22% increase in Gitex visitor numbers

Power retailers and the leading brands reported a 23 per cent increase in sales to Dh237 million at Gitex Shopper, the largest and most influential consumer IT and electronics sales extravaganza in the Middle East. The show’s move to the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) location was a contributing factor, according to organisers. “Year after year, Gitex Shopper has continued to provide unmatched opportunities for global technology brands and regional retailers, reaching new levels this year, thanks in part to the relocation of the show to its new central DWTC venue. With the latest technology products on display and excellent sales growth reported almost unanimously by our exhibitors, Gitex Shopper 2012 has delivered record results,” Helal Saeed Al Marri, CEO, DWTC, said. Contributing a sizeable 10 per cent of the annual revenues for retailers in the UAE, the show plays a key role in meeting the growing demand across the Middle East and neighbouring markets for the latest technology, gadgets and consumer electronics. Article continues below Visitor numbers also swelled to 206,201, a 22 per cent increase over last year. “This year’s edition was the best ever for Sharaf DG. Not only did we achieve phenomenal sales both at the show and across all our stores in the UAE, it also gave us a chance to increase brand awareness for Sharaf DG,” said Nilesh Khalkho, CEO of Sharaf DG. Vishesh Bhatia, CEO of Jumbo Electronics, confirmed that growth has been in-line with the company’s expectations. “We are excited to record double-digit growth in sales from last year. Tablets have been a significant contributor, with 100 per cent growth over last year. Sales of smartphones also recorded growth of 80 per cent over last year. We believe Jumbo was the largest retailer in this category as well.” Jacky’s recorded a 11 per cent increase in sales. Ashish Panjabi, COO of Jacky’s, said: “ Not only did the exhibition attract returning customers but the new and more accessible venue helped to bring many new visitors to the show, which translated into more sales for us.” Acording to Neleesh Bhatnagar, CEO, Emax, the eight-day shopping extravaganza contributed more than 8 per cent of our annual budget and an impressive 30 per cent of our third-quarter forecast. We look forward to the next show, which we believe is an opportunity to keep our customers enthusiastic about the latest trends and innovations in technology.” From Gulftoday