6 experts on what’s brewing in the coffee industry
Behind every cup of coffee lies a world of craft, tradition and human connection. We caught up with six experts and judges from The World 100 Best Coffee Shops at CoffeeFest Madrid, and asked them to share their insights on the key issues shaping the industry today, from sourcing and science to storytelling. Here’s what they had to say.
Bar designs that drive revenue in nightlife venues
In the Middle East’s fast-evolving nightlife scene, counters and their surroundings have long added to the ambiance. However, when designed strategically, they can also do much more. Elie Bassil, co-founder of Studio Caramel and business strategist, explains how today’s venues are thinking beyond aesthetics and harnessing spatial design as a powerful commercial tool.
7 ways food processing delivers healthierfood products
At times viewed in a negative light, food processing is now emerging as a key industry tool, helping manufacturers to deliver healthier food products consistently, efficiently and profitably. Sam A. Jaoude, consultant and CEO of MadenLevant LLC, shares seven ways it is achieving this at pace.
Saudi Arabia and Coffee: where heritage meets global ambition
Dagmar Symes, CEO of Al Hamra, charts the kingdom’s coffee journey from traditional ritual to contemporary regional hub.
Nimish Goel of Dhruva on how the UAE’s fiscal framework impacts hospitality
In this article, Nimish Goel examines what the UAE’s maturing fiscal framework means for the hospitality sector.
4 steps to building a resilient franchise
As global markets become more complex and competitive, resilience has become the defining factor that sets robust franchise systems apart. Anthony Aucar, head of projects at Glee Hospitality Solutions, shares four core principles for businesses looking to implement a sustainable, scalable franchise model.
Immersive and interactive: 5 ways tech is shaking up hospitality
From gamified loyalty programs to VR previews and AI personalization, digital innovation is transforming traditional guest stays into engaging, personalized experiences. Dr. Jassim Haji is president of the International Group of Artificial Intelligence and executive advisor for AI and Data Science at H.H. Sheikh Nasser AI Research and Development Centre. Here, he spotlights the technologies powering winning strategies across hospitality.
Social commerce revolution drives direct bookings from Instagram and TikTok
Riky Bains, social media strategist, believes social platforms are no longer just inspiration channels. Rather, they are becoming fully integrated booking environments reshaping the hospitality journey. We explore this shift further.
AI voice ordering to transform drive-thrus
Ready to take your order, voice-activated artificial intelligence systems are poised to revolutionize drive-thru operations across the region’s rapidly expanding quick-service restaurant market. Duncan Fraser-Smith, CEO of Craft Hospitality Group, spotlights the huge opportunities and possible challenges that this transformational technology presents.
Middle East family businesses navigate growth and risk
Dr Rebecca Gooch, Deloitte Private Global Head of Insights, presents findings highlighting Middle East family businesses resilience, growth ambitions and evolving strategic priorities.