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Hospitality
Açaí Isn’t Just a Superfood, It’s a Movement for the Planet
Exclusive Interview with Ryan Black, CEO & Cofounder, SAMBAZON
SAMBAZON’s presence at Gulfood 2025 highlights your global reach. What are your key objectives for participating in this major event?
SAMBAZON’s participation in Gulfood 2025 underscores our commitment to expanding the global reach of açaí and driving awareness around sustainable superfoods. Our key objectives include:
– Showcasing our new branding and product innovations to industry leaders and consumers.
– Strengthening relationships with existing and potential distribution partners across the Middle East and beyond.
– Reinforcing our commitment to sustainability and Fair Trade by educating stakeholders on how responsible sourcing impacts both people and the planet.
– Aligning with emerging food trends to position açaí as a key player in the evolving health and wellness movement.
What trends in the food and beverage industry, especially around superfoods like açaí, do you anticipate seeing at Gulfood 2025?
– Functional foods & beverages: Consumers are prioritizing nutrient-dense foods with health benefits, and açaí is at the forefront with its antioxidant-rich profile.
– Plant-based and clean label nutrition: There’s a growing demand for organic, minimally processed, and transparently sourced products like ours.
– Sustainable and ethical sourcing: With heightened awareness about environmental impact, brands with traceable supply chains and strong sustainability commitments like SAMBAZON will continue to gain traction.
– Exotic superfruits in everyday diets: Açaí’s versatility makes it a perfect fit for smoothies, bowls, and on-the-go nutrition, aligning with the trend of convenient yet nutritious eating habits.
Can you share more about SAMBAZON’s Fair Trade initiatives and how they’ve impacted local communities in the Amazon?
SAMBAZON was founded on the principle of conscious capitalism, ensuring that our açaí supply chain is ethically and sustainably managed. Through our Fair Trade Certified program, we:
– Pay premium wages to family farmers in the Amazon, fostering economic growth in rural communities.
– Reinvest in local infrastructure projects, including schools, healthcare facilities, and clean water initiatives.
– Promote biodiversity and rainforest preservation by supporting sustainable harvesting techniques.
To date, our Fair Trade Fund has generated over $1 million in direct contributions to Amazonian communities, helping create a more sustainable future for both people and the planet.
Açaí has become a global superfood sensation. What do you believe fueled its rise, and how has SAMBAZON shaped that narrative?
– Health & wellness movement: As people seek nutrient-dense foods, açaí stands out for its antioxidants, healthy omegas, and low sugar content.
– Social media & food culture: Açaí bowls became an Instagram sensation, influencing their popularity worldwide.
– Sustainability & ethical sourcing: Consumers are drawn to brands with purpose, and SAMBAZON’s commitment to Fair Trade and sustainability has helped differentiate us.
– Product innovation: We’ve played a pivotal role in making açaí accessible through frozen packs, ready-to-eat bowls, and beverages.
SAMBAZON pioneered the first certified organic and Fair Trade açaí supply chain, making it possible for people around the world to enjoy açaí while supporting the Amazon and its communities.
What are some common misconceptions about açaí?
Despite its global popularity, açaí is still misunderstood in several ways.
– “Açaí is only a dessert.” In reality, açaí is incredibly versatile – great for smoothies, bowls, drinks, and even savory applications.
– “All açaí is the same.” Not true! Quality varies based on sourcing, processing, and ingredient transparency. SAMBAZON ensures premium quality with organic and sustainably harvested açaí.
– “Açaí is high in sugar.” Pure açaí contains no added sugar – it’s naturally low in sugar, with rich antioxidants and healthy fats.
From an NFL player to a social entrepreneur, your journey is inspiring. What motivated you to transition into the food industry and start SAMBAZON?
The journey to founding SAMBAZON was fueled by a passion for healthy living, sustainability, and making a positive impact. While traveling in Brazil, I was introduced to Açaí and discovered the incredible nutritional benefits of açaí and saw an opportunity to bring it to the world in a way that was ethical and environmentally responsible.
