THE value of the average sale at Kuwait Duty Free (KDF) has risen by 13.97 per cent over 2003 to reach $ 37.53, according to the managing director of its operators, Habchi & Chalhoub.

KDF adopted a strategy of ‘hot promotional points’ in 2002 and 2003, which paid off with excellent sales results. “These hot points promote best-sellers and new products in a high-visibility, big-volume display, allowing customers easy access to products,” said Anthony Chalhoub. He said duty-free goods need to be distinct from the domestic market. “Special packaging and exclusive ranges such as the Marlboro country collections and Cadbury’s travel retail range encourage spending and duty-free retailers are always looking for new products. Events such as Middle East Exclusive are good vertical channels to find them.”
Middle East Exclusive, the region’s only exhibition for the duty-free, luxury goods and travel retail industry, will be held at Dubai’s World Trade Centre from November 29 to December 1. It is being organised by Channels Exhibitions.
Channels Exhibitions MD Justin Boutros said: “The region is seeing tremendous growth in retail activity, tourist arrivals, luxury brands and duty-free expansions besides being home to a large population of high net-worth individuals. People want to see more products while manufacturers are searching for new markets. The show aims to meet the needs of both parties,” added Boutros.
The event will host more than 150 exhibitors with goods ranging from jewellery to luxury confectionery and tobacco products, including leading international brands and local merchandise. Buyers from over 49 countries in five continents have pre-registered for the show at its website www.middleeastexclusive.com.
The show last year attracted 1,730
trade visitors from 79 countries. It is being held in association with the Dubai Duty Free Golf World Cup and the MEDFA Duty Free Conference.