Khiara launches new copper range at Gulfood

Khiara Trading launched the Marrakech series of copper utensils at Gulfood 2016.

“This new range of products is burnt (oxidised) while being made, which gives it a scalded finish,” said Raj Khiara, director, Khiara Traders.

Khiara told Caterer Middle East the launch of the new series supplements the existing range of copper products and is a direct result of market demand. “F&B professionals prefer this series because it gives a heritage feel to the outlet,” he said.

“Copper utensils are steeped in history across the Arab region and India. However, a large section of European markets are gaining interest in copper products because this renders a different look and feel to their restaurants. So, the demand stems from two market segments: one where people have used copper products as part of their heritage and the other section that are looking for something new.”

The products are an alloy of copper mixed with stainless steel. “We have also added some elements of cast iron to give it a modern shape. Copper also has known health benefits, which is an added benefit, we feel,” he added.

Khiara also said that the company has introduced a new range of products for the oriental and Chinese restaurant segment. “Another product series we have introduced incorporates titanium and stainless steel. Titanium is rare in the cooking industry.”

Khiara has been in the country even before the formation of the United Arab Emirates. “We have been around for 60 years,and catered to the local Arab population by selling stainless steel products.”

Khiara said that the stainless steel products appealed to the Indians and Arabs, but the company has had to strategically diversify with the growth of the city and the different nationalities working and living here.

The company also offers food presentation ideas to restaurants, with an aim to further promote their presentation techniques on social media channels such as snapchat and Instagram.