Hospitality

The Co-Kitchens Releases ‘Scaling Your Food Business Operations 2024’ Report

Published

1 year ago

July 9, 2024

The Co-Kitchens has announced the launch of its latest report, “Scaling Your Food Business Operations 2024,” tailored for F&B professionals at all levels. With the report unveiling hard truths and proven strategies, the report equips readers with actionable guidance to navigate and overcome industry hurdles.

“Drawing from Dubai and London’s vibrant F&B sectors, the report features case studies, market overviews, and strategies covering branding, marketing, product development, and operations. Backed by data and industry expertise, it provides practical insights for F&B ventures. As readers delve into the report, we highlight the pivotal role of co-kitchens in the F&B ecosystem, showcasing how they foster innovation and serve as catalysts for culinary ventures,” comments Shahzad Bhatti, Founder of The Co-Kitchens.

Key Industry Drivers

In 2023, the global economy grappled with mounting inflationary pressures driven by various factors, such as supply chain disruptions, increased energy prices, and wage pressures. In the UK, inflation surged significantly, hitting 11.1% in October 2022, its highest level in 41 years, resulting in a notable increase in the cost of living. London’s restaurant sector faced challenges, with a reported decline in reservations by 12% since 2019, impacting profitability. However, as of December 2023, the UK’s inflation rate stands at 4.0%, showing improvement from its peak.

Meanwhile, in the UAE, inflation remained moderate compared to global trends, reaching 4.9% in January 2023 and decreasing to 2.5% by December 2023. Rising inflation led to a higher cost of living, affecting basic necessities like housing and healthcare. Income variability compounded the issue, with median household disposable income experiencing slight decreases in both the UK and the UAE, resulting in less disposable income for non-essential expenses, including dining out and restaurant meals.

Key Operating Trends

“2023’s challenging economic environment presented unique opportunities for shared kitchen space operators like The Co-Kitchens. Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, these spaces became increasingly attractive to individuals seeking to start or expand food-related businesses. The Co-Kitchens experienced a significant increase in business inquiries, with a 65% rise in London and a remarkable 215% increase in Dubai from 2022 to 2023,” comments Bhatti.

Positioned as hubs and testing grounds for aspiring food entrepreneurs, shared kitchen spaces capitalized on the growing demand for smaller batch-cooked food, often made with higher-quality ingredients. The surge in home cooking also led to increased demand for essential cooking ingredients, meal kits, and kitchen equipment from grocery stores. Online food delivery platforms adapted their offerings to include ingredients and cooking instructions, bridging the gap between dining out and home cooking. Collaboration with food producers, retailers, and delivery services further facilitated home cooking ventures, opening new revenue avenues in this evolving market.

2024 Opportunities

In 2024, The Co-Kitchens is poised to embrace transformative trends and seize emerging opportunities in the F&B industry. Advancements in technology offer profound profiling capabilities, enabling F&B brands to better understand their customer demographics.

Moreover, inventory management undergoes a paradigm shift with the integration of AI algorithms. Rather than stockpiling ingredients, businesses leverage AI forecasting systems to analyse historical data and anticipate demand accurately. This strategic approach minimizes excess stock, reduces wastage, and optimizes resource allocation, ultimately cutting costs and environmental impact.

“AI algorithms empower businesses to predict orders and optimize operational strategies proactively. From forecasting manpower requirements to tailoring pricing strategies based on customer behaviours, AI-driven insights enhance operational efficiency and establish a competitive edge in the dynamic F&B landscape. As The Co-Kitchens continues to evolve, our commitment to technological advancements ensures we remain at the forefront of innovation in the industry,” adds Bhatti.

Value Proposition

The Co-Kitchens is purposefully crafted to support growing food businesses, embodying a core philosophy of democratizing entrepreneurship in the food industry. By providing small-scale culinary ventures with access to fully equipped kitchens without prohibitive costs, we enable them to establish their presence in the market. Our kitchens house all essential tools and facilities for food preparation and cooking, complemented by professional cleaning services and dedicated maintenance staff to ensure hygiene and safety standards are maintained.

