Coffee industry set to hit $4.4bn in Mideast

The ‘third wave’ coffee movement is fuelling the growth of the Middle East’s coffee industry, which is expected to climb to $4.4 billion by 2021, according to Euromonitor International.

The new movement has seen a shift in consumer appreciation of coffee as an artisan, specialist and quality experience, rather than a commodity.

As a beverage with multi-cultural appeal, coffee consumption in the region is growing twice as fast as the global average, putting pressure on the food service industry to stay relevant to customers.

Providing a solution to meet the demands of this changing landscape, Dubai International Hospitality Week (DIHW) is the ultimate platform for the full spectrum of coffee sourcing, said a statement.

Taking place from September 18 to 20 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, the three-day event encompasses six trade shows under one roof, to source the very best coffee supplies, from high-tech coffee machines to specialist beans from across the world.

Trixie LohMirmand, Senior Vice President, Exhibitions and Events Management (DWTC), said: "Coffee has long been a beverage enjoyed cross-culturally, and a profitable item on the menu."

"However, a changing coffee culture has meant that the food service industry must be adaptable. Everything from the cafe dining experience and the trained baristas, to the origins of the beans, should be strongly considered to remain competitive in the market," she said.

Dubai International Hospitality Show also incorporates GulfHost 2017, the first dedicated hospitality equipment and food service expo in the Middle East, highlighting the latest, most efficient and innovative equipment to master the art of preparing coffee.