Positive outlook for region's F&B outlets

The new year is looking bright for F&B outlet business, according to Costa Coffee UAE general manager Eric Hughes

Although Hughes admitted consumers had cut back on eating out, he said global trends suggested “most consumers have retained their desire for quality”.

“With regard to Costa UAE, I can tell you that the market seemed to level out in April and May and we have traded consistently since then,” he said.

“More recently still, we have seen some improvement across a number of channels, such as our International Airport based stores and in Abu Dhabi.”

Hughes revealed that the international coffee brand had significant expansion plans for the Middle East, with “a strong focus on Abu Dhabi”.

“We have plans to open 10 stores throughout 2010 which we believe demonstrates our commitment to the region,” he said.