Tony Moubarak, CEO & MD of MBKfoods
Why is it important that you support the Caterer Middle East: Food & Business Conference?
We believe that Caterer & Hotelier Middle East magazines are the leaders in their sector in the region and target the right audience either in print or digital media. Along with Hotelier Middle East, the two publications are the go-to source on the hospitality sector in the region. As a member in this sector, it was a straightforward decision to collaborate with Caterer Middle East and support an important conference like the Food & Business Conference in order to help the growth of this sector in the country.
What do you think are the main challenges facing UAE Food & Beverages Professionals in 2016?
The market in the UAE has witnessed a serious drop in the hospitality business in 2015 due to the current regional and global events. The tourism market is facing a very challenging period which directly affects the F&B sector. The UAE and particularly Dubai, maintain their leadership roles in the region’s hospitality and leisure offers. Nevertheless, room for growth exists by heavily targeting middle class and budget travellers despite the intense competition that exists between services providers in the industry. There will always remain room for those who are offering quality products and services with competitive budgets.
What most excites you about the UAE F&B industry in 2016?
The UAE is the most challenging and stirring place to be in the coming years. We will witness the opening of numerous mega projects related to leisure and tourism. Many new outlets and malls will be developed across the country and this will strengthen and secure the UAE’s leadership position in the GCC. Dubai is a world class destination and will continue to lead the sector for the coming years.However, the market will be saturated with traditional offers and business models in the Horeca sector. Innovation, high quality services, creativity and good management will be key to succeeding in this challenging industry in the future.
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What are the latest product launches from your company?
At Mbkfoods, our approach consists of proposing 360 food solutions for professionals supporting them and enhancing them in their daily operations. We have more than 2000 references of raw and processed high quality products offering one of the widest range of F&B solutions in the market. Eight months ago, we launched Davigel Brand in the UAE and we are doing great. Davigel is a 50 years old French company, the leader in France in processed and ready-made solution for the Horeca sector. It was owned by Nestle Group during 27 years and joined recently Brakes Group to become the leader in Europe in its sector. This move has allowed us to brace our position in the market and propose a larger range of products. Every month, our team of 15 professional chefs are proposing over 50 new products to cover the need of our multinational customers. Mbkfoods in UAE is expected to benefit from a large part of these products and will continue its growth in 2016.
What other news can we expect from your company in 2016/2017?
In 2016 Mbkfoods will more dynamic and active in terms of marketing and events. We are preparing to organize our first Chef’s Days in April with three full days of sample tastings, live food preparation and information sharing sessions on skills, knowhow and experiences which will enhance the UAE food market. Mbkfoods will also be partnering in many F&B events as we continue to grow along with the F&B industry in the UAE.
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