With Manchester’s economy projected to be the third fastest-growing in the UK from 2024 to 2026 and the local economy expected to increase by £2 billion compared to 2022, the North West region offers excellent prospects for business expansion.
This promising landscape also extends to the profitable opportunities within the halal industry, where entrepreneurs can capitalise on its potential for growth and success.
The Halal Expo Manchester delves into various aspects of the halal industry in the UK, encompassing food, clothing, art, financial instruments, housing, travel, beauty, and more. The event was inaugurated at the Old Trafford Museum on June 13, 2023, with the esteemed presence of Manchester’s Lord Mayor, Yasmine Dar, alongside members of the media, business community, and other professionals.
According to Dar, the Halal Expo Manchester will captivate the halal industry with leading businesses showcasing the latest halal products and services, giving opportunities for both halal businesses and mainstream brands to showcase their
commitment to diversify and be more inclusive.
“Manchester has a proud history. You can see an image of a bee all over the city, symbolising the city’s history of hard work as the country’s first industrial city. Our 19th-century textile mills were known as ‘hives’ of activity, with their workers compared to bees,” shared Dar.
She said Manchester was still home to a vibrant community of hard-working individuals. Still, she acknowledged that it had undergone significant transformations over the years, making it an excellent choice for hosting an exhibition.
She emphasised that the city’s strength resided in its diversity, multiculturalism, ethnic variety, tolerance and understanding towards different cultures and backgrounds.
“Manchester is a city that has been transformed comprehensively and dynamically, and we believe it is the strongest performing regional centre in the UK.”
A GREAT OPPORTUNITY
The Assistant Secretary General of the Muslim Council of Britain (MCB), Maswood Ahmed, shared that the global halal economy exceeded US$2 trillion and was expected to surpass US$3 trillion in the next few years. He said the Council published a report titled ‘The Muslim Pound’ some 10 years ago, and the information there is still relevant today as it was a decade ago.
“We need to realise that politicians, businesses and communities need to work together to meet the needs of the people and do good. When considering expanding their business and maximising reach, most entrepreneurs often face sleepless nights taking the first steps.
“But remember that as long as you are sincere in serving people and grateful to those who work with you, you can progress.
“Allah has said: ‘If you are grateful, I will give you more’. Events like the Halal Expo Manchester offer a great opportunity to capitalise and grow your business, as long as you are sincere.”
DIVERSITY AND INCLUSIVITY
Aatif Majid, Founder & CEO of Halal Expo London and Manchester, said: “Following the huge success of ‘Halal Expo London’, the event now comes to Manchester in a highly-anticipated two-day exhibition curated for both businesses and consumers.”
“Halal Expo Manchester is not only for Muslim or halal businesses, but is also an opportunity for mainstream brands to showcase their commitment to diversity and inclusivity.”
Andleeb Hanif, Asian Express Managing Editor, was thrilled to be working in partnership with Aatif Majid. She believes the Halal Expo Manchester is a fantastic opportunity for both halal businesses and non-halal businesses to work in unison to deliver goods and services to those of all faiths and backgrounds.
Halal Expo Manchester is endorsed by the Department for Business & Trade and will be held over two days, on Jul 14-15, 2023, at The Old Trafford Stadium.
The event will feature diverse exhibitors, including well-established Muslim and non-Muslim-led businesses, prominent dignitaries, and renowned household name brands.
The expo will offer extensive seminars and workshops featuring globally recognised speakers and ambassadors. These sessions will provide valuable networking opportunities for business professionals and consumers.
