Under the patronage of Lebanese Minister of Tourism, H.E. Mr. Avedis Guidanian, Hospitality Services celebrated the official opening of the 25^th edition of HORECA, the annual meeting place for the hospitality and food service industries, on Tuesday March 20, 2018, at Beirut's Seaside Arena (formerly known as BIEL). The ceremony was attended by presidents of associations and syndicates,prominent figures in the hospitality and food service industries as well as media representatives.

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.

For his remarkable and unprecedented achievements in the hospitality sector, Mr. Nouhad Dammous was awarded by the International Hotel and Restaurant Association, represented by Dr. Ghassan Aidi.

Furthermore,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 five Lebanese pastry owners during the opening ceremony for their pivotal role in elevating Lebanese cuisine.

Lebanese Minister of Tourism, H.E. Mr. AvedisGuidanian, inaugurated the 25^th edition of HORECA and congratulated the organizers on reaching this milestone. He spoke about the importance of the exhibition in highlighting Lebanon's prowess in the hospitality and foodservice sectors in addition to the wonderful platform created for the nation's talented professionals to showcase their skills.

Joumana Dammous-Salamé, Managing Director of Hospitality Services, the event organizer, said: "HORECA's success is maintained year after year, and we are proud to provide trade experts a platform where they can meet, network, exchange ideas and explore new products. We are always keen on presenting new concepts, exemplified this year by our celebration of local flavors, the culinary arts and Lebanese hospitality as well as more diverse programs that include more forums, discussions, workshops, sessions and many contests." She added: "Our aim is to exhibit the latest innovations, to showcase the best talents and to shed light on Lebanon's most prominent players in this industry. HORECA fosters positive dialogue and promotes new job opportunities to boost the hospitality sector. It also activates Lebanon's position as a market leader, enhances trade and solidifies ties with the entire region."

Undoubtedly, HORECA shines a bright light on Lebanon's 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 25 daily events, 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 30 top international experts from the world of food, beverage and hospitality.