More than 300 global brands on show as 16th Hardware+Tools Middle East is flagged off in Dubai

Expert Zone makes big splash on debut at region’s dedicated trade fair for tools, hardware, materials, and machinery

Dubai, UAE - 3 June 2015: The 16th edition of Hardware+Tools Middle East was flagged off on its three-day run by His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre today (2 June).

The show got off to a busy start with 214 exhibitors representing 300 global brands showcasing their latest product lines and cutting-edge developments, all eyeing a greater share of the lucrative regional market, where growth in demand for hardware, tools and machinery is being fuelled by a continued surge in the construction industry.

The centre of attention on the opening day was the Expert Zone, a dedicated area for manufacturers to showcase and demonstrate leading products and innovations for the benefit of regional trade buyers.

Key exhibitors taking their bow at the Expert Zone included Milwaukee from the UK, German manufacturers Knipex and Rothenburger, and UAE-based Arwani Trading, which showcased its Sparky and Rhodius brands.

The day also witnessed the regional debuts of new brands from fresh entrants on the scene including Companion Brands from Australia, Italian companies VIPA and Tecnotubi Picena, and Japanese companies BIC Tool and Nitto Kohki.

Also out in force are regular exhibitors such as Deerfos from Korea, American brand Goodyear, Indian manufacturers Blackjack and Kangaro Industries; and UAE-based manufacturer, Almoe.

Hardware+Tools Middle East 2015 arrives as a new report by global consultants Deloitte revealed that US$172 billion worth of construction projects are planned or underway in the GCC in 2015, the highest yearly total on record to date.

“Regional demand for hardware, tools and machinery continues to pick up in the Middle East as growth in the construction of civil and logistics infrastructure and residential and commercial projects continue to surge,” said Ahmed Pauwels, CEO of Messe Frankfurt Middle East, the organiser of Hardware+Tools Middle East.

“As the only truly dedicated trade event serving the hardware, tools and machinery industries across the region, Hardware+Tools Middle East continues to prove attractive as an ideal launch vehicle and business development platform for leading international brands.”

Hardware+Tools Middle East 2015 features country pavilions from China, Taiwan, and Thailand, and is showcasing the full spectrum of hand and power tools, construction and building materials and accessories.