The company said that the unit, which it set up a year ago, has successfully enabled it to significantly strengthen its presence in the baked goods market in the region.
“Thanks to the facility we set up last year in Dubai with our own blending equipment, we can now offer our clients in the region even better and faster access to our products, services and production sites,” said Dr Karim Greiss, managing director at Symrise.
Importance of Middle East
Greiss said the Middle East and North Africa were two of Symrise's key markets.
A spokesperson for the company told BakeryandSnacks.com that demand in the Middle East was for predominantly sweet goods which meant there was increasing demand for baked products.
The company said that special flavours for the baked-goods and candy industry had been developed as a result.
By investing in Dubai, the spokesperson said that the site also allows the company to serve neighbouring areas.
Although the main headquarters in Holzminden Germany carries out most of the company’s research, the Dubai application technology unit focuses on developing flavours specific to different local traditions and consumer preferences in the Middle Eastern region.
In 2009, Symrise posted sales of €1,362m. In terms of sales, Symrise is the world´s fourth largest player in the flavours and fragrances market with an estimated market share of around 10 per cent.