PANASONIC
The latest technology has been launched in the Middle East with a range of Panasonic’s award winning quick steam dry irons capable of 360 degree of easy movement, reducing ironing time by 25 percent when compared to corded irons. These new Made in Japan irons have a unique elliptical-shaped oversized soleplate which is pointed on both ends. User friendly and ergonomically designed, these irons allow for a smooth 360 Degree movement. Easier and faster, the 360 Degree irons save 25 percent energy and time. “Ironing in today’s busy schedule needs to be quick and easy. Panasonic’s new range of 360 Degree Quick steam dry irons does precisely this. Ergonomically designed, it balances perfectly in the hand, minimizing strain on the hands and arms. The unique design of the sole plate allows for quicker, easier, and effortless ironing in any direction,” said Riad Al-Ayash, product manager, home appliances of Alesayi Electronics Co. “The new 360 Degree iron comes in three models; the JW670 incorporates a ceramic soleplate, whereas the JW660 and JW650 incorporate titanium soleplates. All the models have a 200cc water capacity, with 30g of steam production,” Takahiro Kiyama, manager, consumer products of Alesayi Electronics Co., said during the media presentation at Jeddah Hilton recently.
DIFC
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) on Tuesday announced that Scotiabank, one of North America’s leading financial institutions, has received a license from the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) to operate within the financial district. Scotiabank is the first Canadian bank to operate from the DIFC. The license allows the bank’s ScotiaMocatta division - a global leader in precious metals trading, financing and physical products - to open its own branch in the DIFC. “We are very happy to welcome Scotiabank, the first Canadian bank to join the DIFC,” said Ahmed Humaid Al-Tayer, governor of DIFC. “As the DIFC begins to play a more prominent role in the global economy, we are keen to expand the industry cluster within the financial district with new companies from across the global financial industry that can bring unique new expertise to the region. Scotiabank’s presence will further enhance the geographical diversity of firms in the DIFC.”
GIORDANO
International retailer Giordano adopts a new approach to the apparel world, reevaluating product lines and focusing on the essentials. While business continues to grow at a steady rate and expansion plans continue, Giordano’s essentials product line, Giordano Junior and BSX presents strong growth opportunities. During November, the group experienced double digit growth across all brands; a clear indication that key markets are demonstrating signs of recovery. Giordano Junior, the group’s children’s brand grew by more than ten percent, not just for the month, but for the whole of 2009 to date. Giordano’s youth brand, BSX, exclusively available in Saudi Arabia, has also witnessed an excellent reception and will continue to be an area of expansion for the group. “The growth in these brands reflects consumer preference toward segmented clothing brands that cater to specific needs. The Middle East market is very dynamic and gives us the flexibility to explore new avenues or even revisit past successes,” said Ishwar Chugani, executive director, Giordano Fashions LLC.
WOODSHOW DUBAI
The “WoodShow Dubai,” the Middle East’s only wood industry focused exhibition, will kick off its 2010 edition, with over 250 global exhibitors from more than 40 countries set to participate during its three-day run from April 13 to 15, 2010 at the Central and East Hall of Dubai Airport Expo. The expected growth in the international exhibitor count is in line with the rising demand for hardwood lumber in the region, with import figures projected to reach an estimated $500 million in 2009. This increase has prompted Strategic Marketing & Exhibitions, the event organizers, to expand the event’s gross area, which will cover 16,944 sq. meters and feature different halls for forestry and products, tools, equipment, finishing, timber, and outdoor furniture in 2010. “The changes we have implemented within ‘WoodShow Dubai’ underlines our strong commitment to adequately address the needs of the market for a venue where traders and professionals can learn more about wood, while driving the overall growth of the wood industry,” said Dawood Al-Shezawi, managing director, strategic marketing & exhibitions.
JEC
Headed by Jazan’s Chamber of Commerce Secretary and head of the region’s investment council Ahmed Gunfudi, a delegation of Jazan Investment Council visited Jazan Economic City (JEC) recently. The delegation also included Mohammed Nasser Shiraim, GM of Agricultural Affairs Dept. at the region; Mohammed Bin Ezzy Alzubaidi of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry at Jazan; Ali Bin Ahmed Alharbi of the Labor Bureau; and several members of the council. The delegation, which was accompanied by various characters of JEC’s officials, has conducted a field visit to the project site, as they observed several sites of progressing constructions, such as the iron and steel cluster and power plant linking Jazan Economic City to Alshigaig power plant through Algudmy Plant, and the power transmission plant project as well.
NEUTRAL GROUP
The Neutral Group, a carbon abatement consulting and execution company, recently announced it has received a license to operate from Masdar City, the emerging global clean technology cluster in Abu Dhabi. The company, which is relocating its headquarters to Masdar City, is the first carbon abatement consultancy to be licensed by the zero-waste, carbon-neutral, renewable energy-powered city. With offices already in London and New York, The Neutral Group selected Masdar City for its headquarters because of the city’s emerging global role as a hub of the flourishing cleantech sector, the numerous business opportunities in the fast-growing region and the city’s tax-free, free zone status. Khaled Awad, director of Masdar City, said, “Firms such as The Neutral Group provide an important service by helping companies reduce their carbon footprint in a manner that serves the environment and helps their bottom lines. The Neutral Group’s presence in Masdar City reflects the unique mix of firms and the synergy that characterizes the business environment in the city.”
DANUBE BUILDMART
Abu Dhabi is expected to award $7 billion worth of construction contracts by the end of 2009, amidst the continuing progress of many developments, which is attracting contractors and investors alike. In line with this, Danube Building Materials, the leader in construction, building materials and shop fitting industries, seeks to leverage the expected increase in demand for construction and building materials in the UAE capital. As part of its expansion to Abu Dhabi, the company has launched recently a 7,500 sq. ft. retail store - “Danube BUILDMART”, which offers more than 15,000 products.
The “Danube BUILDMART” branch in Abu Dhabi is witnessing success and growing patronage among contractors, joineries and architects due to its complete selection of home interiors and building materials. “Demand is being driven primarily by the Abu Dhabi government’s consumption and its unwavering efforts to promote the emirate as a leading business and tourism hub via improvements in infrastructure and major construction projects,” said Rizwan Sajan, chairman, Danube Building Materials.