BRAND BUILDERS

LEBANON

Republic ruled by President Emile Lahoud

Capital: Beirut

3.9 million inhabitants

-15% growth due to recent political events

50% under 25 years old

GDP: US$21.5 billion, real growth: -6.2%

GDP per capita: US$5,513

Weak economy, suffering from civil war and recent conflicts.

Economy of services. Solid real estate and tourism activities yet severely hampered by recent tensions.

Retail surface expected to almost double by 2010. Shift from street shopping to mall.