La Cure Gourmande opens new shop in Abu Dhabi

"This opening is a natural development and part of our expansion planning for the UAE. Abu Dhabi is an important business, retail, and tourist hub and Al Wahda Mall has proven to be very successful since its opening in 2007," commented Nicolas Rubeiz, Managing Partner of the local franchise.

"The extension appealed to us for many reasons including the high quality of tenant mix, unique architecture, thriving entertainment areas and the excellent location in the center of the city. It is a priority for La Cure Gourmande to obtain only the best locations available and we are proud to be part of the Al Wahda Mall's new extension," Rubeiz added.

Originally created in the South of France, La Cure Gourmande has a distinctly French Provencal feel reflected in both the traditional packing and décor of the shops. With 40 locations in France, Belgium and Spain, the opening of the Abu Dhabi location represents only the second outside Europe.

"Business in The Dubai Mall location has far exceeded our expectation which is testament to the market appeal of La Cure Gourmande", said Edouard Hennebert, co-founder of La Cure Gourmande.

"We are equally confident that the Al Wahda Mall location will be a highly desirable destination for sweets lovers throughout the UAE".

While La Cure Gourmande is integrally French, a special range of gift boxes and sweets has been crafted specifically for the local market. The bespoke packaging features iconic scenes including landmarks such as Burj Khalifa, Burj al Arab, Emirates Palace against a backdrop showing dates, camels, falcon and other imagery from the region.

La Cure Gourmande expects to open up to seven additional shops in the UAE and has plans in place for further regional expansion. "It is an exciting time for us and we look forward to bringing the wonderment of La Cure Gourmand to Abu Dhabi's sweets lovers". Rubeiz concluded