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 There are 257 wine exhibitors from 30 countries including Australia, Austria, Canada, Chile, France, Hungary, Italy, Portugal, South Africa and Spain; in fact 88% of the exhibitors are foreign, underlying the importance perceived by the exhibitors as a whole for this region. In contrast, the 20th edition of FHA has 3198 companies participating from 71 countries and regions representing 81% of the total participation-he balance 19% being by the local exhibitors.
Modelled after ProWein, organised by Messe Düsseldorf, the Singapore Show draws its strength from the globally recognised Show, and is open only to business and trade professionals. FHA is considered to be the most comprehensive and hospitality trade and exhibition and conference since its maiden edition in 1978. It’s considered immensely valuable by the food and  hospitality industry in India and is important for innovation in the industry. Both these Shows will run concurrently.
Presumably for the first time in Asia, a separate Champagne Lounge has been modelled after the one at ProWein since 2013, where the visitors can get a clear and structured view of champagnes and may taste according to their preference and at their own pace, said Gernot Ringling, Managing Director of Messe Düsseldorf of Asia. He estimated there would be 6000 visitors this year during the 4 days. He added that there would be a stream of seminars by experts, without which the wine shows like ProWine ASIA cannot be complete.
 Lindy Wee, CEO of Singapore Exhibition Services said there were 900 more exhibitors at FHA with Halal supermarkets also participating this time. She also pointed out that there were new additions like sensory course in coffee and the First High Tea Challenge.
The Minister pointed out that the show provided innovation and strong partnerships with local resources. Internationalisation and Branding would be the highlight of the Show.
Although FHA 2016 eclipses ProWine ASIA in terms of presence of exhibitors and visitors alike, with Halls 1-9 showcasing Food and Hospitality products while Hall 10 has been assigned the wine segment, this is expected to grow in the future editions.
For more details, please visit www.prowineasia.com and www.foodhotelsasia.com.
Subhash Arora |