He then engaged in animated discussion with a number of exhibitors as he and his entourage undertook their official walkabout.
It was clear that he was familiar with many of the brands on display, confirmed PALME exhibition director, Richard Brook. "When you have someone that takes a real interest, and is as clued up as he is, it really helps from an exhibitor's perspective and adds more value to the show. Brand wise he certainly knew a lot."
And those whose stands he stopped by certainly agreed. At Thomsun Trading, he was already familiar with the Adamson and Optocore brands that they represent in the Middle East, and he chatted at length to the company's Ashok Ross and Alok Ghurde, He also chatted knowledgeably to Chris Liebenberg from Bose UAE Trading, the Middle East dealer manager, and Lothar Bopp, whose LOBO Electronic annually produce a spectacular laser and multimedia show at PALME (this year being no exception).
The Sheikh also stopped off at a number of other stands on his journey through the fair, including GSL Professional, VV & Sons, PROCOM, SGTC Pro and TechnoPro.
This kick started a vibrant opening day's trading, with several stands reporting the signing of new distribution deals and others predicting potential sales to new customers.
(Jim Evans)
