Developments in the industrial, commercial, residential and public lighting segments have boosted the global demand for lighting fixtures that is now set to exceed SR345 billion by 2010, according to conservative industry estimates. Epoc Messe Frankfurt GmbH, the organizers of Light Middle East, to take place at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Center on May 25-27, predicts a growth spurred primarily by end-users in the construction and industrial development sectors. “From basic lights to exquisite chandeliers, simple operating switches to complex sensor controlled lighting systems, Light Middle East provides the ideal business platform for companies involved in the development and manufacture of a range of lighting systems enabling exhibitors to meet buyers from the Middle East, Asia, North Africa region and other parts of the world,” said Eckhard Pruy, CEO of Epoc Messe Frankfurt. Pruy noted that lamps, lighting fixtures and components are the primary categories in the electric lighting business. “Major gains are expected in the categories of luminous and other non-luminescent portable light fittings, such as those in LED lights,” he added. Light Middle East is a much needed platform for property developers, major clients and municipalities from around the region to source lighting solutions in what is clearly one of the most vibrant property development markets in the world. Light Middle East is also the best place to source both architectural design solutions and engineering consultancy. “The lighting business in the Middle East region is driven by superior quality and innovative products,” observed Jessica Minton, show manager of Light Middle East. Apart from portable fixtures, non-portable fittings, such as, industrial fittings are also expected to post good growth. “Commercial, residential and industrial buildings, airports, railways, and replacement products are projected to drive the growth of industrial and commercial lighting fixtures and systems within the Middle East region.” In addition, long- lasting energy saving products, high intensity discharge (HID) lighting, and portable fixtures using light emitting diodes (LED) are also expected to generate good volumes in the region. “Solid-state lighting technology that offers increased energy savings and advanced capabilities is poised to revamp the lightings industry worldwide and accelerate its growth,” Minton stressed. She added the construction boom in the region has ensured that the lighting fixtures market will grow at a CAGR of almost 7 percent that is higher than the global average of 4 percent percent”. Parallel to the Light Middle East exhibition, the “2008 Light Focus Conference” will take place, which is supported by the Professional Lighting Designers Association (PLDA) that will serve as a creative platform to connect a diverse set of lighting designers and architects to explore future trends in design. __
