GULFOOD, 25th anniversary of the world largest food business event
The world largest food trade show took again place last February 16th to 20th celebrating its 25th anniversary. It received more than 98,695 trade visitors from 182 countries, as well as a digital reach of more than 57 million links. More than 5,000 exhibitors represented 1 million square feet, 60% of them being International companies (40% from the UAE). 35% of the trade visitors were importers and wholesales, 15% agents, 33% food service & hospitality establishments, 12% retail buyers from supermarkets, 3% from government and public institutions. “Innovation, quality, ambience & vibrancy differentiates Gulfood from other food exhibitions around the world” said Rakesh Ja, general manager of Al Maya group, among the leading food distributors in the UAE. International cuisine was showcased at the “Tastes of the World” cooking event, with the participation of 50 renowned chefs from 30 nationalities, inclusive 4 Michelin star chefs.
“Gulfood Connexions” B2B agendas facilitated 6,700 individual trade meetings, generating an average of US$2 Million average deal value per participating company. “The Gulfood Connections team was awesome, the coordination was perfect, excellent meetings for me” said Flora Hu, head of business development at Tesco.
Among the other events featured are “Celebrating Excellence” innovation awards with 6000 attendees and 48 finalists, “Ibrik Championship” involving 30 of the region’s leading baristas, “CXO Club” forum attended by +60 hand picked industry leaders.
