Riyadh to host inaugural SaudiFood Manufacturing show

The SaudiFood Manufacturing exhibition will convene more than 400 global brands from 35 countries for the first time in the Kingdom.
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Updated 22 April 2024
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Riyadh to host inaugural SaudiFood Manufacturing show

The inaugural edition of SaudiFood Manufacturing, the first dedicated F&B manufacturing event in the Kingdom spanning processing, packaging and ingredients, will be the launchpad for the industry to take its place at the heart of Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation. Following the highly successful launch of The Saudi Food Show, the largest food event in the Kingdom, organizers KAOUN International and dmg events, recently unveiled highlights of the much-anticipated SaudiFood Manufacturing event, taking place at Riyadh Front from April 30-May 2, under the patronage of Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar bin Ibrahim Al-Khorayef.

Underpinning the fast-growing F&B market in Saudi Arabia — currently worth around $60 billion and growing at four percent per year, the Saudi F&B manufacturing industry is on the cusp of a step change in its growth and importance within the nation’s economy.

Trixie LohMirmand, CEO of KAOUN International, said: “The launch of SaudiFood Manufacturing coincides with a pivotal moment in the F&B manufacturing industry, both in Saudi Arabia and globally. To achieve the ambitious goals of Vision 2030, the Saudi government is focusing on diversifying the nation’s industrial base, while enhancing the security and resilience of food systems, encouraging investments in F&B manufacturing to establish the Kingdom as a prominent global F&B hub. Concurrently, rapid technological advancements are revolutionizing the industry by enhancing efficiency, quality, and safety while reducing costs.

“The inaugural edition of SaudiFood Manufacturing will provide participants with valuable insights into these market dynamics, showcasing how leading global players are addressing them and how businesses can effectively leverage these trends.”

One of the key forces driving Saudi Arabia’s industrial transformation, and creating an attractive environment for inward investment and innovation, is the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones, known as MODON — the strategic partner for the launch edition.

Ali Alomeir, VP of business development at MODON, said: “After the success of the first edition of The Saudi Food Show last year, the first edition of the SaudiFood Manufacturing Show 2024 also comes with a strategic partnership with MODON, reflecting MODON’s pivotal role in achieving the goals of the National Strategy for Industry, and Saudi Vision 2030, to achieve food security and effectively contribute to diversifying the national economy.”

For professionals in F&B manufacturing, spanning processing, packaging, ingredients, supply chain solutions, and control and automation, the SaudiFood Manufacturing Show offers a strategic platform abundant with opportunities to discover tailored solutions for their businesses.

The SaudiFood Manufacturing exhibition will convene more than 400 global brands from 35 countries for the first time in the Kingdom, including industry powerhouses AMC, Anasia, Apical, Brenntag, Buhler Chemco FSL, CGS, Clextral, Cybernetik Technologies, IFFCO, Kanoo Machinery, Multivac, Novonesis, Senovia and many others.

“Saudi Arabia’s food market is a growing arena full of opportunities for innovation and fruitful collaboration. Al-Azzaz, now being Brenntag BSP Nutrition, is attending the inaugural SaudiFood Manufacturing exhibition in Riyadh with a deep commitment to developing solid relationships. Cementing our dedication to driving innovation and growth within Saudi Arabia’s food sector, we are pleased to announce our investment and upcoming launch of Brenntag’s new Innovation and Application Center, which will open in Riyadh in 2024. This center will serve as a lighthouse of innovation, highlighting Brenntag Specialties’ investment and unwavering belief in how important it is for us to be close to our customers,” said Brenntag Nutrition-EMEA President Frank Haven.

Under the theme “Building the Food Manufacturing Ecosystem of the Future,” more than 50 international experts, thought-leaders, and policymakers are already confirmed to speak at the first Food Forward Summit — many of them for the first time in Saudi Arabia. 

