BIG 5: In their own words

Some of the Big 5’s Asia-based exhibitors give their thoughts on the show...

Kenny Song, sales representative doors and window hardware Kin Long [8A364]

We’re hoping to make a few more friends in construction circles and also to put our brand out there and demonstrate our quality to visitors.

We provided curtain wall expertise on the Burj Dubai, as well as the Beijing National Stadium [The Bird’s Nest].

Although we’re very big in China, we’re still fairly small in the Gulf but we’re confident we can change that with our product and service.

Hyeon Jeong Kim, Bethel Engineering [7G312]

This is actually our second year at the Big 5 show and we’re looking to build relationships with potential agents here in Dubai.

We work with a lot of companies back in Korea and want to expand that network.

The crowds here are actually a lot better than we expected, given the economic climate, but we also think that more and more visitors will come through the doors throughout the rest of the week.

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We’re definitely here to find some direct customers, as we’re sure that the Middle East represents a growing market for our aluminium products and services.

We’re looking for a whole range of customers, from specifiers and contractors to developers.

Jiang Shuhui, general sales manager Dezhou Zhenhua Decoration Glass Co [AM47]

We saw this as an opportunity to come over and see some of our customers – we already have a steady customer base in the Middle East.

As a result of the slowdown in construction, we’ve noticed that there are a lot more wholesalers and retailers at the show this year, while some of the bigger manufacturers have perhaps chosen not to spend on exhibitions.

The Middle East is a more difficult market than it was and, in some cases, clients are looking for cheaper, low quality alternatives.

Our product has a good reputation throughout the region as it is high quality, provides excellent sound insulation and comes in a variety of designs. Our tiles aren’t only decorative but can be used to create fully functioning walls too.