Headline News
Optical Middle East poised to generate growth in optical and ophthalmic trade
Optical Middle East 2004, to be held February 26-29, 2004 at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre, is set to welcome exhibitors from the Europe and Middle East market in a growing response to the success of the previous edition held in February 2002.
DUBAI,
June 2002- The value of the optical and ophthalmic industry is estimated at US
$2 billion (AED 7.35 billion) within the Middle East region.
The Middle East has seen a major explosion of industry interest from optical
trade suppliers and consumers, locally and worldwide and Optical Middle East's
popularity continues to build on its successes since its inception in 1996, and
the 2002 edition generated more than US $1 million in sales. The event gives
exhibitors access to a lucrative market that spends significant amounts on
eyewear. Whether sunglasses or prescription lenses, the majority of residents in
the Middle East region view eyewear as a fashion accessory that must be changed
frequently to maintain fashion an attitude that dominates the population and
stimulates significant opportunities for suppliers.
A truly international exhibition, more than one-third of the contingent of
leading lens and eyewear suppliers at Optical 2002 were from Europe. The 2002
edition attracted more than 2100 trade visitors, including importers,
distributors, ophthalmologists, opticians and ancillary industry professionals.
More than 100 companies are expected to be represented in the 2004 event which
will showcase a wide array of standard and specialised optical products
including spectacle frames and sunglasses, optical and ophthalmic lenses and
accessories, tools and machinery, artificial eyes, optical and ophthalmic
equipment and instruments, surgical instruments, spectacle lenses, cleaning
cloths, diagnostic instruments and equipment.
We are anticipating strong representation from Europe in 2004, which we
expect will be complemented by increased participation from the Far East,
including Korea and Taiwan. In addition, Middle East representation is expected
to increase since the event is the only one of its kind in the region, said
Jackie Reed, International Project Manager for Optical Middle East.
Optical Middle East provides an ideal forum for traders and industry specialists
interested in expanding into the vibrant Middle East markets, to network and
make important connections. Established suppliers and newcomers to Optical 2002
exhibition pointed to the exceptional opportunities the event provided. Many
exhibitors, including Italian lens supplier LTL Spa were encouraged by the
response to their products at the show. The exhibition enabled me to make
important new inroads with trade professionals from Iran and, given the growth
potential, I will recommend the company open an office in Dubai within the next
year, said Mauro Maloberti, Export and Sales Manager, LTL Spa.
The manager of Dahmmi Ind. Co. Ltd., which made its debut at Optical Middle East
in 2002 said, I am confident that the contacts I made at the exhibition will
enable me to boost exports to the region from my current US $300,000 to US $1
million within the next year.
The exhibition is organised by the Dubai World Trade Centre which has more than
twenty years experience organising successful trade exhibitions. More
information about Optical Middle East 2004 can be obtained at www.opticalmiddleeast.com.