These include: Dr. Flavia Fayet-Moore, space nutritionist and CEO of FOODiQ; Ross Dawson, global leading futurist, entrepreneur and bestselling author; Bugge Holm Hansen, senior futurist and head of innovation and technology, Copenhagen Institute for Futures Studies; George Peppou, founder and CEO of Vow; Richard Dillon, CEO of Ivy Farms Technologies; Luke Tay, founder of Cornucopia FutureScapes; Dr. Ahmed El-Sohemy, professor, University of Toronto and founder and chief science officer, Nutrigenomix Inc.; and many more.


ROX Motor expands into Saudi Arabia with LEAP 2025 debut

Updated 11 February 2025
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ROX Motor expands into Saudi Arabia with LEAP 2025 debut

ROX Motor, a Chinese luxury new energy vehicle brand, officially entered the Saudi market with the debut of its luxury all-terrain SUV, ROX 01, at the LEAP 2025 exhibition. The company has already secured multiple orders, with sales now underway. In addition, ROX Motor, in partnership with the Laith Al-Obaidi Group, officially opened its first Saudi showroom in Riyadh, providing local customers with a more comprehensive and convenient car-buying experience. The brand’s flagship Saudi showroom on Khurais Road is set to open later this month.

Aligned with the global transition toward sustainable mobility, Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiatives present a unique market opportunity for ROX Motor to play a leading role in the country’s automotive future.

Jarvis Yan, co-founder and CEO of ROX Motor, said: “Our participation in LEAP marks just the beginning of our long-term commitment to the Saudi market. We’ve tailored our strategy to align with the country’s cultural landscape, consumer preferences, and regulatory framework, ensuring that our products and services are fully aligned with the local market’s demands. Looking ahead, we are excited to announce that we will be launching a new global model in the second half of this year, with plans to introduce one new model annually as part of our steady expansion strategy.”

This commitment is reflected in ROX 01, which integrates extended-range technology, offering zero emissions in electric mode and superior fuel efficiency in extended-range mode — perfectly aligning with Saudi Arabia’s sustainability goals. Its all-terrain capabilities enable seamless navigation across Saudi Arabia’s diverse landscapes, ranging from expansive deserts to rugged mountains, while its intelligent driving systems also provide an exceptional experience for urban and daily driving.

Further enhancing its dedication to Saudi customers, ROX Motor has integrated market-specific innovations, including Arabic voice interaction controls and climate-specific adaptations such as a high-capacity air-conditioning system, an electric drivetrain cooling system, and UV-blocking electric sunshades. 

Additionally, ROX Motor has signed MoUs with Stellar Gate Games, a joint venture between NetEase Games and Sandsoft, and COFE, a leading digital coffee platform, to jointly promote the development of ROX 01’s intelligent in-car cabin and outdoor lifestyles in Saudi Arabia, further demonstrating the brand’s focus on providing regionally customized solutions for customers across all markets.

Since its global expansion began in 2024, ROX Motor has exceeded 10,000 orders for the ROX 01 and established sales and service networks in over 20 countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kazakhstan, and the UAE, where the ROX 01 now ranks third in the luxury SUV segment, trailing only the Land Rover Defender and Range Rover. With a solid foundation and strategic vision, ROX Motor is poised for continued growth, delivering innovative, luxury, and adventure-ready solutions to customers in Saudi Arabia and beyond.


Ericsson showcases 5G robotic dog ‘Rocky’ at LEAP 2025

Updated 10 February 2025
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Ericsson showcases 5G robotic dog ‘Rocky’ at LEAP 2025

Ericsson is featuring its 5G-powered robotic dog, Rocky, as part of its technology demonstrations at LEAP 2025. The showcase highlights how robotics, combined with 5G, is enabling advancements in industrial automation and operational efficiency.

Rocky is equipped with advanced sensors, cameras, and private 5G connectivity, enabling tasks such as factory inspections, remote monitoring, and safety assessments. The integration of real-time data transmission and artificial intelligence enhances operational accuracy in challenging environments.

