As the Middle East and African region develops a fast-growing appetite for confectionary products, shown by a CAGR of 4.1%, the snack product market is expected to reach $43.8bn by 2026. ISM Middle East says its aims to bring together the most innovative and flavourful confectionery and snacks from across the world.
Organisers Koelnmesse said its longstanding partnership with the Dubai World Trade Centre, organiser of the largest food fairs in the MENA region, established in 2007, is the perfect cornerstone for one of the region’s leading sweets and snacks events.
Denis Steker, Senior Vice President International at Koelnmesse GmbH, said: "We are pursuing great ambitions with the integration of ISM Middle East into the ISM network. We are strengthening both the ISM family as the preferred network for the world's leading sweets and snacks industry and Dubai as an important event and trade fair location for the food and beverage export business to the MENA region and Africa.”
From mouth-watering chocolate, confectionery and desserts, to tasty snack foods, ice cream and date products, visitors will discover the largest variety of sweets and snacks from over 300 exhibitors including global brands. More than 40 countries will be represented on the show floor, with participation from Germany, Italy, Switzerland, the UK, Korea, the Netherlands, Malaysia, Thailand, Morocco, Egypt, Turkey among others.
Network
Providing the perfect platform to network, seal deals and learn about the tastiest trends shaping the industry, the event will bring key industry players together under one roof – from retailers, suppliers, distributors and wholesalers through to buyers, chocolatiers and pastry chefs.
Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President, Events Management, Dubai World Trade Centre said: “Under the new name of ISM Middle East, we’re excited to be joining forces with our global partners Koelnmesse and the ISM network to organise this must-attend event in the region once again. From showcasing the tastiest sweets and snack products to celebrating the most innovative additions to the market, our aim is to bring professionals from across the industry to forge new connections and help take their product ranges to the next level.”
With the Arab world responsible for over 70% of global date exports, and the UAE among the largest regional exporters, this year’s Global Date Market 2022 will bring together suppliers of dates and date palm products from across the region, ready to connect with international buyers. As dates continue to rise in popularity with customers and manufacturers – due to their versatility, plant-based and natural sweetening properties – ISM Middle East is also the ideal place for date dealers to connect with global industry stakeholders.
“ISM Middle East is recognised as the biggest event in the region for the sweets and confectionary industry. We anticipate high value networking possibilities with industry experts and visitors. We believe that events of this stature are predominant drivers of successful business relationships,” said Shibu Thomas, CEO and Chief Brand Architect at Harison Premium Chocolate.