Ramadan has traditionally been a challenging time of the year for F&B outlets, however, adapting your strategy can help your business to thrive, says Abdul Kader Saadi, managing director and owner of Glee Hospitality Solutions.
Preparation is key to food and beverage outlets having a healthy revenue during Ramadan. Outlets must begin preparations around three months ahead of the holy month and start communicating plans with suppliers early on since they could also be fasting and working reduced hours. Getting stock confirmed in advance is vital for smooth operations.
Many outlets offer traditional buffets with masses of choice so there is a lot of pressure to ensure your offering stands out from the crowd. Although it’s important to introduce new and relevant menus, it is equally vital an outlet stays true to its identity even while adapting to Ramadan requirements. Always play to your strengths and don’t try to be everything to everyone. For example, try looking at the most popular items on your menu and give them a twist.
Ramadan is a key month for socialising. Family and friends meet for iftars and are invited to each other’s homes, so if an outlet can adapt a dessert offering to make it suitable for takeaway and offer gift packaging, this can be a hit.
It’s a good idea to utilise this quieter period to encourage staff vacations since working hours are shorter and can be managed by single shift staff. Also, ensure your outlet is licensed for deliveries during fasting hours and is open for delivery and takeaway.
During this challenging time of year, adapting your business is key to ensuring it continues to be successful.
About the author: Abdul Kader Saadi is managing director of Glee Hospitality Solutions, a Dubai-based collaboration of industry experts with broad knowledge and expertise in developing, opening and managing restaurants. Made up of a team of consultants, operators and equity holders of various food and beverage outlets spread across the region, Glee has a deep understanding of the global marketplace and boasts more than 30 years of experience in the business of hospitality. Now in its seventh year of operations, Glee Hospitality has launched over 20 concepts, 40 outlets and manages a team of nearly 400 employees with various concepts in their development phase.
