I had a couple of days to reflect on all that’s happening and how the new updates starting this week are set to affect lifestyle and F&B in the UAE.

First and foremost, I hope we all stay calm, patient and take the time to slow down and stay safe.

Unlike a lot of countries around the world where the quarantine included the closure of restaurants, at the moment, we are still operating somewhat normally. I would consider ourselves lucky to have the restaurant business still running in the UAE. Taking extra health and safety measures and precautions by restaurants is set as a default in the industry. Under no circumstances should anyone operate being sick (whether with or without a pandemic spread). There are more strict measures to be taken in for dining in, which restaurants should also be very aware of.

Being a country that depends on food deliveries and does a great job doing food deliveries with quality and at a speedy delivery, this also makes it possible for a lot of people to still order their meals throughout the day / night. This also means that restaurants and staff can operate, of course not at full capacity, but at least ensure that there is income coming through the doors.

Over the last 2 days, I’ve seen 2 homegrown burger concepts reflecting on the situation and addressing the community with a very transparent and reassuring message on the situation and how they will be operating. It makes me happy to see such a marketing / PR initiative taking place. It’s the time to reassure the community and your loyal customers that we’re all together in this, and we’ve got this. We’re open, we’re taking all the measures and we’re in it together. I’ve already started seeing some tacky posts around; the ‘let’s show the staff cleaning’, I don’t believe this is beneficial input. A brand promise, a transparent message should be more effective. No promotions, no boosts, just reflecting between you (the brand) and your followers / customers.

Another homegrown concept that I’ve always liked and been a customer at reflected with a very well put together emailer this morning.

Reach your customers through their channels. Don’t over do it, and just be transparent. This is the time to use your database, this is the time to be creative yet very subtle. Choose your words in the right manner and focus on the bigger objective: reassuring people that all measures are taken and we are all in it together.

 

Stay safe.

Dee xx

 

Image credit: Pixabay