THE ART/SCIENCE OF THE COCKTAIL
Naji Ab bou di sam ixologi st and managing partner of Liquid Engineers s.a.l, a company that has grown to become synonymous with the provision of fully-catered bart ending services to individuals and establishments in Lebanon and the region. He talks to HN about the driving forces behind his success.
When did you launch your operations and where do you think you’ve arrived at today?
We first opened for business in 2009, when the bar catering industry was still in its infancy. Back then, we catered using rented bars, which resembled tables that had no identifiable characteristics or any distinguishable identity/design. Nine years later, we take great pride in our ability to offer a truly diverse range of bar services that constitute our ever-evolving line of hardware and catering alternatives. In keeping our finger on the pulse, we were able to anticipate market trends and have since been continuously innovating. As a result, we now have a diverse range of alternatives that can easily suit any kind of demand, irrespective of size. We have plenty of customizable bar options sporting various shapes, colors, textures and themes. Additionally, we have our own ‘Barcycle’, which is a modified tricycle used as a mobile station. Furthermore, we refurbished a caravan, which is now aptly known as ‘Baravan’ that has a vintage/classic look and can be employed to service different venues and spaces. Yet of all these, the most instrumental element that brings it all together is our dedicated and highly-experienced 12- crew staff, who provide a top-notch service mixing succulent cocktails and entertaining guests wholeheartedly!
What are the challenges in maintaining your clients and acquiring new ones in a market marked by price wars and underthe-table dealings?
Over the years, we’ve faced and overcome plenty of diverse challenges due to our commitment to a perfect service, premium quality brands and a transparent pricing strategy. However, I have to emphasize that it’s our loyal customers who keep us going and growing. Consequently, preferential rates are offered to our repeat clients who have stuck with us through thick and thin. We are also proud of the various referrals by a select list of business partners, such as catering houses and event planners, to whom we extend the best price in terms of quality to service ratio.
Tell us about some of the novelties specific to the local market and strategies your company employs to remain ahead of the curve…
Innovation is key to success! The Lebanese marketplace is quite complex and demanding, as evidenced by the state-of-the-art technological services offered at weddings and events. As such, and to maintain relevance, we continuously adopt and adapt novel innovations, ranging from new cocktail trends and bar designs on a par with local and i nt er nati onal markets.