yummex Middle East 2018: current trends and innovations for sweets and snacks in the MENA region

According to Euromonitor International, innovations and leading regional trends such as product upscaling, health and provenance certification are expected to be growth drivers for the food import market in the Gulf countries, which is expected to reach a value of USD 53.1 bn by 2020. The annual growth forecast for the snacks industry in the region is around 5%. yummex ME therefore provides the best prerequisites for participating in this growth and being successful in the MENA region with target group-oriented products. ”In the extremely dynamic market environment of the MENA region, yummex ME also once again presents numerous innovations and the relevant market trends of the region at the 12th edition of the trade fair”, Denis Steker, Vice President International of Koelnmesse GmbH, summarises.

Many new exhibitors have applied for this year‘s event. Around 300 exhibiting companies from around 40 countries offer the newest products and services at yummex ME. Top companies like Jelly Belly (USA), Katjes (Germany), United Confectioners (Russia), Barcel SA de CV/Grupo Bimbo (Mexico), Prestige 96 (Bulgaria) and BMB Foodstuff (UAE) have confirmed their participation. For the first time, exhibitors from the Czech Republic and Latvia will be participating in the service and trend show for the region.

Sixteen regional and international pavilions, including from Brazil, Germany, Iran, the Netherlands, Mexico, Spain, Turkey and the USA emphasise the international attractiveness of the event for companies from abroad. International participation has achieved a share of around 90%. yummex ME is thus also the unique international industry meeting point and the established trend show for sweets and snacks in the MENA region. The trade fair is organised jointly by the Dubai World Trade Centre and Koelnmesse GmbH.