Foodex Saudi 2014 to capitalise on 2013's success

Foodex Saudi 2014 is set to take place with an increase in exhibitors, following the inaugural success of the show last year.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia accounts for 64% of the GCC’s total food consumption, is currently worth over USD $50 billion and expected to grow by 9% percent by 2017.

Reed Sunaidi head of exhibitions Simon Blazeby said: "Foodex Saudi enjoyed great success last year, both in terms of business written for our exhibitors and also because more than 10,200 visitors visited the show.

"Over 300 brands were showcased last year, many of whom have become show ambassadors for us this year thanks to the success they enjoyed.

"There is no doubt that the KSA market holds exceptional potential for F&B companies around the world, and exhibitors benefit immediately from Reed Sunaidi’s reach and expertise in doing business in this burgeoning market."

Having secured more than US $30 million in business deals for its 300 pioneering brands in the show’s inaugural year, it will once again run its Hosted Buyer Programme (HBP) to organise introductions and business contacts between customers and exhibitors. More than 200 buyers are expected to participate this year.

Also taking place alongside Foodex Saudi is the Saudi Food Forum, a conference that will focus on market trends in food distribution and hospitality, as well as the  issues of wastage, food security and food safety. 

There is also a new feature at the show this year: a cooking challenge. Organised to recognise culinary talent and skill, the Saudi Chef Competition will pit celebrity chefs against locally-based chefs.

Organised by Reed Sunaidi, Foodex Saudi 2014 will run from November 17-20, 2014 at the Jeddah Centre for Forums and Events with over 10,000 square metres exhibition space. The exhibition is targeted at business and trade visitors from within the industry, but it will also house a dedicated consumer area to enable clients to offer product activations and demonstrations to end-users.