Stephane Demare joined the FBC on January 2004.

FBC : Stephane, I noticed you are attending our events from the get together to the seminaries quite regularly, Can you tell me what benefit you get from your FBC’s membership ?
SD: There are many benefits: increase our network of contacts, learn about other sectors which is always open-minding, get support from the FBC to develop our business, find new business opportunities and also have fun with the other members at the Get Together.

FBC : Stephane, I am bit intrigued by the name of your company. Where is it coming from?
SD: When we created the company in April 2004, we had the dream to help people to grow their own businesses and themselves. So the Big Tree is the symbol of protection. We also believe that if we share our dream with people, we will all bear the fruits of our growth: That’s the second symbol of the tree.

FBC : So what do you do exactly at Big Tree Concepts?
SD: We actually assist foreign companies in developing their business in the GCC. We have in 3 different divisions: French real estate, Construction and Energy Saving.

FBC : French Real Estate? That is quite unusual these days while the world seems to be focusing on Dubai no?
SD: Actually you would be surprised at the number of people who are looking at investing in France. Many investors are looking for safeness and steady growth. If we look at the European expatriates in the GCC, they are much more willing to invest in France or Europe then in Dubai.
While Dubai has certainly a lot to offer, it is also an almost new-born market, with few regulations and some uncertainty, all the contrary of the French market.

FBC : So which properties do you offer?
SD: We are experts in Residential Properties with a Guaranteed Rental Income, also known as French Leaseback Program.
It is a way to invest in French properties with a guarantee from the developer that the property will be let for 9 years. During this period, you know exactly your rental income as it is guaranteed. It helps you to take control of the cash flow of your property and ensure that the rent covers the mortgage repayments. Additionally, the French government offers you the gift of not paying the VAT.

FBC : Where are these properties located?
SD: All over France, always in a well known area, such as Paris, the Alps, Cote D’Azur, Normandy, Brittany and all the big cities. It is mainly tourism residences, businessmen hotels and student residences.

FBC : And anyone can buy?
SD: Absolutely. There is no restriction in terms of nationality. Actually the first investors are the English and surprisingly the French comes in second position.

FBC : What about your other activities?
SD: We have two other divisions. The Energy Saving division primarily focuses on a motor optimiser that reduces by up to 40% the electric consumption of the motors. It is working extremely well as the UAE are pushing for more attention and control of energy expenditures.
The second division is in the Construction sector: we represent four French companies, all leaders in their fields: concrete batching plants (Skako), machines for blocks and pavers (Quadra), precast prestressed elements (OTEP) and steel concrete reinforcement (Babich).

FBC  : Stephane you know the FBC counts on its members commitment in order to better respond to their expectations. Would you involve yourself in one of our committee for example ?
SD: We are participating to the Ariane committee, which helps us as a young small structure. I know indeed that your publication committee is much involve in the realisation of the quarterly magazine which can also explain its success.

FBC : Thank you Stephane and we wish you a continuing success in the region.