Sustainability remains in focus
It was clear at Gulfood from Caterer Middle East’s conversations with companies and industry experts that the sustainability is not a passing fad for F&B industry in the Middle East. Sean Moore, regional director, Winterhalter Middle East, said: “The sustainable agenda is more prominent in Europe, and is in its infancy in the region but is gaining prominence in the region.
“This year we have launched our UF series of utensil washers and our focus has always been on producing the wash results by offering longevity and efficiency. The focus now is on reducing water, energy and the chemical content in the washers — the focus is on sustainability. Our new range features an enzymatic method of operation, which means we are not throwing germs or chemicals down the drain into the environment. Our product is one of the lowest water consumers in the market.”
Sustainability was actively recognised at this year’s Gulfood, with German company Vito AG receiving an award for its innovation and sustainable technology. Its oil fitration system, Vito XS, beat off competition from 180 other entries to win a Best Sustainable Catering Equipment Innovation Award.
Andreas Schmidt, CEO, Vito AG, said: “It shows us how important the ‘made in Germany’ tag is for our brand. Along with a team of 50 associates the frying oil filters are produced and assembled in Germany itself. The award is an indication that we are doing the right things.”
The company has a distribution network in more than 150 countries and its clientele includes F&B operators like Burger King, Hilton Hotels and AIDA.
Intermetal was another company putting sustainability front and centre. Having been FSC-certified last year, the company debuted its sustainable range of products for the hospitality industry at Gulfood.
Intermetal marketing manager Cathy Di Savino said one of these products was the fully customisable Dining Pod, which provides privacy and personal space. She commented: “The dining pod was a concept that we thought was interesting because people today with technology are sitting privately in their own little hub.”
Speaking about the company's sustainable accreditation, she added: “People want to procure from responsible suppliers, so it was a step we had to take — and the response has been excellent.”
Gulfood returns to Dubai World Trade Centre next year, from February 26 to March 2, 2017. More details are available via www.gulfood.com
Article continues on next page...
| Advertisement |
Search our database of more than 2,700 industry companies
