Bord Bia will target significant business opportunities for 16 leading Irish companies attending this year`s Gulfood, the world`s largest food and hospitality trade show which begins this Sunday, 8th February in Dubai. This year the event marks its 20th anniversary and will host almost 5,000 exhibitors over five days including buyers, government ministers, industry experts and policy makers.
Speaking in advance of the event Aidan Cotter, Chief Executive of Bord Bia said:“ The value of markets for Irish food and drink exports outside of the European Union cannot be overstated, accounting as they did for almost one third of our food and drink exports last year. The Middle East Region is particularly important and 2014 was another successful year with €237 million in annualised sales. Our plan is to grow this figure substantially to exceed €500 million in exports to the region by 2020”.
Gulf Region
Irish food and drink exports to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) increased by 28% in value terms in 2014 to exceed €177 million. The GCC region consisting of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and Oman holds great potential for growth according to Michael Hussey, Regional Manager for Bord Bia: “Food security is a major concern for the Gulf states and Ireland as a country that exports 90% of its food and drink production is well placed to sustainably supply a region that imports 90% of its food requirements. Retail outlets are our primary focus for exports at present but foodservice is showing promise particularly in high-end establishments such as five star hotels and restaurants where people are willing to pay more if suppliers have a positive story to tell, and we do with our Origin Green programme”.
Participating Companies
Four of the Irish exhibitors are new to Gulfood. Good4U (superfood), National Organic (innovative organic products) and Paganini (Italian style ice-cream) and Chia Bia (health foods based on the chis seed) all bring products to the market which will resonate with buyers in the Middle East.
Remaining companies participating include: