GulfHost 2017 unlocks the secret ingredients to restaurant success

The Gulf’s hospitality industry is predicted to reach a market value of $36.7 billion by 2020, according to Euromonitor International.

This robust growth is driven by an increasing population and strong tourism industry, with international events such as Dubai World Expo 2020 expected to draw in 20 million visitors.

Flexible regulations and limited barriers to entry provide fertile ground for global and regional food and beverage outlets to enter the market, with 19,000 new outlets projected to open by 2019, according to financial advisory firm Alpen Capital. With fierce competition arising it has never been more important to stay ahead of the game.

To keep a competitive edge, restaurants are finding new ways to streamline back-of-house operational processes to ensure the best efficiencies. Costs for running a commercial kitchen are considerable, particularly when inefficient equipment is used. According to the Carbon Trust, energy used in catering accounts for between 4 percent and 6 percent of operating profits.

Saving energy can directly increase revenue and profitability without the need to increase sales.

The region’s changing demographic also presents a new challenge to the industry; the GCC is one of the most urbanized regions in the world, with over 75 percent of the population living in urban areas. This is transforming eating behaviors — customers value quick and efficient service, and casualdining and quick-service restaurants are increasing in popularity.

With global macroeconomic conditions subduing consumer spending, restaurants will gain a considerable advantage by catering to this time-poor customer through creative dining and café experiences, with a focus on ambience and décor.

The inaugural trade show GulfHost 2017, is indicative of the growing hospitality industry, providing a platform to discover the best solutions to stay ahead of competitors, from back of house and front of house to bar and counter.

Taking place on Sept. 18-20 and organized by Dubai World Trade Center, the dedicated hospitality equipment and food service expo for the Middle East brings together international industry suppliers to enable regional buyers to source the latest innovations, products, and services.