Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain:
Diyafa Holdings Co. W.L.L.; a subsidiary of Global Banking Corporation B.S.C. (c) [GBCORP], has announced the signing of a new franchising agreement with leading regional restaurant chain Shakespeare & Co. This is a strategic move aimed at strengthening Diyafa Holdings’ diversified hospitality portfolio and in opening up new business opportunities , in one of the fastest-growing, food and beverage industry segments in the Kingdom.
Mr. Ahmed Al Khan, Chairman of Diyafa Holdings Co. W.L.L. said: “The franchising agreement with Shakespeare & Co., renowned for its unique “Café Restaurant” concept, is yet another step forward towards our drive in seeking niche opportunities, even in challenging market conditions. This will enable us to take advantage of the significant growth potential of the hospitality market and to further add value to Bahrain’s tourism sector, which currently contributes around 12 per cent of Bahrain's national income – a figure which is expected to increase to 25 per cent within the next 10 years.”
Mr. Al Khan emphasised that the company's aggressive expansion initiatives into the hospitality industry reflects the new business dynamics in addressing challenging and adverse market conditions.
"Tourism plays a crucial role in promoting growth in different sectors as Bahrain continues to be a favourite destination of tourists with diverse preferences and tastes. Such a venture is an important strategic move aimed at capitalizing on the fast growth of the restaurant industry, enabling us to expand our businesses in key growth areas and to cater to new niche markets. Diyafa and Shakespeare & Co., are eagerly looking forward to offering a completely new, authentic, fine dining experience to our valued customers. " said Al Khan.
Bahrain is fast emerging as one of the region’s culinary centres and has something appetizing to please the taste buds of both residents and visitors alike. Bahrain's restaurant industry is constantly evolving and has, over the last three decades , expanded tremendously the scope and range of what it offers . No matter what your tastes or preferences are, chances are that there is at least one restaurant that has just what you are looking for. Bahrain’s rich tradition of hospitality combined with an eclectic mix of gourmet food and beverages, is transforming Bahrain’s hospitality and restaurant market segment like never before.
Dr. Edward Saad, President of Shakespeare & Co. said: “ Strong business focus of Diyafa Holdings as a quality-oriented company perfectly matches our own business philosophy, which is why we are very excited with this new venture. Shakespeare & Co.'s restaurants in the UAE have been frequented by diners, from diverse backgrounds, particularly tourists from all over the world. This experience gives us a strong head start as we explore new ideas and concepts in our mission to offer a whole new kind of dining experience to this new market.”
Shakespeare & Co. built its reputation around its crowning glory concept the "Café Restaurant" , offering original culinary delights and a unique dining experience that has become the hallmark of its chain of restaurants.
The restaurant caters to a family clientele with special recreation area for children. It also has outdoor seating for those wanting some sunshine while dining , veranda seating for the shaded outdoor lunch, and a classically decorated indoors for those who prefer the cooler and softer climes inside.
Shakespeare & Co. also boast a patisserie on the premises and the cakes, pastries, chocolates and meringues are an absolute delight even for the most discerning. The menus are a welcome change offering a delectable kaleidoscope of international, continental and lebanese cuisine with great options of sandwiches, soups and salads, scrumptious fresh fruit juices as well as freshly brewed coffee and tea.
Shakespeare & Co. has a successful track-record and currently operates several restaurants as well as flower shops, pastry shops and a catering service within the UAE as well as in other GCC countries. Shakespeare & Co.’s unique approach to fine dining has created a dedicated client base, making it one of the most successful restaurant chains in the region, with a tremendous growth potential.
Diyafa Holdings Company WLL, a subsidiary of Global Banking Corporation B.S.C. (c) [GBCORP] has been established with the strategic objective of leveraging on the opportunities and anticipated future demand in key sectors of business services, food and beverage, hospitality and retail. Diyafa aims to create a portfolio of a variety of services and international franchises within these sectors.
Diyafa’s vision is to emerge as the leading service provider in the region and to be recognized as a value driven organization, with clearly articulated strategic goals and strong corporate ethics enabling sustained and focused growth over the years to come.
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