Value-for-money Valentine

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Valentines celebrations are a chance for F&B outlets to try something different to entice customers.

As Valentine's Day 2009 approaches, outlets must implement innovative, cost-efficient ideas to attract business and maximise the romantic returns.

Valentine's Day celebrations are a big earner for F&B outlets across the world, including the Middle East, which boasts a large community of tourists and ex-pats all of whom are keen to eat out on February 14.

"Valentine's Day is one of the biggest celebrations for the ex-pats living in the UAE," confirmed Kempinski Mall of the Emirates food and beverage manager Gerrit Thiebes.

The day also offers outlets a prime opportunity to be creative, pointed out Landmark Group assistant marketing manager - food division Marizel Salvador.

"There is ample opportunity to try out new things, and hopefully attract some returning customers - it is an opportunity to offer guests something special", Salvador added.

Of course, for the numerous F&B outlets housed in hotels across the region, the day also provides an excellent opportunity to cross-sell, with hotels offering a variety of Valentine's packages involving bed and breakfast, dinner and even special gifts.

Le Méridien Al Aqah Beach Resort director of food and beverage Gian Raffaelle Sabbatucci explained that the beach-front hotel had gone for the value-added approach this year.

"We've devised a package that includes everything - a red rose; welcome drinks; a spa bath in the room; a secluded candle-lit dinner on the resort's private beach; and in the morning, a ‘bubbly breakfast' delivered to your door."

This year will see customers seeking out the most inventive packages and value-for-money options, predicted Kempinski's Thiebes, as the region starts to feel the pinch of the current global financial situation.

However the consumer demand for top value celebration options can work in a property's favour, Thiebes continued.

"We have designed some great packages for our guests to take advantage of this year and although the turnover may not be as high as previous years, we are sure that through attractive promotions and value-added services we will continue to attract a high level of business," he said.

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