Urban Barns Foods, a leading authority on sustainable development of fresh fruits and vegetables, has opened its first representative office in Dubai.

Dan Meikleham, chairman of the board for Urban Barns, said: "Dubai has developed into the centre of business and commerce not only for the Middle East but for the whole of Asia, including India, China, and all Africa, all of which are potential markets for Urban Barns.

"We believe that setting up our first representative office in Dubai will allow us to communicate Urban Barns' pipeline plans to our regional and international audience and indicates our serious commitment to be at the forefront of providing sustainable agricultural solutions."

Mark Hanson, director of Urban Barns, added: "I have been living and working in the Middle East and South East Asia for many years. One topic that is constantly in the news is that the world food system is in crisis. Food safety, security and traceability are huge issues today."

Urban Barns uses proprietary equipment to produce affordable fruits and vegetables in a secure and controlled indoor environment. By setting up subsidiary facilities and growing locally, Urban Barns can focus on supplying any community, irrespective of the regional climate, effectively reducing shipping times and related spoilage costs, a statement said. -TradeArabia News Service