The GCC's facility management (FM) industry might be small compared to more developed regions, but the market is already worth $4.2 billion (Dh15.42 billion). International research and consultancy firm Frost & Sullivan predicts it will be worth $9 billion by 2014.
The industry has seen a steady and positive growth rate over the last five years, superseding declining economic forecasts. Insiders attribute this largely to the growth of the GCC region as a business hub, attracting increased investments from both local and international players. As investments increase across markets such as construction, retail and real estate, so does the need for an advanced FM infrastructure.
FM Expo, the largest exhibition for the facilities management industry in the region, aims to address this need. "The industry here in the Middle East may not be as mature a market as in Europe, for example, however, the products and services being delivered here are much sought after, and as a result we expect to see the show grow significantly this year," says David Thompson, Event Manager.
In the Middle East, the FM sector encompasses a mix of in-house departments, specialist contractors, large multi-service companies, and consortia delivering the full range of design, build, finance and management functions. The industry has played a key role in building awareness among local businesses on the importance of reducing the carbon footprint of buildings, to ensure an environmentally friendly sustainable business.
As a fast-growing market, key issues, such as waste management, sustainability, global standards and legal framework, are expected to be just some of the areas the regional FM industry will evolve and benefit from.
In 2011, FM Expo was able to capitalise on and reach out to the more than 50,000 participants who attended The Big 5. This year, FM Expo is expected to be 20 per cent bigger with an increase of 50 per cent in visitors.
"Last year was FM Expo's debut alongside The Big 5 exhibition, with overwhelmingly positive feedback from both exhibitors and visitors," says Thompson.