By leveraging the Ericsson Private 5G network, Rocky can also assist authorities with efficient emergency response and quality inspections of factories, airports, and other critical infrastructure. Ericsson Private 5G sets a new standard for network performance, enabling secure, reliable, high-speed 4G and 5G connectivity, powered by its robust dual-mode core and industry-leading radio portfolio. Ante Mihovilovic, vice president and head of networks at Ericsson Middle East and Africa, said: “Rocky demonstrates how private 5G networks can support advanced robotics to optimize industrial processes. By leveraging the high-speed, low-latency, and secure connectivity of Ericsson Private 5G, industries can adopt innovative solutions that enhance operational efficiency, improve safety, and enable real-time decision-making. Our participation at LEAP 2025 underscores Ericsson’s commitment to providing technology that meets the evolving demands of industrial automation and digital transformation.”

Ericsson’s presence at LEAP 2025 highlights its innovation leadership and commitment to Saudi Vision 2030. Under the theme “Step Forward: Discover the Unfolding Future,” Ericsson is showcasing advanced solutions, live demonstrations, and insights into the future of connectivity. 

With more than four decades of partnership in Saudi Arabia, Ericsson continues to collaborate with communication service providers, enterprises, and government entities to localize advanced technologies, nurture local talent, and support the Kingdom’s position in the global technology landscape.

Now in its fourth year, LEAP 2025 is bringing together more than 600 startups, 1,000 speakers, and over 1,800 exhibitors from around the world to explore the future of global digital advancement and innovation under the theme “Into New Worlds.”


Lucid Gravity SUV hits the market in Saudi Arabia

Updated 10 February 2025
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Lucid Gravity SUV hits the market in Saudi Arabia

Lucid Group, Inc., a maker of advanced electric vehicles, announced that the Lucid Gravity Grand Touring is now available to order in Saudi Arabia at Lucid locations and online via the Lucid Saudi Arabia website.

The Grand Touring delivers an exceptional combination of sophistication, versatility, interior space, and range, making it the perfect choice for discerning customers across the Kingdom, who can now select vehicle configurations.

“The Lucid Gravity is the world’s most advanced SUV and we are delighted to bring it to the Kingdom,” said Faisal Sultan, vice president and managing director Middle East at Lucid. “It provides a sophisticated space for up to seven adults, game-changing versatility, and an unparalleled driving experience. Best of all, it is available for order in Saudi Arabia via the company studios and website right now.”

Lucid Gravity is a groundbreaking new class of SUV, conceived from the ground up without compromise. Enabled by Lucid’s revolutionary technology, Lucid Gravity provides the interior space and practicality of a full-size SUV within the exterior footprint of a mid-size SUV.

The full Lucid Gravity product line includes Lucid Gravity Grand Touring, starting at SR487,715 ($130,000), equipped with dual electric motors delivering 828 horsepower and more than 700 km of projected range on a single charge.

Lucid Gravity Grand Touring can be configured in two exterior colors, including the launch color Aurora Green Metallic, and with a variety of wheel designs and sizes ranging from 22 and 23 inches. The standard Stealth Appearance features dark polished and painted finishes on exterior surfaces and trim. For those who prefer brighter trim, the optional Platinum Appearance applies a silver luster to exterior accents and trim.

The Lucid Gravity is offered with five interior themes, each incorporating sustainable and premium materials to evoke a different part of the world-renowned state of California’s iconic landscape. The Mojave theme, available in standard PurLuxe and premium PurLuxe versions, evokes the Mojave Desert with bio-PVC upholstery and black ash or walnut wood trim. 

The Yosemite PurLuxe Premium captures the spirit of Yosemite National Park with light, earth-toned upholstery and black and walnut wood accents.

The Tahoe and Ojai themes, both featuring Nappa leather and premium natural grain leather on heated and ventilated 18-way power front seats with massage, draw inspiration from Lake Tahoe and the Ojai Valley, respectively. All themes emphasize luxurious comfort and environmental consciousness.

The Lucid Gravity comes standard with two rows of seats for up to five occupants. An optional three-row version seats up to seven adults with ample space still available for cargo.


LG Electronics, Shaker Group mark 30 years of sustainable HVAC innovation

Updated 10 February 2025
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LG Electronics, Shaker Group mark 30 years of sustainable HVAC innovation

LG Electronics Saudi Arabia and Al-Hassan Ghazi Ibrahim Shaker Co., an importer, manufacturer and distributor of air conditioners and home appliances in the Kingdom, are celebrating their 30-year partnership, a journey marked by innovation and excellence in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning industry.

