Gulfood 2021, the most competitive global sourcing platform and first in-person F&B event in the past 12 months has set the tone for a resurgence of worldwide F&B trade, according to exhibitors at the five-day show, which runs at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) until Thursday 25 February.<\/p>\n
The show has drawn some 2,500 companies from 85 country, from global power brands to innovative sector start-ups, for a unique opportunity to reconnect start 2021 with confidence and conviction following one of the most challenging years ever for the industry.<\/p>\n
Seara Alimentos LTDA, the world\u2019s largest beef and poultry producer, highlighted the quality of visitors at the show \u2013 a positive sign for the year ahead.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis year is the first opportunity since the pandemic to be face-to-face with clients. The floor has been great. We have had busy days meeting new and existing customers, and we are expecting this to continue,\u201d said Marcello Siegman, Export Director at Seara Alimentos LTDA.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe MENA region is very important, Dubai is very important for us, not just for connecting with the MENA region but has a hub for Asia, Africa, the CIS, and Russia. Gulfood is the most competitive event and the best place to start the year with confidence,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
It is a view echoed by Denmark\u2019s Osterberg Foods, which is showcasing its fruit-based shots, water, syrups and tea.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe have had some really good meetings so far. The visitors that have come have been quite interested in business, so that is really helpful. We have been at Gulfood for many years and this being our first exhibition in 2021 will set the agenda for the year ahead. We expect to continue to add good contacts and boost our business here in the region,\u201d said Mette Ring O\u2019Donnell, Director, Food Service, Osterberg.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe have had great feedback and we have entertained a lot of new opportunities. We have seen a lot of organised traffic, so we are very happy with this year\u2019s approach,\u201d said Elias Hanna Demyane, Director, Business Development, NTDE Group, a leading distributor in the Middle East.<\/p>\n