UAE: Franchising expertise and networking at international forum in Dubai

Midamar and World Franchise Associates co-sponsor International Franchise Forum In Dubai 

Midamar Director of Business Development, Von Kennedy will be speaking about factors involved in distribution, supply and halal food approvals at the 3rd Annual International Franchise Forum on October 2nd and 3rd. The Forum will be held in Dubai at the JW Marriott Hotel in Deira City Center.

Returning to Dubai for the third time, the Forum has been extended to cover the additional seminars and presentations as well as one to one business meetings over the two days. USA and European Restaurant brands will be meeting investors and hospitality executives from the Middle East. The forum promises to provide insights from both the franchisee and the franchisor perspectives.

As a sourcing and supply partner to top US restaurant concepts and hospitality brands in the Middle East, Midamar is proud to co-sponsor this event with World Franchise Associates. Von Kennedy will meet with delegates to discuss the details of getting the right products and supplies to the right place at the right time. With over 35 years of exporting to the Middle East and SE Asia, Midamar has achieved numerous supply chain efficiencies that benefit US restaurant brands.

The new program will be supported by 20 Speakers. Highlights include:

•     Keynote Address by Mr Hani Kafafi, Al Houda Hotels & Tourism, Kuwait
•    “Launching a Restaurant concept” – Huseyin Sevket (Allied Brothers)
•    “Operational and financial essentials of franchising” – Murad Alnasur, Prime Hospitality
•    “The importance of good branding” – Charlie Weeks of La Tagliatella
•    “What are the key questions to ask franchisors?” – Sary Hamway (FranExcel)
•    “How we developed successful brands” – Al Madani Group
•    Presentations on supply chains & distribution, women in franchising, the importance of    social media (Facebook and Twitter), shopping mall locations and much more

More than 50 franchise brands from the Food & Hospitality, Retail, Services and B2B sectors will also be presented. Business meetings with the franchisors will be scheduled in advance. Forum Director Kit Brinkley explained, “The Delegate ticket price per person of 800 AED (220 USD) is a great value for 2 days of inspiring sessions and networking with top brand executives. We want to inform delegates about the dynamic and ever growing franchise sector and bring new franchises to the region.”

The forum includes 1 to 1 meetings with franchisors and speakers and lunch on each day. World Franchise Associates’ experts are also available to answer questions and discuss the ins and outs of franchising.

Commenting on the 2011 forum, Peter Wright, formerly of Panera Bread, USA said the International Franchise Forum was “The most productive industry event I have attended.” Delegate Abdulkarim Smiley of AKAR, UAE expressed his gratitude for the knowledge and information gained at the last session, “Thank you again for staging a wonderful forum and a great learning experience.”

Details about the event can be found at the World Franchise Associates website:http://www.worldfranchiseassociates.com/franchise-forum-dubai-2012-oct.php