SDI offers Eastern promise to Scottish food & drink industry
Scottish Development International (SDI) is providing a huge boost to the Scottish food and drink industry this week, by leading a delegation of Scottish companies to Gulfood, one of the world’s biggest food and drink trade shows held from 21-24 February in Dubai.
With an anticipated 45,000 visitors, 3300 participating companies, and buyers from over 150 countries, Gulfood is a key opportunity for Scottish companies to showcase their wares to an international audience.
The visit is being supported by industry leadership group Scotland Food & Drink, and companies including Highland Spring, Gourmet’s Choice, AG Barr, Deans, Mackies and Macphie of Glenbervie will form part of the overall Scotland pavilion at Gulfood, under the banner of Scotland: Land of Food and Drink.
Bearing in mind the current economic climate, SDI has offered Scotland Food & Drink member companies a significant discount on floorspace and stands at the exhibition plus a travel and accommodation grant.
Commenting on the initiative, David Smith, interim chief executive at SDI, said: “International trade fairs such as Gulfood are a key first step for many companies in realising their global ambition, and the Middle East offers huge potential for Scottish companies looking to export.
“We recognise that in the current economic climate, many companies will be worried about the expense of exhibiting at and travelling to shows like this, but it’s more important than ever to take a long-term strategic view.
“Scotland is home to some of the most highly-acclaimed food and drink brands in the world, so at times like this, we must ensure that Scottish food and drink companies have the opportunity to present new products to international buyers.
“As such, we are encouraging Scottish companies to get in contact with SDI to find out more about the support we can offer, to help them take that all-important first step in achieving global success.”
Paul McLaughlin, chief executive of Scotland Food and Drink, added: “Gulfood is fast-becoming one of the most important food and drink shows in the world, so it’s a fantastic opportunity to really fly the flag for Scottish produce, and for Scottish food and drink companies to explore new markets.
“We already know that there’s a lot of interest in Scottish produce, so we’re hopeful that the show will generate new international business for these companies and provide a welcome boost for the industry.”
Quality Meat Scotland will also attend the show, and will be hoping to take full advantage of the fact that the United Arab Emirates recently lifted its foot and mouth related restrictions on the import of lamb from the UK, reopening this prosperous market to Scottish producers.
Gulfood is the Middle East’s leading dedicated event for the foodservice and hospitality sectors, incorporating Ingredients Middle East 2010 and Restaurant & Café 2010.