Arabian Coffee Company & Al Sayer Group introduces popular coffee chain 'Caribou' to the Middle East

The launch of this outlet in Dubai is part of the group's efforts to introduce one of the most popular coffee chains in the United States, to the Middle East.

Beginning its foray in the Middle East, with the launch of its first coffee shop in Kuwait, the launch in Dubai at the DIFC location, is an initiative undertaken by the group in collaboration with the Caribou master coffee experts to introduce a premium coffee experience to the Middle East, after successfully establishing Caribou Coffee, as the popular choice amongst millions in the United States, through their 425 exclusive outlets in seventeen states.

In a unique and distinguished launch setting, the visiting dignitaries were presented with an exclusive opportunity to taste sixteen blends of coffee of varying roast degrees, mastered and offered by Caribou, in an exquisite and comfortable wood lodge ambience, that is Caribou's signature ambience across all its outlets worldwide. An entertainment corner, catering to the specific visitor profile, further provided a glimpse into the outlets attention to detail and the concern to live up to the concept of a relaxing "Coffee Break".

"We are extremely happy to announce the launch of our flagship coffee shop location in Dubai at the DIFC location. As a group, we are well aware of the Middle Eastern traditions and its passion for coffee drinking, it is primarily these nuances that were a great motivation factor for us to introduce the Caribou Coffee experience to the region",

said Mr. Ammar Daoud, General Manager, Arabian Coffee Company, FZCO: Licensee of Caribou Coffee Company, Inc.

Speaking on the occasion of the launch, Mr. Christopher Rich, Vice President, Global Franchising for Caribou Coffee Inc. said "On behalf of Caribou, I would like to thank the, Al Sayer Group for their contribution towards the roll out of an extensive expansion of the Caribou Coffee chain, in the Middle East where coffee enjoys a traditional significance. Since Dubai is considered the trend capital of the region, this coffee shop will enable us to lend the Caribou touch, to an age old coffee drinking tradition in the region".

The group further plans to expand the Caribou Coffee chain in twelve markets in the Middle East in collaboration with the Al Sayer Group. The chain plans for ten coffee shops in Kuwait and twelve in the UAE by the end of 2006, with long term plans for 250 Caribou Coffee outlets in the region within the next ten years.