This year's event, already a sell-out according to the organizers, is set to build on the outstanding success of PALME 2004, which attracted 30% more exhibitors than the 2003 event, 134 companies from 25 countries, from as far away as the US, Australia, Korea and Belgium, participating - this exceptional growth is the result of the high quality of the event, which has proved a great success for exhibitors. A highly focused B2B event, PALME is dedicated to putting key regional decision makers in contact with the world's leading manufactures and suppliers. Clear evidence of this continuing commitment is the launch of three brand new vertical arenas at PALME 2005.
"Install, Event 360 and Musac - the three new sectors of PALME are the result of extensive industry research," says Darren Brechin, project director, PALME. "It soon became apparent from our in-depth discussions with exhibitors, visitors and industry associations that, given the highly buoyant nature of the regional market, there was a real requirement for additional dedicated events that would complement the concept of PALME."
The three new sectors will further enhance the focus of the event, providing an unrivalled platform for companies looking to maximise their share of the business opportunities throughout the MENA region. The highly lucrative Middle East sound and lighting sector alone is estimated to be worth $2 billion a year within five years, and major industry players are, therefore choosing PALME as the launch platform for new products and innovations - over 100 regional launches are expected to take place at PALME 2005.
'Install', a dedicated business arena for the AV installation sector, will highlight the latest technological trends and developments for residential and commercial property. Event 360 is aimed at production companies, rather than being purely about products, while Musac will be dedicated to musical instruments and accessories.
Organised by IIR Middle East, PALME 2005 takes place between April 24 and 26 at Dubai's state-of-the-art International Exhibition Centre.
(Lee Baldock)
