International participation up nearly 300 percent at HoReCa 2002

The increased international presence at the Levant's largest and most regional food and hospitality event, which opens at BIEL in the Beirut Central District next week, comes despite earlier concerns over the potential negative repercussions of the September 11 attacks in the US on the local and regional exhibition scene.

"We are very happy to report that Lebanon and the Middle East continue to be attractive destinations for European hotel and foodservice exhibitors," said Joumana Dammous-Salame, Managing Director of organizing-company Hospitality Services. "We look forward to continuing growth for HoReCa and the region's hoteliers industry over the coming years."

Other countries with their own pavilions at the April 9-13 HoReCa 2002 include England and Holland. Companies representing international brands are also present throughout the event.

Held under the patronage of His Excellency The President of the Lebanese Republic General Emile Lahoud, HoReCa 2002 encompasses two main events: The "Levant Trade Show for the Hospitality and Foodservice Industries" and the "International Food and Drink Exhibition."

Other activities on the agenda include the now customary "Hospitality Salon Culinaire", which features an annual chefs competition, an alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages Lebanese Bartending Competition and a "Job Meeting Point" designed to bring employers together with the industry's potential brightest newcomers. In addition HoReCa is introducing Deco'tel which provides innovative looks at hotel design from some of today's leading interior designers.