Scottish success at World Expo

Around 12 companies across Scotland are providing services worth more than £8 million to the World Expo 2020, which opens today in Dubai.

The work ranges from branding the six month international showcase to supporting digital engagement from participants around the globe.

The Scottish Government and its partners will be staging themed days and hosting a series of receptions during the Expo to promote Scottish businesses, create new international connections and engage with potential investors.

Business Minister Ivan McKee said:

“World expos are a huge opportunity for countries to showcase and shine on the global stage. Our ambition is to promote Scotland’s expertise and innovation and present it as an attractive place to do business, trade and to invest in.

“This is the first time Scotland has substantially participated at any world expo and already businesses across the country are benefiting and playing an integral part in designing and delivering this exciting global project. I look forward to seeing many more businesses display their expertise, forge international connections and secure valuable contracts over the coming months.”

Glasgow design studio Tangent has produced the Expo’s brand identity, worked on the external look of 120 themed pavilions and publicised the event in cities across the United Arab Emirates in a contract so far worth £450,000.

Director and co-founder of Tangent David Whyte said:

“We are delighted that a Scottish studio has been chosen to play a part in such a globally significant event. It is a feather in the cap for both ourselves and the wider sector.

“Tangent has worked on international events before but the Expo presented us with several firsts and provides a springboard for the future.”

Scottish Enterprise Chief Executive Officer Adrian Gillespie said:

“Innovation is crucial to delivering a green economic recovery that has internationalisation at its heart.

“The World Expo 2020 will offer Scotland an incredible platform to showcase our world-class innovations, products and services and highlight why so many forward-thinking companies choose our country for international growth. Scotland is very much open for business and we look forward to sharing that message at the Expo.”

Background

World Expo 2020 Dubai runs from 1 October 2021 to 31 March 2022 and around 190 nations are participating.  

The Scotland at Expo programme focuses on its trade and investment priorities in five themed days around Space, Digital Health and Wellness and the Race to Net Zero, plus receptions focused on St Andrew’s Day, Scotland’s food and drink and the Race to Net Zero.

Further information on the business programme can be found at Scottish Development International and Scotland.org.