Currently operating in Dubai and London, two dynamic culinary landscapes, The Co-Kitchens stands at the heart of flourishing culinary scenes where diverse tastes, global influences, and innovative trends converge. In Dubai, with locations in Jebel Ali and Al Sufouh, aspiring food entrepreneurs can tap into a thriving market and benefit from the city’s role as a hub for local and international culinary enthusiasts.

“The Co-Kitchens not only provides essential shared spaces equipped with state-of-the-art facilities but also serves as vibrant hubs for collaboration, community-building, and the realization of culinary dreams. Our strategic presence in the global culinary capitals of Dubai and London underscores our commitment to supporting and shaping the future of the food industry on an international scale,” concludes Bhatti.

Hospitality

23 YEARS HOT, 23 CASAS STRONG: NANDO’S BRINGS THE HEAT TO JBR

Published

18 hours ago

November 11, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

Barci, Nando's black and red rooster mascot, holding scratch-and-win cards outside Nando's JBR restaurant in Dubai

After 23 years of firing up taste buds across the UAE, Nando’s is celebrating a milestone moment with the launch of its 23rd Casa at Nando’s JBR The Walk. The iconic Southern African brand, loved for its flame-grilled PERi-PERi, is set to celebrate the official grand opening of its new restaurant with a lively launch event on Monday, November 17, from 5 PM to 7 PM.

In the lead-up to the event, Barci, Nando’s cheeky mascot, will take over The Walk from November 10 to 13, spreading smiles, posing for photos, and handing out scratch-and-win cards that give fans the chance to win Nando’s exclusive goodies, from free menu items to signature sauce bottles and the ultimate prize of a free meal for four.

Adding even more sizzle to the festivities, guests of the event will witness a one-of-a-kind Nando’s Grill Off between Fernando Duarte, one of Nando’s founders, and Joe Masedi, the brand’s longest-serving head griller from South Africa. Taking place midway through the event, following the official ribbon and cake cutting ceremony, the friendly showdown promises to be a highlight moment for media and guests alike.

Since its soft opening earlier this summer, Nando’s JBR The Walk has become a go-to for beachside diners looking for bold flavours and upbeat vibes. Perfectly positioned along one of Dubai’s most popular promenades, the restaurant combines soulful food, vibrant interiors, and the warm, friendly energy that Nando’s is loved for.

“Since opening our JBR branch earlier this year, we’ve been blown away by the love and enthusiasm from our guests,” said George Kunnappally, Managing Director, Nando’s UAE. “This celebration is our way of saying thank you, bringing together great food, great vibes, and great people, just the way Nando’s does it best. Barci’s return makes it even more special, as we spread that signature PERi-PERi energy right in the heart of JBR”

The grand opening celebration will capture everything that makes Nando’s a UAE favourite, great food, great vibes, and great people, as the brand commemorates 23 years of PERi-PERi passion across the Emirates.

Hospitality

RIVA BEACH CLUB WELCOMES THE FESTIVE SEASON WITH UNFORGETTABLE BEACHFRONT EVENTS AND EXCLUSIVE OFFERS

Published

22 hours ago

November 11, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

Luxury hotel pool with palm trees overlooking Dubai skyline and waterfront

The festive season in Dubai is here, and there’s no better place to embrace the celebrations than Riva Beach Club on Palm Jumeirah. Blending golden sands, turquoise waters, and a relaxed spirit, Riva is turning up the fun with a sparkling lineup of events, from weekly experiences to Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations. Early bird offers are available until 10 November 2025 – because who doesn’t love a good discount?

Christmas Day Brunch – Celebrate in True Riva Style

Gather your loved ones for a spectacular Christmas feast that blends beachside charm with festive cheer. Indulge in an unlimited buffet of holiday classics and sweet treats, all paired with free-flowing drinks and live entertainment. Little ones will be thrilled with the dedicated kids’ fun zone and crafts, while adults can toast the day with complimentary wine on arrival.

