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Richard Franks

Richard Franks

Managing Director MENA — commercial growth and artificial-foliage specialist

RichardFranks
United Arab Emirates
Joined April 2026
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Conex Group

Summary

Regional commercial leader in building products and HVACR: Franks has held senior business development and director roles with Conex Bänninger covering the Gulf, where he promoted flame-free press fittings and industrial valves, engaged with distributors and supported major UAE infrastructure projects. gdnonline+1
Managing Director and product advocate in artificial foliage: As Managing Director at TreeLocate Foliages (Foliages), he led bespoke artificial-plant manufacturing and project delivery for hospitality and commercial clients and publicly advocated for high-quality, fire-retardant artificial plants as sustainable, low-maintenance design solutions. lovethatdesign+1
Public-facing industry commentator and writer: Franks authors opinion and insight pieces on topics including the rise of artificial plants, fire safety in interiors, and skills/training in HVAC, positioning him as a thought leader bridging product supply, safety and design practice. lovethatdesign+2
Trade-show and specification experience across the GCC: He has represented manufacturers and suppliers at major regional industry events (for example The Big 5), using these platforms to introduce product ranges and build relationships with contractors, distributors and clients. gdnonline+1

Work

Projects

Writing

Closing the skills gap in the HVAC industry

April 1, 2026

Article discussing the skills gap across the construction and HVAC supply chain in the Middle East, advocating for training, manufacturer-led on-site education and adoption of new technologies (e.g., press fittings) to improve safety and efficiency.

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The Evergreen Era: Five Reasons Why Interior Designers Are Switching To Artificial Plants

January 1, 2024

Opinion piece outlining benefits of artificial plants — maintenance, timelessness, creative flexibility, sustainability and fire-safety — and promoting high-quality, fire-retardant artificial foliage solutions for commercial design.

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Exclusive: Why fire safety is hot right now

July 1, 2023

Industry insight piece addressing fire safety considerations for artificial plants and fit-out materials, and the importance of fire-retardant products and standards in interiors.

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Energy innovations / HVACR selection (Technical Review Middle East contribution)

January 1, 2022

Contribution on intelligent selection of HVACR systems to optimise energy consumption and performance in building projects (included in TRME issue).

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