A.Ronai's stand at the Chef & Ingredients Forum 2014. A.Ronai's stand at the Chef & Ingredients Forum 2014.

Both the Bar & Nightlife Forum and Chef & Ingredients Forum will be supported by A. Ronai LLC in 2015.

Managing director Gavin Dodd said: “As an ambassador of Caterer Middle East events, Ronai are extremely happy to support the forums again this year. We very much believe in supporting the hospitality industry and with events as professional as this it’s a great way of achieving our aim. It’s important for all related companies to stay ahead of the game, building and retaining crucial relationships with hospitality industry professionals.”

As an experienced and well-known supplier in the regional industry, Dodd also commented on the challenges facing both bar and nightclub operators, as well as chefs. He said: “With such a huge variety of bars and late night venues across the UAE, increased competition is sure to be a challenge for the owners/operators. Ensuring that you have the right combination in terms of atmosphere, location and well trained staff will be a test for all those involved but one where they are currently succeeding.”

Story continues below
Advertisement

He further said that increased competition only means better things for the consumer, with a number of venues to visit throughout the year.

Continuing to talk about chefs, he added: “It must prove challenging for all restauranteurs to continue providing quality produce at competitive prices. With the general cost of raw ingredients increasing, chefs will need to get creative with their menus in order to retain a loyal clientele.” Different cuisines and Emirati-inspired restaurants are some of the new and exciting trends in the culinary market, in Dodd’s opinion.

In light of all these changes in both the nightlife and culinary sectors, Dodd predicted the topics and key concerns. For bar and nightclub operators, Dodd said a concern was how to stay fresh and current in the market and attract the necessary footfall. “Operators will need to be creative with their promotions and marketing strategies in order to ensure they are encouraging a crowd,” he said.

He concluded: “In line with the challenges faced by the culinary industry, I would expect a discussion on sustainability and how restaurants can incorporate organically grown produce into an increasingly competitively priced market.”

Read more about A. Ronai's latest plans in the region; article continues on next page...

For speaking opportunities, please contact louby.maktari@itp.com. For sponsorship opportunities, contact clayton.rodrigues@itp.com or amanda.stewart@itp.com