Palme points to positives in Middle East market
Published: MEA
MIDDLE EAST: Palme Middle East is citing a number of trends in the regional market as opportunities that are encouraging exhibitors at its event. The trade show, taking place from May 21st to 23rd in Dubai, is pointing to increased budgets for corporate events and a resurgent hotel and leisure industry.
On the subject of regional launches in the corporate events market, Palme is highlighting the experience of players in the local market. ‘The Middle East is now very buoyant once again,’ noted Stephen Lakin, chief executive at Dubai-based Production Technology (Protec). ‘The figures show that as when the financial crisis hit our annual turnover went to AED27 million, but this year it’s predicted to be more than AED100 million,’ he explained.
‘One-off shows are now also often larger here than in the rest of the world, thanks to the budgets that exist,’ continued Mr Lakin. ‘Everyone needs to be careful to avoid mistakes of the past but the industry is looking forward to a bright future.’
Another market Palme is pointing to as an opportunity that is generating interest for exhibitors at the show is the region’s hotel and leisure industry. Show director, Richard Brook, said both exhibitors and attendees are anticipating the event to trigger a plethora of deals.
‘During the boom years of development in this region there was obviously a great demand for professional sound and light equipment within the hotel and leisure industry and we could really see that buoyancy at Palme Middle East,’ noted Mr Brook. ‘With the global financial downturn these developments often slowed down or were put on hold.
‘However, there can be no denying there is resurgence in the market and that is good news for the best in the world of sound and light who, at Palme Middle East, have the chance to showcase what they have to offer.’
Palme Middle East is in its 11th year and will once again be held at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.