GULFOOD 2009 SET FOR BIGGER RETURN

DUBAI, Jan 6 (Bernama) -- Gulfood, billed as one of the world's top
exhibitions for the food, beverages, food service and hospitality industry, is
set to welcome over 3,300 international companies keen to establish and build
upon the region's reputation as an important trading hub, according to its
organisers.

To run from Feb 23 to 26, Gulfood 2009 will be held for the first time at
two local venues -- the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre
and Airport Expo Dubai.

"Gulfood is an event of true international stature; the biggest brands and
some of the most recognisable names in the industry will be using it as a
platform to bring their products and services to one of the largest buying
communities in the world," said Helal Saeed Almarri, chief executive officer of
Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), organiser of the event.

According to him, Gulfood had become the primary event for Arab companies
and government organisations to demonstrate their increasing contribution to
the growing hospitality sector.

With over 90 percent of food items in the Gulf region imported, new
opportunities for producers and distributors were extensive, said DWTC.

Covering 80,000 square metres, the 14th edition of Gulfood will feature
about 80 government-sponsored country pavilions specialising in the food and
hospitality sector as well as representation from government trade bodies and
export associations.

Organised alongside Gulfood are Ingredients Middle East Exhibition,
Restaurant & Cafe Middle East, Emirates International Salon Culinaire, Dubai
International Food and Safety Conference and a comprehensive programme for the
beverage industry.

Gulfood has been organised since 1987.
-- BERNAMA