Leatherworld organisers confident despite slump in Middle Eastern imports
03/05/2017
However, despite the dip, organisers of the Leatherworld Middle East trade fair, which took place in Dubai this weekend (April 30 to May 2), say the market is advancing.
“Manufacturers and suppliers are coming from almost every corner of the globe - from Australia, Germany and Italy, to Thailand, Iran, India, and of course, the UAE,” said Ahmed Pauwels, CEO of Messe Frankfurt Middle East. “The international stature is also underlined by national pavilions from France, South Africa, Indonesia, and for the first time, Egypt.”
Anita Ahiadormey, business development manager at automotive-focused supplier Afriwest General Trading, said: “The regional market is developing and there’s more awareness of leather and its varied uses. There will be more avenues for revenue outside of the interior industries, which has been the main focus so far.”
As part of the Trend Forum, Italian designer Antonio Vietri launched a gold-embossed, diamond-encrusted women’s shoe with a price tag of EUR 30,000, which includes delivery by helicopter. “Buyers can customise them with pearls, Swarovski crystals or diamonds,” said Mr Vietri. “Gulf customers and retailers love luxury and this is something that they’ve never seen before.”
Image: Buyers at Leatherworld Middle East in Dubai
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