Global Restaurant Investment Forum

Bench Events has been organising business conferences in Africa since 2011 including the Africa Hotel Investment Forum - AHIF, now on it’s 9th annual edition which attracts 600+ hospitality investment decision makers every year to the respective host country. AHIF has been hosted by Kenya, Ethiopia, Togo, Rwanda – and its sister event FIHA has been hosted by Morocco recently.

GRIF landed in Africa in 2018 with a fabulous Culinary Tour of Nairobi featuring case studies and success stories by carefully selected restaurants including: Le Grenier À Pain, Nyama Mama, Java House, 360 Pizza, Seven Foods & Grill and Mercado

We are happy to introduce a GRIF Society briefing at AHIF on 23 September in Addis this year as part of GRIF global series.

GRIF x AHIF – A Focus on Hotel F&B

15:30 – 16:00
Future of F&B in hotels

Looking at alternative business models such as JV, Revenue share, MA, LA, Franchise, Lease, Manchise? How do you know which is for you and when do they work well? Are we seeing all day dining evolve as a consequence? What are some of the emerging trends in the industry which are likely to impact the African market? Followed by Q&A with the audience.

Christian Abell Vice President Food & Beverage MEA, Marriott International
Emma Banks VP Food & Beverage Strategy & Development EMEA, Hilton


16:00- 16:20
The Kitchen of the Future
The impact of reducing food waste through Artificial Intelligence, both on a business' bottom line and the global war against food waste. Uncovering the results of a long-term project with Emaar.

Tjalling van den Burger Business Development Manager MEA, Winnow Solutions


16:20 – 17:00
What do you need to know when entering a franchise agreement?
Understanding the red flags, due diligence to complete and what to look out for in finding the right partner and right fit for your property.

David Singleton Former Area Vice President, Franchise Operations & Development EMEA/South Asia, Hard Rock Cafe International