For those looking to welcome 2026 in style, the New Year’s Eve Celebration promises a vibrant beachfront evening with panoramic skyline views, live music, festive décor, and free-flowing drinks under the stars. It’s the ultimate way to ring in the New Year with friends and family right on the sand!

UAE Resident Offer (Every Monday): Start the week with sunshine and flavour. Residents enjoy 50% off the à la carte menu, perfect for a midweek pause with Mediterranean favourites and waterfront vibes.

Mankind Tuesdays (Every Tuesday): Turn a regular Tuesday into an adventure. Men get full beach and pool access, curated dining, up to 50% off water sports rentals with Ignite Water Sports, and 30% off at Kalm Grooming Salon – all for AED 99 per person. Paddleboards, kayaks, and e-foils bring adrenaline and fun, making it the ultimate weekday escape.

The Great Family Weekend (Saturday & Sunday): Weekends just got better. Families can enjoy pool and beach access, curated dining, and kids’ entertainment. The package is AED 399 for two adults and AED 99 per child, with night swim access until 10 PM, because the fun shouldn’t stop when the sun goes down.

Located along Palm Jumeirah’s scenic coastline, Riva Beach Club continues to define the city’s beach lifestyle. With Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, relaxed energy, and stunning views, it remains a favourite destination to celebrate, dine, and unwind for all ages.

Hospitality

PIZZAEXPRESS UAE UNVEILS ELEVATED NEW MENU CELEBRATING FRESH FLAVOURS AND CULINARY CREATIVITY

Published

1 day ago

November 11, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

Assorted restaurant appetizers and cocktails including wings, sliders, fries, and colorful drinks on marble table

PizzaExpress UAE has introduced its freshly elevated menu, reimagining the brand’s most-loved classics while adding bold new creations that cater to the UAE’s evolving and adventurous palate.

The refreshed menu reflects PizzaExpress’ ongoing commitment to innovation, freshness, and flavour-first dining experiences. While the brand continues to uphold its 60-year heritage of handcrafted recipes and warm hospitality, the new menu brings a contemporary edge to its culinary story — offering something special for loyal guests and new diners alike.

“At PizzaExpress, we’ve always believed in celebrating food that connects people — from our iconic dough balls to the pizzas and pastas crafted in our kitchens every day,” said Neha Kumar, Brand & Marketing Manager, PizzaExpress UAE. “With this new menu, we’re elevating that experience with fresh ingredients, bold flavours, and exciting global inspirations, while keeping the soul of PizzaExpress alive.”

Celebrating a Fresh Elevated Menu

The new menu brings a sense of discovery and indulgence to every bite — combining signature favourites with inspired, globally influenced creations.

Menu Highlights:

Signature Pizzas: Carbonara, Garlic Prawn, Duo Romana, Paneer Tikka, Four Season Speciale, and BBQ Burnt End.
Pasta & Risotto: Chicken & Pesto and Carbonara.
Grills & Mains: Roast Beef, Grilled Salmon, and Lemon & Herb Chicken.
Starters & Soups: Truffle & Chicken Potato Dippers, ‘PizzaExpress’ Dynamite Prawns, Roasted Plum & Burrata Salad, Cheese Poppers, and Hawaiian Hot Dough Balls.
Salads: Avocado Quinoa Salad and Beetroot Feta Salad.
Desserts: Mango Glazed Cheesecake, Speculoos Molten Cake, Pistachio Brownie Overload, and Tropical Trio.

Each dish has been crafted to balance freshness, creativity, and comfort — hallmarks that define the PizzaExpress dining experience.

Blending Heritage with Modern Innovation

The introduction of the elevated menu follows a series of brand milestones for PizzaExpress UAE, including the launch of its digital loyalty app, PE Club, which rewards guests instantly and offers exclusive benefits across all UAE outlets.

Together, these initiatives highlight the brand’s evolving focus on culinary innovation, customer engagement, and digital-first dining experiences — keeping PizzaExpress at the heart of the UAE’s vibrant casual dining scene.