Trials and tribulations of the Lebanese arak market
Arak is rapidly becoming the preferred spirit in bars in Lebanon and abroad. Salim Heleiwa, general manager of The Malt Gallery, explains why this popular drink is facing numerous challenges and what needs to be done to support its growth.
Emerging trends in the Middle East beer market
Shambhu Nath Jha, associate vice president of Fact.MR, helps companies envision the future and understand the evolving business landscape. In this article, he explores the beer market in the Middle East and the trends that are shaping its future.
Green waves: plant-based seafood on the rise
The plant-based seafood market is experiencing significant growth, driven by various factors, such as the rising popularity of veganism, environmental concerns, health considerations and animal welfare issues. With almost a decade of experience in the new food business, Vera Oswald of Vegconomist tells us more.
Levantine cuisine fab or fad by Michelin Starred chef Greg Malouf
Michelin-starred chef Greg Malouf, recognized as the master of modern Middle Eastern food and co-author of several internationally acclaimed cookbooks, tackles the question of how Levantine cooking has pushed the boundaries to become an iconic cuisine.
Pulse check Egypt
As the Ukraine war is dragging on into another year, so are the economic troubles of Egypt, highly dependent on imports of wheat and all types of non-food commodities. The Egyptian treasury market was also badly hit, as investors withdrew billions of dollars. The Central Bank could not prevent inflation from reaching an annual surge of 33.9 percent in March, with the Egyptian pound plunging to unprecedented levels. Nada Alameddine, managing partner at Hodema Consulting Services, explains the country’s current state and forecasts its future.
Jordan’s soaring tourism sector
Jordan has become a popular travel destination in the Middle East. It was ranked the sixth Arab country in the 2022 Travel and Tourism Development Index and listed within the top 10 tourist destinations in 2023 by the US Tour Operator Association. Maria Quintero, HVS’ associate – consulting and valuation, provides insights into Jordan’s success and the factors that make it an appealing choice for travelers worldwide.
Uniting Forces between hotels and independent restaurants
With a two decades of revenue management expertise in the hospitality industry, award-winner Judith Cartwright, founder and managing director of Black Coral Consulting, provides food for thought for hoteliers looking to profit from foodie partnerships.
Cloud kitchen concept: success or flop?
According to Duncan Fraser-Smith, managing partner of Glee Hospitality, the emergence of cloud kitchens has caused a significant disruption in the traditional food industry landscape. Here, he explores how these delivery-only establishments have gained widespread popularity and addresses the crucial question of whether cloud kitchens are destined to succeed.
Eating in the metaverse: fact or fiction?
Unquestionably, the metaverse is a revolution with enormous potential. It has given way to emerging new economic segments and new income-generating opportunities. In today’s fast-paced virtual and digitized world, there are no longer limitations. Maya Bekhazi Noun, founder and managing director of The Food Studio, tells us more.
How to work with Influencers
In today’s landscape, one of the most effective ways to elevate your brand and reach your audience is by working with influencers. Influencers have become key opinion leaders, with the power to influence their followers through the content they share, including their favorite restaurants, products and experiences. For the hospitality sector, tapping into this influential network can be a game-changer, offering unique opportunities to connect with potential customers and increase brand visibility, according to Zena Hamdan, founder and CEO of Against All Odds. Here, she tells us more.