The inaugural Speciality Food Festival, the region’s first dedicated gourmet and fine food show, is set for long-term success following three days of active business opportunities reported by exhibitors and visitors. 

The three-day show which ran at the beginning of this month at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre provided an exclusive platform for the promotion of some of world’s most premium ingredients and food product ranges. 

Organised by the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), The Speciality Food Festival was developed to meet the growing needs of international and regional suppliers looking for an opportunity to showcase fine foods and speciality ingredients to a targeted high-end food and hospitality market. 

Visitors included many of the region’s top chefs, gourmets and industry professionals looking to source ultra premium products from around the world, said a statement.

“We are delighted with the excellent feedback we have received from both exhibitors and visitors for this new show – not only was there strong interest in the products exhibited, but new supplier relationships were made and a healthy level of business was concluded.  Based on first year results, The Speciality Food Festival can expect continued growth and an established position in the industry calendar.  90 per cent of our exhibitors have already confirmed their participation for 2011,” said Trixee Loh, senior vice president, DWTC.

Exhibitors from some of the most gastronomically renowned countries attended the show to promote speciality products from their respective regions, including Argentina, Italy, Spain, Australia, New Zealand, France and French Polynesia. 

A number of the Middle East’s prestigious producers and suppliers also participated, with exhibitors from Saudi Arabia, Iran and North Africa reporting excellent trading during the show.

The Speciality Food Festival will return next year from October 25-27.  –TradeArabia News Service