Exporting British products and services
January 22nd 2008 At the recent Dubai Safety, Security and Fire Exhibition (Intersec 2008) a significant number of British safety, service and supply companies showed their wares. This show is regarded as the major exhibition for security and safety in the Middle East and attracts buyers from all the Middle Eastern countries, Africa and Asia.
Despite a substantial drop in Government support for British export exhibitors, the UK stands were well received and British product is well regarded in Dubai. It was noticeable that British exporters compete with other nations who continue to receive extensive governmental assistance, allowing them larger and impressive national pavilions.
However Mr George Bush Jnr, probably had a greater affect on the show. On Monday 14th January, ‘Mr President’ and his entourage visited Dubai and brought the entire city to a halt. The Dubai Government announced a public holiday for that Monday and all major roads were closed. Mr Bush swept through town in a major cavalcade, but no one else was allowed on the road until after 4pm. The exhibition was virtually empty for the day and even the staff manning the stands could not get in. Those who walked, risked the displeasure of the local police and were often sent on long circular hikes or just turned back.
Overall though, the UK exhibitors, supported by the British Safety Industry Federation through their ‘Exporter help’ programme, meet many new contacts and renewed relationships with existing distributors and customers. BSIF will certainly be leading a delegation to this show in 2009, and if you believe it could be an interesting venue for you to exhibit, please do not hesitate to contact the BSIF on 01442 248744 or E mail on david.lummis@bsif.co.uk
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