying more than 20% year-on-year growth for the past three years, and predicted to continue at the same rate until 2015 according to Euromonitor International, the Middle East represents a key element in the future for global industry growth. This strong market potential is mirrored in demand for space at Sweets & Snacks Middle East, the region’s largest and most influential trade show for the snack and confectionery industry, which this year has reported a more than 30% increase in exhibitor space.
The show, which runs from 19 to 21 November 2012 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), is part of a cluster of niche food industry shows that includes SEAFEX and The Speciality Food Festival. A truly international platform for product selection, more than 120 specialised exhibitors from 28 countries will be showcasing both sweet and savoury snacks and confectionery.
Trixee Loh, Senior Vice President of DWTC and organiser of Sweets & Snacks Middle East commented: “With the strong growth of the snack industry throughout the region, it has never been more important for businesses to attend this key trade exhibition. Not only does the show provide a trading platform to conduct immediate business deals, it also showcases the latest innovations and product launches in the sector, and helps to establish long-term networking relationships between exhibitors and trade professionals from throughout the MENA region.”
Growth in the snack foods market is being driven, both in the region and globally, by changes in consumer lifestyles. With less and less time for activities such as shopping and cooking, snack foods are claiming an increasing share of the food market, offering foods that act as both complement and substitute for time-consuming meals. Snack food producers are, however, following global food trends towards healthier eating, offering ranges such as low-calorie, fat-free, vitamin fortified, fibre-rich and organic foods.
The number of exhibitors showcasing organic, gluten-free and fruit and nut based snacks demonstrates the growing demand for healthy snack foods. Farmer Foods, a leading supplier of nutritious healthy foods made from freshly farmed ingredients and produced totally free of trans fatty acids, cholesterol, artificial colours or preservatives is one such exhibitor. Showcasing its range of cereal and fruit and nut bars this British company is expecting brisk business during the show.
The regional market for chocolate is experiencing robust growth, and is expected to be worth USD5.8 billion by 2016, according to forecasts by AC Neilsen. The participation of over 31 exhibitors of cocoa or cocoa products, including Qura Chocolate Factory, the region’s first manufacturer of Belgian chocolate, and the Malaysian Cocoa Board, reflects this important trend.
Leading chocolate ingredient, accessories and equipment supplier, BMB recognise the importance of Sweets & Snacks Middle East for their business. Managing Director, Bilal Ballout said: “This is one of the few trade shows in the region that allows us to reach such a relevant and targeted audience. At this year’s show, our award-winning chef will be conducting regular demonstrations with chocolate to showcase our product and inspire visitors. We are also launching our new range of chocolate tempering machines for everyone interested in manufacturing Chocolate Pralines."
In addition to the valuable networking and business development opportunities presented at the show, the Food Logistics Forum will gather 150 global and regional industry leaders together to address the future of food logistics in the region to manage the rapidly changing supply and demand challenges. It is supported by the Government of Dubai and Dubai Municipality and strategic partners include the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, as well as Euromonitor as a Knowledge Partner. Dubai World Central is joining the event as a Lead Sponsor together with Silver Sponsor support from DP World, Globe Express Services and Mirnah Technology Systems. Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points and accreditation are applied to registered attendees.
Combined with the co-located events SEAFEX and The Speciality Food Festival, all three dedicated food industry events will run alongside each other providing visitors and exhibitors alike with the perfect trading, networking and cross-selling environment.
The exhibition is for Trade and Business Professionals only and will be open from 10am - 6pm daily. General public and persons under the age of 18 will not be permitted entry. Free visitor registration is available now online at www.sweetsmiddleeast.com. Registration will also be available at the show upon proof of trade status.
