European halal food firm to launch in Dubai

A European halal food company has announced plans to launch in Dubai on the back of the ruler Sheikh Mohammed's initiative to make the city an Islamic economic hub.

Dubai FDI, the foreign investment office in the Department of Economic Development (DED), along with the Austria Business Centre has facilitated the establishment of European Food & Beverages (EFB).

The firm aims to be a major supplier for the growing halal foods market in the GCC and the wider Middle East from its Dubai base, a statement said.

The company has also concluded a deal with the Consumer Co-operative Union in the UAE and negotiations are on with other regional and international retailers, the statement added.

Fahad Al Gergawi, CEO of Dubai FDI, said: "The Islamic economy is a wide-ranging sector that holds immense potential and opportunities. Dubai's focus on this sector and its central location will break new grounds for companies, especially those in Europe and North America, aiming to capitalise on the growing demand for halal foods in and around the Middle East."

Al Gergawi said the success of European Foods & Beverages would further boost investor confidence in Dubai and its Islamic economy initiative.

European Food & Beverages was set up in Dubai as the regional office of Landena Wels KG, the Austrian manufacturer of culinary convenience products.

EFB said it has done extensive market research in the GCC and put together a range of halal certified culinary convenience products to enhance retailers' private label portfolio.

"Dubai FDI and Austria Business Centre have been tremendously supportive of our business during our set-up phase and continue to be invaluable partners in terms of networking and providing an impeccable service for our operations base here in Dubai," said Gerhard Machtlinger, managing director of EFB.