Unique food court concept at Gardens Shopping Mall fully leased one year ahead of opening

World renowned retail and food consultants, Food Service Retailing (FSR) and international architects and designers, DesignInc, are working with Gardens Shopping Mall to create a unique alternative to traditional food court offerings.

"The food court will be a major highlight of the mall, offering a diverse range of international cuisine. The new concept will create a welcoming atmosphere with 16 individualised food court outlets to choose from, all in one destination, and each with its own signature design and layout. Customers will be able to view their food being cooked and a wider choice of food will be available," said Andrew Chambers, General Manager, Gardens Shopping Mall. "The new food court concept will create a dining experience that will be unique in terms of gourmet tastes, ambiance and relaxation."

Australia based FSR, has worked on major retail and food service projects across the world. With 25 years experience of assessing the requirements of clients and a proven track record, FSR are specialists in developing a strategy that will enhance the F&B offering in any development.

"When we looked at the local market and assessed the requirements of the region, we noticed that there are a large number of people that use food court facilities on a regular basis in this part of the world. Since presenting the mall to potential tenants, we had an enormous surge of interest with over 150 parties applying for the 16 tenancies. We have selected tenants that are happy to work within our guidelines and who offer a fresh variety of food," said Francis Loughran, Managing Director, FSR.

"Some of the interested parties believe that the unique food court design being used by Gardens Shopping Mall, that has never been used before in the Middle East market, will help maximise their sales opportunities. The detailed presentation of the Gardens Shopping Mall's unique food court concept helped spotlight the benefits of our design as opposed to the traditional food court design in shopping malls around the region. Participating in this project is a natural evolution in the marketing strategy of the potential tenants that we addressed," said Loughran.

"The food and beverage (F&B) area of a shopping mall should be the public face of any development and a place where people want to gather with friends and family. F&B is a significant investment for any project and is a good source of revenue as it encourages visitors to stay in the complex for a longer period of time," Loughran added.

DesignInc, an Australian firm of architects, international designers and urban planners, work with FSR to offer a one-stop service for clients. The company has worked on major projects in Australia and South East Asia.

Carolyn Varney, Director, DesignInc. said: "We are working with FSR to offer Gardens Shopping Mall a complete service. We are excited about this project in Dubai because it represents a new concept in the region which we expect will be well received. By introducing natural elements and segregating areas within the food court, we hope to create a more natural, relaxing and real environment."

"Gardens Shopping Mall is highly themed, following the travels of Ibn Battuta, the legendary 14th century Arabic explorer. We want the food court to carry its own identity and to be presented as another place of discovery for visitors. The food area will combine open kitchens, food displays, natural light, outdoor spaces, gardens and idyllic views. We have used natural materials and used a different approach to signage to convey this message throughout the area," said Ms. Varney.

A wide array of international foods will be available. Visitors can choose from Lebanese, Indian and Oriental food, as well as Italian and American food and cafes. In line with upward trends in fresh and organic food, there will also be an emphasis on healthier food, including soups and salads and fruit juices and smoothies.

The food court will be open all day, offering a wide range of well balanced meals and snacks throughout the day. The tenants will be offering eat in, take away and delivery services. Children will also be considered, offering specific children's meals and portions, making it truly a food court that offers something for everyone.