Our goal wasn’t just to build a brand but to create a business model that protects the Amazon rainforest, supports local communities, and delivers high-quality nutrition to consumers. That vision still drives us today. We are a Triple Bottom Line company.
Gulfood is all about discovering what’s next. What’s the next big thing in food delivery that you believe will disrupt the industry?
The future of food delivery is evolving rapidly, with several disruptive trends coming up.
– Sustainable packaging & zero waste solutions: Consumers demand more eco-friendly packaging, and brands will need to innovate to reduce plastic waste.
– On-demand superfoods & functional beverages: Consumers want quick access to high-nutrition products, and we expect a rise in superfood-based grab-and-go solutions.
SAMBAZON is already positioned for this shift with our ready-to-eat bowls and beverages, making superfoods more convenient and accessible.
Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Dubai is extending a warm welcome to four-legged guests with the launch of ‘Pawfect Stay on the Palm’, a thoughtfully curated pet-friendly staycation package. The new offering coincides with the unveiling of the resort’s 14 newly added Palm Seaview Rooms with Terrace, boasting an expansive outdoor entertaining and sun basking area.
The resort has also announced exclusive collaborations with two prominent homegrown UAE pet brands, Furchild Pet Nutrition and Pet World UAE. These partnerships aim to enhance the stay for pet owners by providing them with exclusive access to offers and discounts on high-quality, locally trusted food and pet accessories throughout their visit.
Located on the second floor, these new rooms blend stylish design with outdoor access, making them the ideal base for guests travelling with pets. Their introduction enables the resort to officially become the first five-star property on Palm West Beach to welcome pets, reinforcing Marriott’s guest-first philosophy.
From the moment of arrival, pets are made to feel like VIPs. A special welcome at check-in includes tailored treats, a welcome letter, and an in-room pack featuring a pet bed along with food and water bowls and branded “Pet in Room” door hanger for use during their stay and take home goodies – chew toy and a walking map. The experience continues with a pet-inclusive breakfast, and a choice of lunch, or dinner that can be enjoyed either in-room or at MYAMI. Dining outlets Myami and Bal Harbour Beach now offer dedicated pet menus and shaded seating, while the Fountain Area provides a relaxed space for downtime.
A highlight of the stay for many guests is access to the Promenade along Palm West Beach, a scenic, pet-friendly stretch perfect for early morning walks, sunset strolls, or simply soaking in the beachfront atmosphere. Widely considered one of Dubai’s best walking spots for dogs, it’s just steps from the resort and easily accessible from the pet-friendly rooms.
“Guests told us what they wanted, and so we created it,” said Gerrit Schmitt, General Manager, Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah. “The addition of pet-friendly stays reflects our commitment to evolving with our guests and delivering meaningful moments of connection. We’re proud to be the first five-star resort on Palm West Beach to open our doors to pets. It’s a natural next step in creating personalised experiences that we hope guests and their furry friends will treasure forever.”
To celebrate and champion this new chapter of hospitality within the local pet community, the resort has teamed up with two of the UAE’s foremost homegrown pet brands. This means every guest bringing their pets can enjoy special offers and discounts from Furchild Pet Nutrition, the UAE’s first and leading fresh and raw pet food company, and Pet World UAE, a premium retailer offering a wide variety of pet products and accessories. These partnerships ensure all pet parents can avail the highest quality, locally trusted food and supplies throughout their stay at the resort, while the canine and feline guests are truly treated like royalty, creating a true home-away-from-home experience, whether they choose the package or simply enjoy the resort’s pet-friendly amenities.
With pet-friendly stays still rare in the UAE’s premium hospitality space, this offering meets a growing demand among local residents for accessible, high-quality getaways that welcome every member of the pack.
Pet policy includes:
- Pet-friendly stays are available only in Palm Seaview Rooms with Terrace
- Up to two pets (dogs or cats only) per room, maximum 25kg each
- AED 300 non-refundable fee per room, per night applies
- Pets may transit through guest lifts, the second-floor hallway, and the lobby, but should not linger in these areas
- Designated pet-friendly areas include Myami, Bal Harbour Beach, the Fountain Area, and the Promenade (map provided in-room)
The ‘Pawfect Stay on the Palm’ package is available exclusively via marriottresortpalmjumeirah.com and includes premium pet amenities, curated in-room dining, and other exciting pet-friendly perks.
