CONSUMER SPENDING ON INFANT FURNITURE TO REACH US$ 1.52 BILLION

Dubai The demand for specialised furniture and equipment for infants and children is on the increase worldwide as awareness grows about possible health and safety risks posed by items that are not child-safe or do not fall under the more stringent safety standards.

This growing trend is reflected in recent  research which indicates that the overall market for infant furniture is expected to be worth approximately US$ 1.52 billion by 2011, a growth of 28% over five years since 2006*.

Leading exhibition organiser, Epoc Messe Frankfurt is looking to cater to the needs of this important but specialised market, by featuring a range of child-friendly, safe products meant for infants and babies as part of Playworld Middle East, a trade event that specialises in the world of kids’ toys, games and lifestyle products.

The exhibition will make its Middle East debut at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre from March 7-9, 2011 and is expected to attract key manufacturers, suppliers, designers and distributors from across the region.

“Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the health and safety risks posed by sub-standard material and manufacturers,” said Ahmed Pauwels, Chief Executive Officer of exhibition organiser Epoc Messe Frankfurt. “When it comes to their children, no parent wants to cut any corners or leave anything to chance. This has led to increasing demand for high-quality, child-safe materials across the region.”

This increased awareness on child equipment safety has led to a rise in consumers now insisting upon products that are made from the finest quality material. Children’s bedroom furniture, bassinets, cribs, strollers and car seats to name a few must follow strict safety standards. The best children’s furniture is made of soft-finish wood minus any sharp corners. In addition, furnishings should be of supple material to avoid any chances of abrasions and infant equipment should not contain flimsy parts or toxic and lead-containing paint etc.

A range of leading suppliers and manufacturers of children’s equipment and furniture will be displayed during the three day trade exhibition, making it a must-attend event for those wanting to source new products and services within the industry.