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.
The evolution of travel
Travel has transformed into a whole new adventure, offering exciting options and connections beyond traditional hotels. With over 13 years of experience in hospitality, guest experience, innovation and operations, Imad Moussa, support ops innovation leader at Airbnb, explores the changing landscape of travel, where unconventional choices, personal connections and authentic experiences are redefining travelers’ journeys.
Cider on the rise
Cider has evolved from its humble beginnings to become one of the fastest-growing markets in the drinks industry. While the road is still long, the possibility of cider firmly establishing itself in the Middle East is undeniable, as Soha Frem, founder of WATA cider, points out.
Food delivery’s sustainable future
The F&B industry and food delivery services find themselves engaged in a tug of war, with businesses striving to increase profits while simultaneously considering the shift toward sustainability, which inevitably brings about operational changes. Tech disruptor and global entrepreneur Mohamed Al Fayed, CEO and co-founder of Grubtech, tackles the challenges faced by the industry to establish a delicate balance between financial growth and environmental consciousness.
A positive outlook for Lebanon in 2023
Despite multiple crises in Lebanon since 2019, the private sector has demonstrated remarkable resilience, indicating a potential recovery that could be further bolstered by positive political developments. This anticipated comeback holds the promise of renewed growth and prosperity. Chadi Chidiac, managing partner of Protocol Hospitality Management and Consultancy, 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.