DESPITE the spectre of a double-dip recession in Europe and the US, as well as unrest in North Africa and Bahrain, the region’s hospitality infrastructure and associated supplies industry are still witnessing steady growth and many industry experts will be turning their attention to the latest trends to stay ahead of the curve and the competition.
The Hotel Show, the region’s premier tradeshow for the industry, which takes place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from May 17 to 19, has always been a showcase for innovative trends and this year will focus on sustainability and technology.
“Despite macro-economic indicators, there is little doubt that the regional hospitality industry is now experiencing solid if unspectacular growth. With more than $6 billion worth of hotel projects, mainly in the UAE, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, still due for completion by 2013, the industry is looking forward with renewed confidence,” said Frederique Maurell, exhibition director, The Hotel Show.
“We are, quite naturally perhaps, already seeing greater emphasis on sustainability and technology, not only to save energy but also to enhance efficiency and save money. As such hotel owners and managers will no doubt be on the look out for products and services which match this trend. ”
This year’s event has a distinctive international feel with 400 exhibitors representing 25 countries showcasing more than 500 products.
“We have 25 exhibiting countries registered this year representing more than 45 per cent of the net floor space. The largest pavilion is Germany with more than 600 sq m accommodating 29 exhibitors. The Turkish participation is a close second with 540-plus sq m. Then France, Belgium, Spain, Italy and the UK are also prominent, covering a combined 1,300 sq m,” said Maurell.
And it’s not just about international participation. Many of the region’s major industry players will also be exhibiting, including Al Aqili, Al Reyami, Sealy and Dubai Furniture.
The hotel show attracted more than 10,250 participants last year and with the upturn in visitor numbers, especially in the UAE, organisers are hoping for a considerable rise in trade visitors this year.
“In previous years, more than 60 per cent of our visitors have placed orders whilst onsite or at a later date but as a direct result of attending The Hotel Show. We believe that substantial investments will be made in sustainable products and technology this year,” said Maurell.
Once again to make it even easier for exhibitors and visitors alike, the show is divided into four main product categories: operating equipment and supplies; interiors and design; resort experience and security and technology.
“However we also have a number of new and exciting initiatives that we have introduced this year, following feedback from visitor and exhibitor surveys during last year’s show,” added Maurell.
The Hotel Innovation Trends and Technology (HITT) Conference is a new event running alongside the exhibition which will focus primarily on innovation and trends in technology.