Despite the tough economic climate last year, suppliers at this year’s Gulfood remain bullish about business prospects for 2010.
Commenting on the show so far, Steelite International vice president - Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific Stuart Wilkinson noted: “The first day was much better than last year; we’ve been really impressed by the quality and volume of the visitors.
“I had a look around yesterday, and although we’ve all been hit by the credit crisis and there aren’t that many new product launches, we do all seem to be in the process of developing new products for the end of this year,” he continued.
| Advertisement |
“Overall, there is a very positive vibe.”
Baqer Mohebi Est head of sales and marketing for the HORECA division S Padmanabhan agreed that the industry was learning from the previous year’s troubles and moving forward proactively.
“Last year was certainly challenging, but we learnt a lot.
“This year, at Baqer Mohebi, we are having more focused sales teams which are much more effective. And we feel very positive about 2010 – things are looking bright.”
Duni sales director – export Henrik Stierna agreed that companies could learn valuable lessons from tought times.
“It’s the difficult times that help companies to grow stronger, and we have really viewed the past year as an opportunity more than a challenge,” he explained.
“Plus tabletop solutions is a strong market – it can help an outlets get a real lift, without the expense of a full refurbishment.”
According to Monin beverage innovation director Tihomir Gergov, the biggest ever edition of the show has gone well so far.
“Compared to previous years, I think demand is growing in terms of exhibitors. The show has got really big this year, and there are even stands in the main hallway,” he noted.
“There should be something here to cater for every need.”
Search our database of more than 2,700 industry companies