PizzaExpress UAE has officially opened its newest restaurant at Four Points by Sheraton Production City, Dubai, bringing its iconic pizzas, beloved Dough Balls, family-friendly setting, and signature social dining experience to one of Dubai’s most accessible and fast-growing neighbourhoods.
Perfectly located for residents of Jumeirah Golf Estates, Victory Heights, Motor City, Sports City, JVT, JVC, and nearby communities, the new PizzaExpress offers a convenient and welcoming dining destination right at their doorstep. Set away from the city’s high-traffic zones, the venue provides ample free parking and hassle-free access, making it an ideal go-to spot for relaxed dining without the stress of long drives or congestion.
The opening further strengthens PizzaExpress UAE’s growth across the Emirates, reinforcing its commitment to creating delicious dining experiences where guests can enjoy great food, great music, and great moments—together.
“We’re delighted to welcome PizzaExpress Live to Four Points by Sheraton Production City,” said Nitin Makhijani, General Manager, Four Points by Sheraton Production City, Dubai. “This new restaurant is more than just a dining spot—it’s designed to be a vibrant hub for the nearby communities.”
Guests can enjoy PizzaExpress’ elevated menu, featuring bold new dishes alongside timeless favourites—from the indulgent Queen Margherita topped with creamy burrata, to the hearty Beef Lasagne, and the always-popular Golden Caramel Dough Balls.
With its modern interiors, warm hospitality, and signature open-kitchen design, PizzaExpress Live at Four Points by Sheraton Production City is set to become the neighbourhood’s favourite hangout for hotel guests and local residents alike.
The opening also follows the launch of the PE Club, PizzaExpress’ new digital loyalty app that instantly rewards guests and unlocks exclusive benefits across all UAE locations.
Hidden behind its signature veil of intrigue, Himitsu introduces The Sake Series, a curated exploration of Japan’s most revered spirit. Available Thursday to Sunday, this new ritual invites guests to discover sake through a collection of tasting flights and pairings that celebrate the craft and character of sake.
The experience is presented in two chapters. The first, The Himitsu Sake Series, features four tasting flights (two sakes per flight, no food) priced from AED 40, and the second, The Four Seasonal Paths, offers seasonal pairings (two sakes + small plates) priced from AED 95, moving through Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter.
The Himitsu Sake Series
The Himitsu Sake Series introduces four curated tasting flights, priced from AED 40, each featuring two distinct sakes chosen to showcase a particular facet of Japanese brewing. Guests can explore The Earth’s Whisper, pairing two expressions that highlight clarity and umami depth; Blossoms in Balance, where floral and fruity notes create harmony; Wings of Elegance, a study in refinement and precision; and Clouds & Bubbles, a playful contrast between traditional craftsmanship and modern effervescence. Together, these flights offer a guided journey through Japan’s finest sake styles, one sip at a time.
The Four Seasonal Paths
For guests looking to explore further, The Four Seasonal Paths offers a tasting journey inspired by Japan’s four seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter. Each pairing combines two sakes with complementary small plates, designed to mirror the flavours and emotions of the season. Think hamachi carpaccio and spicy tuna handrolls for spring’s freshness, unagi nigiri and prawn tempura maki for the richness of summer, and so on. Prices start from AED 95, with each pairing designed to take guests through a progression of flavours that reflect the changing moods of the seasons.
Available from Thursday to Sunday, The Himitsu Sake Series invites guests to slow down, sip, and see sake through a new lens, quietly, behind closed doors.
MARRIOTT RESORT PALM JUMEIRAH LAUNCHES ‘PAWFECT STAY ON THE PALM’
PIZZAEXPRESS OPENS NEW RESTAURANT AT FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON PRODUCTION CITY, DUBAI
WHERE GIFTS LIVE ON: CHATTELS & MORE’S FESTIVE TWIST ON GIFTING
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