A press conference was held on Monday by IFP (International Fairs & Promotions) at the port of Beirut, to announce the launch of Beirut Boat 2014, the 9th International Boat and Super Yacht Show, in the presence of media and maritime industry representatives from Lebanon and the region, in addition to a number of diplomats and businesspeople.
Organized by IFP in collaboration with Messe Düsseldorf under the auspices of the President of the Republic of Lebanon, General Michel Suleiman, the show will take place at the Port of Beirut’s Pier 1 from 14 to 18 May 2014.
During his speech, Edward Aoun, IFP board member, welcomed the conference attendees and gave an overview of the show’s development with regards to the regional marine industry markets and the distinguishing potential that characterizes Lebanon in this field.
Aoun said: "At IFP, we have always worked according to the concept that success must be consistent. After eight editions, Beirut Boat is considered as the cornerstone of marine tourism in Lebanon, on both regional and international levels, and a date that is eagerly awaited by maritime enthusiasts. With the resounding success of the 2012 edition, we found ourselves facing the challenge of creating the best possible conditions in terms of space, facilities and services that can contribute to the growth of the show in light of the growing loyalty and dedication of our exhibitors. The decision to transfer the show to the Port of Beirut is a measured step that combines the professional aspect of the harbor and the touristic vibe of the event; thus benefiting from the location and its facilities to enhance its position on the region’s aquatic map. Moving the show to downtown Beirut, which is recognized as the undeniable epicenter of business, entertainment and lavish lifestyles, will raise the event’s ability to attract visitors. These are all elements that will benefit Beirut Boat to evolve on both organizational and commercial levels.”
Aoun continued: “Since its launch, this exhibition has been an added value to tourism in Lebanon because of the vitality of its recreational sector as the main catalyst of touristic revenues. This mostly includes large numbers of boat enthusiasts and maritime activities, especially from Arab countries, who spend their seasonal or annual holidays in the Lebanese seaports, where many of the luxury yacht owners keep their boats on display for the entire year, then sail or transport them to Europe in the summer, thanks to Lebanon’s advantageous and distinctive location.”
Aoun noted that: "In spite of all the circumstances surrounding us in the Arab region, the joint decision between us as organizers, partners, sponsors and exhibitors was to go ahead with this year's show, for we all believe that Lebanon remains the region’s most prominent destination for all yacht and boat companies and international marine sports manufacturers, who are looking for opportunities in the Middle East’s emerging markets."
Aoun concluded his speech by thanking His Excellency President Michel Suleiman for supporting the show, in addition to giving thanks to the ministries and official bodies that contributed in making the move to the Port of Beirut possible, as well as the sponsors: Maserati, Riviera Hotel, Ulyssee Nardin watches, and all media partners.
The Beirut International Boat and Super Yacht Show is considered one of the leading exhibitions in the Middle East’s navigation entertainment sector, given the range of factors that promote the importance of the show; starting from Beirut’s location on the Mediterranean, its maritime heritage and modern allure, to how Lebanon is perceived as a promising market to global maritime industries, as well as an ideal place to meet with wealthy senior Arab buyers. Another distinguishing attribute of the exhibition is the fact that it is organized in collaboration with Messe Düsseldorf, a global leader in the organization of marine shows, such as Boot Düsseldorf, one of the largest maritime exhibitions in the world.
The exhibition also plays an important role as a platform that combines sector parties, and singles out the space for them to discuss their commonalities in an environment which acquires all the elements of luxury and privacy. The show also provides for exhibitors and visitors alike a comprehensive business environment covering all sectors of maritime and marine life, where aficionados of such a lifestyle can find in the exhibition an eclectic array of marine sports equipment and accessories. Moreover, this sector is witnessing an indubitable growth and an increasing interest from international companies hoping to keep abreast of the developments.
According to the Beirut Boat’s Project Manager at IFP Group, Rayane Imad: “Pier 1 will include the leading global producers of yachts and boats, who will be presenting their latest innovations, from luxury yachts to the finest models of leisure and fishing crafts, and internationally recognized products. About 200 leading brands from over 10 countries will be showcsing their products at the exhibition. The represented countries include Brazil, Cyprus, Egypt, Germany, Greece, Italy, Lebanon, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, and the UAE. In addition, the on-land exhibition will include a number of internationally renowned companies for maritime manufacturing, presenting equipment and accessories for different marine sports, including diving, fishing and water skiing gear. In addition, there is a wide display of luxury goods from fashion and accessories, to jewelry, watches, and much more."
Imad is expecting the exhibition to attract more than 25,000 visitors from Lebanon and the Arab region over a five-day period. She added: "IFP benefits from its widespread regional reach and representative offices in a number of countries in the region to invite dignitaries from Iraq, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and other countries to attend the show."
Imad also notes: "A VIP lounge sponsored by Bank Audi has been allocated with all the elements of luxury and privacy, allowing them to discuss business quietly or to relax and enjoy the show’s atmosphere."
The conference was concluded with an invitation to all yacht enthusiasts and marine sport professionals, to visit the exhibition and explore a world of luxury and sophistication, while living an exciting experience in an atmosphere of lavishness and fun.
ifpinfo
13 May