This long-term alliance will continue to promote LG’s innovative HVAC solutions, and reinforce LG and Shaker’s position as a leading HVAC solution provider in the Kingdom. These advanced solutions include residential and commercial air conditioning and chiller systems. All are designed to emphasize “Made in Saudi,” sustainability, energy efficiency, and alignment with Saudi Vision 2030’s development goals.

The HVAC sector has undergone profound change in recent times, with artificial intelligence and Internet of Things boosting innovation in the field. Today, customers expect solutions to be more sustainable, efficient, and optimized for operations than ever before. 

LG and Shaker Group have been at the forefront of this evolution with advanced products like the LG Multi V I, which is expected to launch in the Kingdom later this year. LG Multi V I uses integrated AI algorithms to analyze real-time data and thereby optimize energy usage. This enables the product to be flexible enough to adjust cooling during peak hours as well as monitor room occupancy to ensure temperature levels are ideally set with minimal manual input. This makes it the premier option for consultants in charge of complex projects.

Pilwon Jung, MEA regional representative of LG Electronics, said: “Over the past three decades, LG has collaborated with Shaker to deliver the most advanced HVAC solutions to meet the evolving needs of our customers. Our commitment to driving growth, enhancing customer satisfaction, and contributing to the Kingdom’s sustainability goals remains stronger than ever.”

The partnership was launched in 2008 with the establishment of a joint venture factory in Riyadh that initially produced up to 750,000 units annually. This was a critical step in localizing production while addressing the Kingdom’s pressing need for HVAC solutions.

In recognition of the remarkable milestones achieved, LG and Shaker Group will be honoring key stakeholders who have played significant roles in realizing the partnership’s objectives. This move underscores their shared commitment to fostering a culture of excellence and acknowledging the invaluable contributions of their partners.

Mohammed Ibrahim Abunayyan, CEO of Shaker, said: “Our 30-year collaboration with LG Electronics Saudi Arabia is a testament to our shared commitment to innovation and contributing to the Kingdom’s prosperity. This enduring partnership reflects our joint dedication to delivering leading, cutting-edge, energy-efficient HVAC solutions that align with Saudi Arabia’s strategic vision while meeting the evolving needs of our valued consumers. Together, we continue to drive excellence, shaping a future of progress and sustainable development.”

As they celebrate this milestone, LG and Shaker Group reaffirm their commitment to promoting sustainable and energy-efficient HVAC solutions that align with Saudi Vision 2030 and contribute to a diversified economy.


Rotana TV appoints SPEX as exclusive advertising partner

Updated 10 February 2025
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Rotana TV appoints SPEX as exclusive advertising partner

Rotana TV has signed a strategic agreement with SPEX, one of Extend’s companies, officially appointing them as the exclusive advertising agency responsible for managing and selling advertising across Rotana TV channels. Under this partnership, SPEX will also oversee all digital advertising initiatives, ensuring a seamless and innovative approach to media monetization.

This collaboration marks a significant milestone in Rotana TV’s ongoing efforts to optimize its advertising strategy and maximize revenue potential across both television and digital platforms. By leveraging SPEX’s expertise in media sales and digital advertising solutions, Rotana TV aims to strengthen its market position and enhance the effectiveness of its advertising offerings.

“Rotana TV has always been at the forefront of media and entertainment in the region, and our partnership with SPEX is a testament to our commitment to excellence. With their expertise in advertising sales and digital media, we are confident that this collaboration will create new opportunities for advertisers and elevate the commercial potential of our platforms,” said Princess Lamia bint Majid Al-Saud, CEO of Rotana Media Group 

Sami Al-Rasheed, chairman of the board at SPEX, said: “This agreement marks a significant step in the advancement of the television and digital advertising landscape. Through our strategic approach and data-driven methodology, we aim to enhance advertisers’ experience and deliver highly efficient and impactful advertising solutions within a vast and influential network like Rotana.”