Regional F&B landscape is “exciting,” said Sunset Hospitality Group Chief

“Teeming with innovation, the landscape reflects a rich diversity of cultures and culinary traditions. Today Dubai, with 13,000 restaurants, ranks second to Paris in restaurant density, boasting a wide choice of gastronomic experiences. Talented people in this industry are constantly pushing boundaries and redefining culinary norms, underscoring the region’s entrepreneurial spirit” – Antonio Gonzalez, Co-Founder, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer Sunset Hospitality Group (SHG)

SHG at a glance

• Founded in 2011
• Creator of hospitality experiences worldwide, from hotels and beach clubs to restaurants and nightlife venues
• Operates 60+ venues in 17+ countries
• Dining venues include Ammos, Black Tap, L’Amo Bistro Del Mare, Luigia, Mott 32 and SUSHISAMBA, among several others

On a high growth mode

Over the last 12 years, SHG has seen an exponential growth rate. In 2024 itself, the Group has expanded its portfolio of brands and concepts, diversified its offerings aligned with changing consumer trends. The company has forged strategic partnerships, entered new markets and strengthened its position in the lifestyle hospitality sector.

Commenting on SHG’s global growth strategy for 2024-25, Gonzalez said, “We are currently solidifying our global hotel business with our expansion plan of developing, opening and operating 20 new hotels by the end of 2025. We started 2024 by accelerating our hotel portfolio growth by taking over the renowned Gran Hotel La Florida in Barcelona. Simultaneously we are making headway with the expansion of our footprint to Asia, entering new markets such as Indonesia, Vietnam and Singapore. We are also building new partnerships with key development groups in America, Asia, Africa and Europe.”

Innovation & ESG are key focus areas

In summation, asked about key areas of innovation in the near term, Gonzalez shared, “We will introduce new culinary concepts, including new restaurants d’Lirio and Hanu. On the technology side, personalisation and customer relationship management (CRM) will be crucial. Our CRM campaign is well underway with clear objectives to increase customer retention rates, improve customer satisfaction and loyalty, boost upselling and cross-selling opportunities, streamline sales and marketing processes and importantly, enhance customer engagement and interaction.”

“Importantly, at SHG, we realised that committing to ESG not only contributes to environmental and social welfare but also enhances long-term business sustainability and resilience. We have launched an ESG department with a dedicated team and have started putting aligned processes and practices in place in our venues and within our head office,” he concluded.

Pick up the May edition of IMAGES RetailME to read the “Vision & Views” of 30+ leaders from the regional F&B landscape.