Dubai: Gitex Shopper opens for business on Saturday with the stated promise of luring customers with the latest gizmos, promotions and bundled offers.
The biggest names in the retail sector Al Falak, E-City, Emax, Geekay Games, iStyle, Jacky’s Electronics, Jumbo Electronics, Max Electronics, Mega Electronics, MK Trading, One Mobile, 050 Telecom, Plugs Ins, Tec Buy and Sharaf DG — will all be there at the Dubai World Trade Centre halls spread over 35,000 square metres.
“We expect over 200,000 to visit the event; open for 12 hours every day and having a dedicated Metro station just metres from the door of the show, access to Gitex Shopper has never been easier,” said Hemesh Chandavarkar, director of the consumer cluster, exhibitions and events management at DWTC and organiser of the show. “For drivers, ample parking is also available within easy proximity to the venue.”
DWTC is focused on delivering direct and indirect benefits to the economy by attracting a high volume of international visitor traffic and driving significant foreign spend.
According to a recent Economic Impact Assessment report prepared by Oxford Economics, it contributed Dh6.5 billion towards Dubai’s economy in 2011 — the equivalent of 2.1 per cent of GDP. Gitex Technology Week and Gitex Shopper, given their size and stature, play a significant role in this respect.
“Apart from the fact that personal income in the region is so high to allow purchase throughout the year, I believe that it’s during Gitex that they should spend the most to take advantage of the unmatched offers and deals,” said Neelesh Bhatnagar, CEO at Emax Electronics. “Our participation at the six previous editions of the show is a proof-point. Year-on-year, we achieved substantial sales growth as consumers became increasingly aware of the unique opportunity Gitex has provided them with.”
Large-size panels
Definitely, smartphones and tablets are finding more traction amongst the consumer base and will take up most of the attention. In line with that, accessory sales are also growing as it meets the needs of consumers purchasing mobiles and tablets. Retailers also expect to see a boost in large-size panels, in 3D and Smart technologies.
“Over 120 exhibitors, inclusive leading brands, will have exciting new product launches and unbeatable offers across the full range of technology, communication and entertainment sectors,” Chandavarkar said.
Last year, Gitex recorded over 206,000 visitors, 22 per cent increase more than the 2011 edition. “Benefiting from what is by far the largest consumer event in the Middle East, the show’s participating retailers reported total sales in excess of Dh237 million, up 23 per cent over 2011, with expectations for record results this year,” Chandavarkar added.