PRODUCT ZONE
EQUIPMENT
FIT FOR AN INSTAGRAM TABLE With the rise of social media, hotels are paying greater attention to their table settings to provide guests with the finest Instagram moments. HN spoke to five hospitality experts to find out how they select their tableware and glassware. How do you choose the finest tableware and glassware for your hotel or venue?
What should a procurement manager look out for when purchasing these items?
The choice of tablecloths and glassware for a restaurant can affect many aspects of the hotel. We need to match the concept, ambience and location together with the colors and inspirational atmosphere. Furthermore, we need to be conscious of the exposure on social media.
We need to maintain the efficiency of the operation based on value for money and maintenance of the items. The quality of your tablecloths and glassware must match the level of your restaurant.
NÉSTOR DEL TORO BENÍTEZ
General manager Occidental Sharjah Grand, Sharjah, UAE Barceló Hotel Group barcelo.com/en-ae
How do you choose the finest tableware and glassware?
How do you select the best tableware and glassware supplier?
While choosing the glassware, tableware, cutlery and crockery, the concept brand ethos needs to be very well defined. The items chosen need to have added value and must be innovative and unique. The focus should be on the brand of tableware and glassware, making sure it is in sync with what the concept represents.
Previous dealing with the supplier is vital to ensure that the delivery will be prompt and that the supplier has a good reputation in the market.
NAIM MAADAD
Are there any new tableware and glassware trends to look out for? At any given point in time, the trend would always be value for money and cohesive quality syncing well with the brand.
Chief executive and founder Gates Hospitality, Dubai, UAE gateshospitality.com
How do you choose the finest tableware and glassware for your hotel or venue?
What should a procurement manager look out for when purchasing these items?
It is always your menu that drives food service ware choices. When we develop concepts, we build brand guidelines as well as product presentation guidelines. A mood board is created, leading creative teams and chefs toward a final plating style. While creative presentations and creative tableware is pretty much the norm in this Instagram-driven world, we also need to ensure that the chosen product is food safe, commercially built to last and has the right price point.
Procurement managers should build longterm relationships with suppliers and visit trade exhibitions abroad to find the best possible options. However, one must keep in mind that the lead time is usually 60 to 90 days to receive shipments of orders. If restaurants are procuring closer to the opening, they have great options with leading local commercial brands like RAK porcelain for simpler, strong and sturdy lines. The procurement manager should plan in advance and ensure samples are checked before orders are placed, the product is food safe, resilient and not over exposed in the market.
68
HOSPITALITY NEWS ME | AUG - SEP 2021
GABRIELLE F. MATHER
CEO and founder Restaurant Secrets Inc., Dubai, UAE restaurantsecretsinc.com
