Braving torrential downpours
that threatened to disrupt proceedings, the 30th edition of the Middle East
Coatings Show (MECS) 2024 carried on undeterred at the Dubai World Trade Centre
from April 16-18. Among the exhibitors was H.A.K Industrial Chemicals, a division
of the esteemed The Kanoo Group, unveiling its latest innovations in paint and
coatings technology.
For three decades, MECS has
served as a pivotal platform connecting industry professionals across the
Middle East and North Africa. This year's event brought together over 350
exhibiting brands from 24 nations, representing the entire coatings value chain
– from raw material suppliers to equipment manufacturers. The show floor buzzed
with manufacturers, distributors, buyers, and technical experts exploring new
products, exchanging ideas, and fostering vital business connections.
The UAE's coatings market has
seen remarkable growth, expanding from $747.38 million in 2022 to $766.33
million in 2023, a 2.67% increase according to Mordor Intelligence. This
upswing has attracted significant investments, exemplified by Jotun's $41
million facility inauguration in Dubai Science Park last January.
Krish Venkatesan, General
Manager of H.A.K Industrial Chemicals, affirmed, "Surging construction
activities across the UAE and neighboring countries are fueling demand for
premium paints and coatings. The construction boom necessitates differentiated,
innovative, and sustainable solutions."
H.A.K Industrial Chemicals
showcased an extensive range of products from its 13 global principals,
catering to diverse coating applications. Notable exhibitors included Arabian
Zinc Oxide Factory's high-purity zinc oxide grades, Cabot's fumed silica and
carbon black offerings, Potters' hollow glass microspheres for paints and
coatings, and Raichem's dibenzoyl peroxide hardeners.
The MENA region is
experiencing robust demand across architectural, decorative, wood, and industrial
coatings segments, with epoxy and polyurethane coatings leading the charge in
the UAE's fast-growing industrial sector.
Venkatesan stated, "This
year, we are actively seeking new suppliers in paints, coatings, and
construction chemicals. For our existing principals, we are continually
exploring ways to expand our geographical reach beyond the UAE and Oman while
maintaining our brand image as a regional market leader."
Despite the inclement
weather, the three-day exhibition attracted customers from the GCC, Middle
East, Africa, and the Indian subcontinent. "More than the quantity, it was
the quality of visitors that impressed us, leading to insightful technical
discussions and potential new business opportunities," remarked
Venkatesan.
He added, "We maintain
stock of most of our products in the UAE, supplying customers across the UAE,
Oman, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, Jordan, and Pakistan. MECS is an
unparalleled platform to bolster our market presence, drive sales, generate
leads, and network with industry pioneers, manufacturers, suppliers,
distributors, and key decision-makers."
Venkatesan concluded,
"We are delighted to reconnect with our customers and partners at MECS
2024, introducing our latest innovations designed to overcome current industry
challenges. Our presence reaffirms our commitment to advancing paint technology
while enhancing operational efficiency and sustainability across the
board."
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