How has Hardware+Tools Middle East developed as a trade show that reflects the regional industry over the years?
Hardware+Tools Middle East is the only dedicated trade fair for hardware, tools, materials and machinery for the region. As such an event, it continues to mirror the regional market trends and focuses the attention of international manufacturers and suppliers to regional requirements. The exhibition is now considered as a viable trade and business development platform for international players looking to engage and interact with regional buyers.

The growing level of investment and interest in the now expanding infrastructure sector is expected to impact favourably on the demand for fresh supplies of hardware and tools, according to Epoc Messe Frankfurt, organiser of Hardware+Tools Middle East.

Could you touch on the current state of the market for this trade fair?
Hardware+Tools Middle East represents industries that are currently enjoying good prospects. Demand for instruments for use on construction sites is expected to be on the upswing thanks to the reviving real estate market across the Middle East. Additionally, a slow down in some of the major markets workdwide has turned the eyes of the international majors towards the Middle East, so, all in all, Hardware+Tools Middle East is currently representing a market with high growth prospects.

You mentioned increased interest from international manufacturers, could you specify?
Apart from sustained interest from exhibiors from traditionally strong countries in Europe, such as Germany, Italy and the UK, we are seeing growing interest from companies in China and India for this year’s edition. The Chinese Pavilion will occupy a prominent place on the show floor with 150 companies on board and the exhibition will feature an Indian Pavilion for the very first time.

Could you elaborate a bit on the Indian Pavilion?
The Indian Pavilion is making its debut at the show and is being organised in cooperation with the Ludhiana Hand Tools Association which accounts for around 50% of India’s hand tool production. The pavilion will featre a range of tool and machinery manufacturers including Deeps, Mansarovar Impex, Pye Tools, Prima, Kangaro and Balwindra Tools.

What are the key aspects that exhibitors would be looking at during this year’s Hardware+Tools Middle East?
With the construction industry’s fortunes on the upswing, I would expect regional buyers and trader visitors to concentrate on the wide range of products on display at the show which could be useful on building sites. There will also be strong interest in power tools and hand tools. Furthermore, we expect some interest in energy efficient tools as there is increasing awareness about environmental concerns and sustainability in the regional industry.

There has been a lot of buzz over green building technology. Do you foresee any change in approach regionally?
There is increasing emphasis on the implementation of green building technology in projects across the GCC. Governments are now stressing the importance of implementing such methods and are currently in the process of legislating and mandating the adoption of green standsards in all buildings. This is expected to have a considerable impact on the consutrction industry in general. At Hardware+Tools Middle East our exhibitors will be keen to showcase products and services which can contribute to this green movement.

Could you elaborate on any additional features at Hardwre+Tools Middle East 2013?
This year will see the return of the live demonstration area which is increasing in popularity by the year. As before, this features a dedicated demonstration area where selected exhibitors can demonstrate their products and services in a more interactive environment.

Show Profiles:
Hardware+Tools is the Middle East’s only dedicated event for tools, hardware materials and machinery.  Industry  professionals  involved  in  the  supply  of  equipment  to  or  the design, construction, build or specification of commercial or residential developments understand the importance of keeping up to date with new products, services and technology in the field.

Hardware+Tools Middle East is the perfect platform to meet new contacts, discuss new trends and technological developments, keep up to date with industry knowledge and source new products and solutions. The next edition will take place from June 11 – 13, 2013 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. Show website: www.hardwaretoolsme.com.