Hospitality
The Co-Kitchens Releases ‘Scaling Your Food Business Operations 2024’ Report
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
CELEBRATE TOGETHERNESS THIS RAMADAN WITH AL HALLAB’S IFTAR OFFERINGS
This Ramadan, Al Hallab invites families and loved ones to come together over a generous and comforting Iftar experience inspired by time-honoured Lebanese traditions. Available across all three Al Hallab outlets and for delivery, the Ramadan offering is thoughtfully designed to celebrate togetherness with the flavours that define the holy month.
Guests can enjoy a full dine-in experience at any of Al Hallab’s three outlets, where tables are set with warm hospitality and a feast of Lebanese favorites. From comforting soups like Lentil, Chicken, or Mushroom, to cold appetizers including Hummus, Moutabal, Labneh, Fattoush, and Vine Leaves, every dish is prepared with care to celebrate the flavors of Lebanon. Hot appetizers, grilled skewers, daily mains, and fresh bread complete the spread, followed by a selection of premium Arabic sweets like Kunafa, Shaibeat, Othamlieh, Kunafa rolls, and fruits for dessert.
For those who prefer to break their fast at home, Al Hallab also offers Iftar meal boxes for delivery, making it easy to enjoy a complete Ramadan meal in the comfort of your own space. Available for one, two, or four people, each Iftar includes dates to break the fast, comforting soups, traditional juices like Kamaredine and Jallab, a selection of cold and hot appetizers, daily main dishes, and a taste of Ramadan’s sweetest delights, including Kataef Walnut and Shaibeyat Ashta.
Al Hallab’s Iftar is more than a meal; it is an invitation to gather, share, and celebrate the blessings of Ramadan with loved ones. Whether enjoying the cozy ambiance of the restaurant or the comfort of home, every Iftar is a moment of joy, flavor, and heritage.
Hospitality
LA VILLE HOTEL & SUITES ANNOUNCES THE REOPENING OF LOOKUP ROOFTOP BAR WITH A REFINED MEDITERRANEAN IDENTITY
La Ville Hotel & Suites CITY WALK Dubai, Autograph Collection announces the reopening of its rooftop destination, LookUp Rooftop Bar,on 22nd January 2026. Reintroduced with a refined Mediterranean identity and a fully refreshed look, LookUp now offers a complete day-to-night experience that feels genuinely new, even for long- standing guests of the hotel.
Overlooking City Walk with uninterrupted views of the Burj Khalifa and the downtown skyline, LookUp has been reshaped into a rooftop destination with greater depth and purpose. By day, the space centres around its infinity pool and open terraces, offering a relaxed setting for guests to unwind, swim and spend time outdoors. A strengthened food offering now plays a central role in the experience, with a full Mediterranean-inspired menu featuring wood fired pizzas and fresh sharable dishes, designed for casual dining and longer stays.
As the day moves into evening, LookUp naturally shifts in energy. Guests can enjoy crafted cocktails, a considered music programme and live DJs, alongside a calendar of curated experiences including fashion showcases, brand collaborations and pop ups. Morning wellness sessions such as yoga and pilates further extend the rooftop’s use beyond traditional bar hours, creating a space that works across different moments of the day.
The refreshed LookUp is designed as more than a rooftop bar. It is a lifestyle destination that brings together leisure, dining and social connection in one setting. With its updated design, stronger menu focus and varied programming, LookUp offers returning guests a new way to experience a familiar space, while welcoming new visitors into the heart of City Walk.
The reopening will welcome hotel owners, Marriott leaders, media, partners and influencers, marking the next chapter for one of City Walk’s most recognisable rooftops. With ongoing collaborations across wellness, fashion and lifestyle, LookUp Rooftop Bar is positioned as a key social destination within City Walk, offering experiences from sunrise through to late night.
Michel Nader, Regional Vice President, UAE & Levant – Premium & Select, Marriott International commented: “The return of LookUp is both timely and emblematic of Dubai’s ever-evolving social landscape. With its revitalised Mediterranean-inspired concept, the destination seamlessly combines refined charm with enhanced hospitality, embodying the city’s affinity for sophisticated and vibrant nightlife. We are confident the relaunch of this popular venue will be appreciated by local residents and international visitors.”
Roudi Soubra, Vice President – Asset Management, Dubai Holding, added: “LookUp has always been more than just a rooftop, it’s part of La Ville’s story and spirit. This reimagining represents our commitment to continuous evolution and to creating spaces that inspire connection, creativity, and joy. With its Mediterranean charm and breathtaking views, LookUp once again reflects the essence of Dubai: dynamic, sophisticated, and full of life.”
Hospitality
RAMADAN IFTAR AT OASIS TERRACE & GARDEN, MÖVENPICK DOWNTOWN
This Ramadan, Oasis Terrace & Garden at Mövenpick Hotel Apartments, Downtown Dubai invites guests to break their fast in a relaxed outdoor setting with a garden-style Iftar buffet designed for families, friends, and group gatherings.
The experience features authentic Arabian and regional favourites, complemented by interactive live cooking stations. Guests are welcomed with dates and water on arrival, followed by unlimited access to mezze, salads, hot mains, and signature Oasis desserts. Live stations include Shawarma, slow-cooked Ouzi, and BBQ specialities, alongside a dedicated dessert counter and mocktails with laban.
Set across the venue’s open-air terrace and garden, the Iftar offers a laid-back yet festive atmosphere ideal for both casual and corporate celebrations throughout the holy month.
With its combination of open-air seating, warm hospitality and thoughtfully curated buffet, Oasis Terrace & Garden offers a welcoming space to slow down and reconnect after sunset. The experience reflects the spirit of Ramadan, bringing together comforting flavours, shared plates and a setting designed for togetherness. Available throughout Ramadan 2026 (subject to official moon sighting, expected from 19 February 2026).
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