Monday 22nd February

With many regional markets having been saturated with investment over the boom years of 2004-2008, and investors having been scarred by large scale asset devaluation amidst the global economic crisis, where are the opportunities as we move into 2010? Business Monitor International’s Liz Martins and Shonil Chande look at some of the less obvious MENA markets, such as Libya, Iraq and Syria, discussing the risks and opportunities inherent in each, comparing them with more established emerging markets, and evaluating the business environment for food and drink companies.

The performance of the hotel sector presents an important and timely indicator of the strength of the Food & Beverage sector. Deloitte will examine the Middle East region and global hotel performance for 2010 and consider some of the indicators for the year ahead.

Rob O’Hanlon
Partner
Deloitte & Touche

In his presentation John will address a number of underlying trends in the global food and soft drinks category and explain the implications
for local brands.  His presentation will cover topics such as:

- obesity, health and convenience
- purity and provenance
- the rise of fairtrade and ethical food
- driving desire through design
- how the digital landscape is changing the food marketing landscape

To close his presentation, John will summarise with five practical tips based on the above to win business and create a powerful brand.

John Brash
Founder & CEO
Brash FZ LLC

For the food industry, health issues present both challenge and opportunity in sales, marketing and production. This presentation discusses the major health problems the food industry should be cognizant of, from diabetes to obesity, qualifies global variations with statistics and identifies the regional issues with special attention to the Gulf & Middle East.

Dr Philippe Fouler
Market Development Manager
Middle East & Latin America
Roquette

How sources affect prices. How global weather conditions affect flavours.
Main fruits and their distribution channels. Commodities trading and market conditions

Kees Cools
Executive Director
Doehler Group