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Global sweets and snacks industry giants eager to answer rising international demand for healthier, alternative snacks, will reconnect in person for three days of deal making, dialogue, and discussion at the 14th edition of yummex Middle East at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from 7 – 9 November.
The MENA region’s most established sourcing platform for the sweets and snacks industry returns, in partnership with Koelnmesse GmbH, for the first-time post pandemic with the Middle East’s sweets and snacks market valued at USD6.7 billion and set to increase by 12 per cent this year, according to a new report by Frost & Sullivan titled ‘Top Growth Opportunities within the GCC Sweets & Snacks Industry’.
The report, prepared for yummex Middle East 2021, outlines key performance indicators, with the GCC accounting for an estimated 60 per cent of the Middle East market.
Propelled by the fast-evolving consumer behaviour, the market has innovated to drive industry growth and capitalised on the opening of trade and business opportunities in the region.
“The snacks and confectionery industry, which has witnessed robust growth in recent years, was undoubtedly given added impetus by the pandemic with consumers changing their consumption habits. This adds even more importance to yummex Middle East 2021, as the region’s most established platform for the sweets and snacks industry, and the first sector in-person meet since the pandemic. This year’s show promises to fully unwrap a host of new opportunities for both renowned confectionery producers and new market entrants,” said Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President, Events Management, DWTC.
“This year’s show will underline Dubai’s capability to attract the most influential and innovative minds for three days of big business and charting the way forward for an industry that is only growing as our latest data indicates.”
Denis Steker, Senior Vice President International, at Koelnmesse, said: “With the shift in consumer mindset towards healthier lifestyles and snack alternatives, yummex Middle East gives an opportunity for established brands and newcomers to demonstrate their solutions to meet this new demand. yummex Middle East is the only platform for forward-thinking global manufacturers to fully connect with buyers seeking the best options for the region’s consumers.”
As the region’s number one event for the sweets and snack industry, yummex Middle East 2021 will once again explore the latest trends sweeping the sector.
With Saudi Arabia partially banning hydrogenated oils (PHOs), and the UAE introducing a ban on trans-fat in all food products, including snacks, manufacturers are increasingly faced with the challenge of maintaining taste to satisfy consumers while using natural, alternative ingredients to meet regulations.
Nassma Chocolates for instance will be demonstrating its new range at this year’s show. Patrick Dorais, Director of Sales, said: “We are witnessing an augmented importance and attention to recipes, with consumers increasingly looking for healthier snacks. With this in mind, our products are free from all ‘nasties’, we do not use palm oil or other vegetable fats and ensure only the highest quality standards in our production. We look forward to having great discussions with distributors and retailers in view of growing the footprint of this great range of products.”
