F&B brands tap UAE growth appetite

dubai - Middle East stands out as a key growth area for food providers in global packaged F&B

Over 140 leading food and beverage (F&B) brands will soon be converging in Dubai at Gulfood 2017.

Represented by major food industry heavyweights including Unilever, Nestle and Del Monte, the throng of F&B brands will go on display at the 22nd edition of the food and hospitality show, which runs at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from February 26 to March 2.

James George, analyst, Euromonitor International, said: "Manufacturers and distributors alike are looking at the Middle East and North Africa as one of the key growth regions. This is mainly fuelled by a handful of markets, particularly the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Egypt."

With recent Euromonitor data highlighting that the global packaged food market is expected to reach $2.2 trillion by 2020, George revealed that Asia-Pacific and the Middle East and Africa are prevailing as the key growth drivers of packaged food globally.

"Through new entrants or brand expansion, many brands will look to capitalise on the growth potential that these regions offer with significant investments across the region. The need for quality products and services will continue to rise as a growing population drives increased demand in the F&B sector," added George.

The new Power Brands segment at Gulfood will connect regional buyers with international producers and distributors of both high-end and household name F&B brands.

Trade networks
"For us, Gulfood and the new Power Brands segment in particular is an amazing opportunity to do business. As a truly global event, we are able to examine trends while increasing our trade networks to export on an even more significant scale," Heloise Buzet, head of marketing Mena, Del Monte (UAE), said.

Fonterra - the world's largest exporter of dairy products - is set to debut at Gulfood with its eyes firmly set on Mena region growth.

"We've supported the growth in dairy consumption across the Middle East and Africa for more than 40 years and we are focused on future investment and growth in this region," said Santiago Aon, general manager Fonterra Middle East.

Trixie LohMirmand, senior vice-president, exhibitions and events management, DWTC, said: "With more than 5,000 exhibitors, Gulfood is the perfect springboard for major distribution players who are looking to demonstrate their products and solutions to international retailers. The show will provide a unique experience for buyers sourcing a full spectrum of boutique and household name brands."

Power Brands is one of eight dedicated segments within Gulfood to ensure buyers can navigate the show more effectively. The other sectors are: beverages; dairy; fats and oils; health, wellness and free-from; pulses, grains and cereals; meat and poultry; and world food.

- business@khaleejtimes.com