The Middle East Coatings Show 2009, now in its 16th year, took place in March in Cairo. It remains the only dedicated event in the Middle East and Gulf Region for raw material suppliers and equipment manufacturers to the coatings industry.
Since the start of the decade the Egyptian construction industry has demonstrated an average annual growth rate in the order of 8%, and it now represents one of the largest markets in the Middle East, after Dubai.
Decorative paints represent more than 80% of locally manufactured product, and the sector continues to be buoyed by strong demand from the construction of residential complexes aimed at the tourist industry.
For the third consecutive year Orkila has, in conjunction with its partners, exhibited at the MECS, promoting a wide range of products and services from those manufacturers active in the paints, coatings, construction and adhesives markets.
The objective was to bring together our customers, both existing and potential, and representatives, both technical and commercial, of the manufacturing companies represented by Orkila to the mutual benefit of all concerned.
Despite the difficult economic climate, attendance was high and the quality of the visitors to the Orkila stand exceeded expectations, many being senior managers and decision makers.
On the marketing side, the event enabled Orkila and its partners to strengthen its brand and receive exposure and photo opportunities in several trade publications.
From the commercial standpoint, a number of contracts were signed during the course of the event and many contacts made which, we are confident, will result in future sales.
Overall Orkila believes that the MECS was a positive experience and we are actively considering participation in the next event scheduled to take place in Dubai in March 2010.
Footnote from Bluestar Silicones:
Bluestar Silicones was hosted by Orkila at this year’s MECS and given the opportunity to exhibit Bluestar’s range of silicone products for application in decorative paints, water repellents, mould making RTV2, core fluids and sealants. Many customers and prospective customers visited the Orkila stand from countries throughout the Middle East and Africa and Bluestar was able to conclude contracts during the event valued at in excess of Euro 250K. For Bluestar the 2009 MECS proved to be a valuable experience and one that we look forward to repeating in 2010.
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