The 2009 Mars ITR Middle East Duty Free Retailer of The Year award has gone to Qatar Duty Free after recording the highest percentage travel retail sales growth of the company's products in the Middle

East region.

MITR's General Manager, Jack Tabbers presented the award to Qatar Duty Free's Senior Vice President, Bill Maxwell at a special ceremony held in Doha International Airport to mark the outstanding business performance of the retailer.

Stuart Bull, Global ITR Consultant to Mars Inc said: ‘Qatar Duty Free is a fantastic partner. Their business has grown consistently over the last five years and we really appreciate their support in selling Mars products. Despite 2009 being a difficult year we are still showing huge gains.’

Bill Maxwell commented: ‘We are delighted to have won this prestigious award against stiff competition in this very competitive region. Our confectionery sales have been exceptionally strong this year due to excellent stock control, effective merchandising and aggressive promotions.

‘The support from Stuart and his team at MITR is second to none and is a major contribution to our success in this category.’