Under the patronage of Lebanese Minister of Tourism, H.E. Mr. AvedisGuidanian the opening of the 24th edition of HORECA, the annual meeting place for the hospitality and foodservice industries, took place on Tuesday April 4, 2017 at BIEL. The eventwas attended by presidents of associations and syndicates as well asprominent figures in the hospitality and foodservice industries.
This year, HORECA is held under the theme “From Lebanon to the World,” giving eminence to Lebanese flavors that have become popular on an international scale and highlighting Lebanese achievements in the hospitality and foodservice industries.
The Syndicate of Owners of Restaurants, Cafés, Night-Clubs and Pastries, in partnership with Hospitality Services and under the patronage of the Lebanese Tourism Minister, honored 11 Lebanese restaurant owners during the opening ceremony for their pivotal role in elevating Lebanese cuisine. Based on their originality, service and high quality food, the “Cedar Ambassadors” were recognized for their contribution to the development of Lebanese tourism, and for helping to position Beirut as the “Best International City for Food.”
Undoubtedly, HORECA shines a bright light on Lebanon; its hospitality, gastronomy, restaurants, chefs, experts, entrepreneurs and key players and acts as a positive medium for young talents and professionals to showcase their skills through a wide variety of competitions. Staging more than 60 competitions and live cooking workshops before a local and international audience of thousands, HORECA has become known for rewarding creativity, talent and excellence.This year’s exhibition will feature more than 350 exhibitors showcasing over2,500 brands and new products. The four-day exhibition will gather in excess of 15,000 trade visitors and 25 top international experts from the world of food, beverage and hospitality.
Joumana Dammous-Salamé, Managing Director of Hospitality Services, said, “HORECA continues to grow year after year and we are proud to offer trade professionals a platform where they can meet, network, exchange knowledge, explore new products and solidify ties for the future of their businesses. We are always keen to bring fresh ideas to the table and we are doing that this time around through our celebration of local flavors, Lebanese gastronomy and hospitality, as well a richer events program boasting more forums, roundtables, workshops, live demonstrations and countless contests.” She added by saying, “Our mission has always been to showcase the latest innovations, the best talent and highlight key industry players. HORECA fosters positive dialogue and new business opportunity, reinforcing the prowess of Lebanon’s hospitality sector and its position as a market leader and innovator in the Middle East”.