15th edition of Gitex Shopper inaugurated

DUBAI — The 15th edition of Gitex Shopper 2005, was inaugurated yesterday at the Airport Expo by Ahmad Bin Byat, Director General of the Dubai Technology and Media Free Zone, as visitors in search of bargains swarmed the venue on the opening day, reaffirming the event's status as the annual retail platform for technology in the Middle East.

By A Staff Reporter

Published: Sun 25 Sep 2005, 10:45 AM

Last updated: Thu 2 Apr 2015, 5:51 PM

Organisers see an upward swing in the number and volume of on-site deals this year at Gitex Shopper. Last year more than Dh56 million

($15.25 million) deals were struck, against Dh 42 million in 2003, registering an increase of 33 per cent. With a total of 108,000 consumers at the show, the per capita spend last year worked out to a significant Dh519 ($141).

Several local and regional distributors have already initiated extensive media campaign on what they are offering at the show. Thus the event is expected to result in significant gains both for the retailers and the consumers.

More than 4,000 products are being showcased in this consumer event that is expected to pull in over 120,000 visitors this year. A total of 140 exhibitors from 15 countries are taking part in the show, enticing buyers with promotions and cash prizes for their products. A steady drop in prices of consumer products, new innovations, replacement items and upgrade versions are expected to stimulate demand at Shopper this year. Visitors can look forward to a week of exciting offers on the most recent products that have been launched.

The weeklong event that runs till September 30 will offer an opportunity for visitors to select from scores of products. These include accessories and peripherals, audio equipment, consumer electronics, data storage media, digital imaging, entertainment software, gaming, hardware, home electronics, computers and peripherals, laptops, modems, monitors, multimedia, networking, online resources, printers, scanners, software, telecommunications products, video equipment, wireless technology, work stations, telephony, office automation and many more.

Another interesting feature this year will be the digital representation of "Dubai...The Future City 2030". The selected entries in this creative talent contest for digital artists are on display.