Al Tayer Trends launches region's first Caffè Nero store at The Dubai Mall

The new 1,900 square-foot, 86-seat store is the first by exclusive franchisee Al Tayer Trends, with plans to open new stores and expand to Saudi Arabia and other GCC markets in the near future. The company plans to open at least 50 Caffè Nero outlets across the GCC over the next five years.

Speaking on the occasion of the launch, Guillaume Motte, CEO Al Tayer Trends, said:

"We are pleased to welcome Caffè Nero to our portfolio of food and beverage brands. The brand has enjoyed a category leading position in its home market for many years, and we look forward to emulating that success here in the Middle East, by offering coffee connoisseurs the finest espresso-based, Italian quality coffee available in the market."

Gerry Ford, Chairman and Founder of Caffè Nero is also looking forward to the imminent opening of the first Caffè Nero in the GCC. He said, "We are excited to introduce Caffè Nero to the region and we're fortunate to have found a partner who will be able to bring the best of what Caffè Nero has to offer to the Middle East."

Caffè Nero is renowned for offering a superb customer experience by friendly and expert staff offering a unique, personalised (one-on-one) barista service, selling the finest espresso-based Italian quality coffee, iced drinks and a wide range of freshly prepared, deli-style food.

The discerning coffee lover's choice, Caffè Nero's coffee is strong, rich and distinctive - the only coffee house to include two shots of espresso in every coffee-based drink - has earned the brand such accolades as "the best espresso this side of Milan" by UK's Tatler magazine. The range of freshly blended, handcrafted iced drinks offers a refreshingly cool alternative to hot drinks.

The menu includes a range of delicious Italian influenced food, using natural, fresh ingredients, ranging from freshly toasted paninis, speciality breads such as focaccia, to hot fresh soup, pasta dishes and salads. Mouth-watering sweet options include Tiramisu and other indulgent cakes, as well as a wonderful selection of muffins and pastries.

The store is crafted with superior quality classic Italian finishings. The combination of warm mahogany wood, rich paint palettes, large ornate mirrors and soft leather armchairs and sofas creates the trademark welcoming and relaxing atmosphere. While catering to busy executives and families who require the convenience of a quick, refreshing drink or snack, Caffè Nero customers are encouraged to stay longer, engaging in conversation and taking advantage of the free WiFi service that's available.

Music is another important ingredient in Caffè Nero stores - all tracks are carefully chosen to enhance the ambience in-store throughout the day, from light classical music in the morning to more up tempo jazz and Latin beats in the afternoon and evening. A proud promoter of home-grown musical talent, Caffè Nero will host live performances by top local bands ABRI and Jonas Desai, at the Dubai Mall launch event next month.