Product Test: Rotana Centro Sharjah, Cafe Richard

What did you like most about this product?

The display of the product and the packaging are very modern and dare I say “millennial”, featuring cool bold coloured tins and packaging, with elaborate and rich patterns. I felt it very inviting and tempting, and the tea itself was superb.

Would this product improve guest experience?

Yes I think this product would improve guest experience, largely because using this brand of tea results in expectations being raised. Once we tasted the tea it did not disappoint us. I would describe the product as being subtle, warm, silky and smooth.

Could this product impact guest loyalty?

As it is a new product, once guests taste it and experience the delicious tea I am sure guests will come back to recreate the experience and to enjoy it with friends, especially as only a few hotels have it or will have it; there will be an impact on loyalty.

Would this be suitable for large events?

To be honest, I think it would be a more successful as a product used to cater smaller events, such as events in villas and private family gatherings, as opposed to being the product of choice for larger corporate events in hotels like ours.

Did you like the presentation of this product?

Everyone here at Rotana Centro Sharjah agreed that the presentation of this product was very good. Personally, I believe it is very appealing and inviting, especially the colours, they draw in the eye and makes you curious to try the tea. I think our guests will have a similar experience when they see this particular product.

Would you supply your hotel with this product?

Initially I would have said no, because the tea has the appearance of a high-end luxury item, which is not usually found in three-star hotels like ours. But, when I learned of the cost price I changed my mind and I thought that it is very affordable and very competitive with our standard tea product. So the answer is yes, I would supply this hotel with Café Richard tea.

Do you recomend this product to other hoteliers?

Yes i would, because I believe that three-star hotels can and should be associated with exclusive and elegant products. As long as the price point is within our range and the tea can be served in a three-star hotel “no fuss style”. The perception of mid-market hospitality is changing, and it is true that we can delight our guests just like any other star-rated property can, we are not limited in our options.

Is this product priced appropriately for the mid-market?

Yes, Café Richard is priced appropriately for this sector. Just because we are operating in the three-star hospitality sector, it doesn’t mean that we therefore need to serve products and work at a “standard” level. Café Richard has created a good product that fits our price requirements and I think will please the guests in the Middle East mid-market sector.

Final comments?

I was most delighted to try this new brand and I’m glad I did – was not disappointed by Café Richard. The tea itself is of superb quality and it is a refreshing taste. As a company, Café Richard has a large variety of teas to choose from, suitable for any moment of the day, as well as cold teas. The product fits with our brand identity and will be a good addition to our F&B options.