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Hardware+Tools expo closes on positive note

DUBAI - The Hardware+Tools Middle East 2010 expo concluded on a positive note with a number of inquiries from local as well as gulf region-based companies.

The expo is a leading trade exhibition for tools, hardware, materials and machinery in the region and is a permanent fixture on the calendars for industry professionals in the Middle East.

Recognising the vital role played by trade exhibitions in stimulating the economy, this year’s trade fair enjoyed the patronage of Mohammed bin Abdul Aziz Al Shehi, Director-General of the UAE Ministry of Economy.

“Hardware+Tools Middle East 2010 is a big success, growing 20 per cent this year from last year. Exhibitors have noted an increase in the quality of visitors this year as the majority work specifically in this specialised sector,” Ahmed Pauwels, Chief Executive Officer, Epoc Messe Frankfurt GmbH, said. “We offer value for money for the trade fairs we provide, and so people continue to bring their business to us,” he added.

Philipe Matter, Regional Market Director of Leica Geosystems said: “This show is really good as it reaches into the MEA markets. In particular it gives us access to very good contacts to possible new distributors in Eastern Africa. People remember us each year from the exhibition. Events such as Hardware+Tools Middle East are our only access to the end user so it is a very important event for collecting client feedback.”

Hani Arwani of Arwani Trading said his company had received a lot of trade inquiries during the three-day show. When asked if there are signs of recovery in the stalled construction industry, he said: “We have seen a lot of improvement during the last six months in this sector. This year will be an OK year for us.”

A number of exhibitors displayed an extensive line of safety accessories for use in the construction industry.

One of the major exhibitors said that there are positive indications of an upturn in Dubai’s economy judging from heightened activity in their company’s projects database. “If results from the first and second quarter is what we expect, this is going to be a good year for us,” said Toufic Mansoor, Regional Business Development Manager of Bosch.

Interest in hardware and tools equipment has recently increased with the positive effects of a recovering construction industry.

Research has shown that a total value of around $900 billion worth is under construction or in bidding in 
the UAE.

Saudi Arabia and Qatar as well as the other GCC countries also have strategic infrastructure projects planned.

business@khaleejtimes.com