Automechanika Dubai 2019, the 17th edition of the Middle East and Africa's (MEA) largest automotive aftermarket trade fair, was opened Monday by Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. With 1,880 exhibitors from 63 countries spanning 63,300sqm at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, the annual three-day event features 23 country pavilions and 34 international trade associations, while more than half of the 32,000-plus trade visitors are expected to come from outside of the UAE. The biggest names in the global automotive aftermarket will look to make big inroads in a MEA spare parts market and auto services industry that's estimated to grow by six percent annually over the next six years. "Automechanika Dubai over the years has transformed into a trade event of truly global scale, thanks to its continued track record of innovation, targeting and fine tuning its offerings in line with the particular market requirements," said Mahmut Gazi Bilikozen, Automechanika Dubai's Show Director. "We're confident that demand for the automotive service industry and aftermarket products will remain robust, with growth largely fuelled by demand from existing vehicle parc and the expected improvement of car sales moving forward. "With that said, the aftermarket is changing, and with that change comes new opportunities. Our vision for Automechanika Dubai is to be at the forefront of these new opportunities, presenting a unique platform for all industry stakeholders to start discussions, plan ahead, and to ultimately lay the foundations for long-term sustainable success." Automechanika Dubai 2019 covers the six major product sections of Parts & Components and Electronics & Systems (1,181 exhibitors); Accessories & Customizing (246 exhibitors); Tyres & Batteries (226 exhibitors); Repair & Maintenance (155 exhibitors); and Car Wash, Care & Reconditioning (72 exhibitors). It opens as the MEA's auto aftermarket, valued at $61billion in 2018, is estimated to continue its upward trajectory, valuing $87.3billion in 2024, according to analysts TechSci Research. Organizer Messe Frankfurt Middle East also added new sub-sections that underline the show's evolution, namely Agricultural Parts & Equipment; Body & Paint; Motorcycle Competence; and Oils & Lubricants. Exhibitors are keen to use Automechanika Dubai's impressive regional scope to reach out to far-flung markets. Emerald Spare Parts, based in the UAE and distributors of auto parts, batteries and lubricants for Japanese and Korean cars, is looking to reach new markets. Rajesh Daga, assistant general manager of Emerald Spare Parts said: "The majority our business comes from the Middle East and Africa, where we've been traditionally very strong. Demand in these markets have been growing at a fast clip, and we've also evolved keeping in mind the intricacies of working in these markets. "We feel some of these markets are maturing and also becoming financially stronger. Hence, we feel high quality products that we represent, will have a greater demand and consumption." Balkrishna Industries (BKT) is a manufacturer and exporter of Off Highway Tires, and one of the headline returning exhibitors to Automechanika Dubai in 2019. The Indian-headquartered BKT is one of the world's fastest growing companies in the OHT segment, with a 5th manufacturing facility planned in Tennessee, USA. "This will be the first BKT manufacturing facility outside India, and will be helpful in increasing our presence in the American continent," said Rajiv Poddar, joint managing director of BKT. "BKT growth will be mainly coming from the All Steel OTR (Off-The-Road) radials as this the fastest growing segment for BKT. Owing to the sustained market demand, BKT will also grow in Construction and Industrial tire segments with its vast product range. "At Automechanika Dubai 2019, BKT is launching its first "On & Off road" Tipper tire 12.00R24 in SR423 pattern. In addition, some important sizes in Multi-Purpose Truck segment are being showcased. BKT is also expanding its range in Solid tire segment where 4.00 – 8 ECO Rib pattern has been introduced for Ground Support Equipment and 7.00 – 12 Maglift ECO pattern as a high performance tire for Forklift and Material Handling," added Poddar. Elsewhere, Polish manufacturer Troton is a headline exhibitor in the new Body & Paint section, and is launching its Brayt line of polishing compounds and the Rangers bed liner. "The weather in this region can be harsh on the car, what with the intense heat and dusty conditions," said Karol Duda, Director of Business Development at Troton. "Applying Brayt protect a car's exterior from road dirt and the sun's harmful UV rays. Polishing systems are recommended for fresh and old paint coatings and easily removes scratches and traces ensuring the achievement of the perfect glossy finish. Optimal modern formulation prevents surface overheating and allows for easy cleaning. "The Rangers bed liner is designed to protect the underbodies of vehicles to be used on wheel house liners, tub liners, fender flares, bumper bars and industrial applications. We started out as an easy way for truck owners to protect their cargo area, however it's grown to be more than that. Today, Rangers is in use in all kinds of industries from automotive restoration, off-roaders, bikes, agricultural, and even with heavy equipment," Duda added. A key returning highlight to Automechanika Dubai 2019 this week is the Innovation Zone, a dedicated area at the centre of the show floor featuring presentations and product showcases from exhibitors such as Wabco and FSE that are steering the course for the regional and global automotive aftermarket. Other features include the Truck Competence initiative, where 1,260 exhibitors are showcasing their products dedicated to the entire value chain in the truck sector, from truck parts and accessories, to workshop equipment, body repairs and care. The Automechanika Academy (AA) also returns, featuring key presentations such as Dubai's auto parts and accessories trade in 2018 by the Dubai Customs, along with the findings of a survey exploring innovations in the Middle East automotive industry by global research company Explori. Other AA highlights include a series of sessions by AMENA and Tiqani, as well as AfriConnections, which explores rising opportunities in the African aftermarket. — SG
