'The future of food is sustainable, smart, and transformative': IFFCO Group's Rizwan Ahmed at Gulfood 2025
RELATED TOPICS
UAE
RELATED COMPANIES
IFFCO Tiffany & Co.
Highlights:
IFFCO Group celebrated three decades at Gulfood with a dynamic showcase, featuring an extensive array of products, from carbon-neutral oils to cutting-edge alternative proteins
IFFCO Group executives led discussions at the Food500 Summit on food trends and opportunities
Dubai, UAE: IFFCO Group, the multinational powerhouse headquartered in the UAE, continued to push the boundaries of innovation in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector at Gulfood 2025. Marking three decades of participation at one of the world's premier F&B events, the company showcased a diverse range of products, unveiled cutting-edge advancements in food science, and engaged in industry-shaping discussions to reinforce its leadership in the evolving food landscape.
In addition to a significant presence on the exhibition floor, IFFCO Group executives took centre stage at the Food500 Summit, which brought together business leaders, policymakers, investors, and innovators to address key issues including international trade, legislation, environmental aspirations, health and wellbeing and the socioeconomic transformations impacting global food security.
In a panel titled 'Trends and Opportunities in the F&B Space', Mohammed Itani, CEO of Oils & Fats, IFFCO Group (GCC and Levant), emphasised the growing consumer demand for ethically sourced, low-carbon-footprint food products.
"Consumers today are more conscious than ever, demanding food that is not only healthier but also ethically sourced and environmentally responsible. At IFFCO Group, we are committed to driving innovation – whether through plant-based alternatives, sustainable packaging, or reduced-carbon food production – to meet evolving consumer expectations and build a more sustainable food industry," said Itani.
He also highlighted a significant shift in GCC dining habits, noting a 61% surge in weekly dine-outs in Dubai alone.
'The shift in the GCC's dining culture, combined with the explosive growth of food delivery, is reshaping how consumers experience food – driving demand for convenience, premium dining, and innovative food solutions,' he added.
IFFCO Group's stand drew in thousands of visitors, offering an interactive journey through its product offerings across Impulse food, Oils & Fats, Culinary, Agri Business, and Beauty. The company also organised live product demonstrations and tastings of its high-quality, innovative food solutions.
Rizwan Ahmed, Executive Director of IFFCO Group said, 'The future of food is sustainable, smart, and transformative and Gulfood's landmark 30th edition is the ultimate platform for us to showcase this vision to the world. The excitement and engagement we have witnessed at our stand reflect the growing demand for high-quality, responsible, and forward-thinking food solutions. We remain committed to delivering impactful food innovation, while driving dialogues with decision-makers to shape the future of food in the UAE and beyond.'
IFFCO Group showcased its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and quality through the expansive line-up of products on display. Highlights included carbon-neutral olive oils under the Rahma brand, alternative proteins from Thryve, and a diverse range of premium food solutions designed for bakeries and restaurants.
About IFFCO Group:
Established in 1975, IFFCO is a leading multinational FMCG group headquartered in the UAE. Its leading FMCG brands, including London Dairy, Tiffany, Noor, Rahma, Al Baker, Hayat and Savannah, and a portfolio of industry solutions and services enrich the lives of millions of consumers and customers globally. The company has 95 operations in 50 Countries, supported by around 15,000 employees, and its 80+ brands are available in over 100 countries.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Zawya
17 hours ago
- Zawya
IFFCO Group 'Proud to be Recertified' as a Great Place to Work in the UAE and Saudi Arabia
DUBAI, UAE: The IFFCO Group has announced that the organisation has been recertified as a Great Place To Work® in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, a reflection of the company's dedication to building and maintaining an excellent workplace environment, based on the fundamental principle of offering dynamic and innovative opportunities to every member of staff, wherever they work around the world, and focusing on their qualities. Rizwan Ahmed, Executive Director at IFFCO Group, expressed his delight at the announcement, saying: 'We are a multinational organisation, and it is a core value that we remain 100% committed to the welfare and prospects of the so many diverse people and cultures who work with us and across our complete supply chain: we are honoured by the faith and trust that they in turn have demonstrated to us through supporting IFFCO's recertification by the 'Great Place to Work' initiative. 'In addition, as advocates of a DEI-centered recruitment philosophy, we put an emphasis on attracting a diverse pool of candidates, for example: by using inclusive language in job descriptions, partnering with diverse recruit ment platforms and ensuring that our interview panels include individuals from a range of backgrounds, we safeguard the process of conducting fair and unbiased assessments – then make sure that we put the right candidates in the right place, at the right time. 'More to the point is the fact that at IFFCO Group, we actively pursue a policy of 'whole-career' duty of care to all employees, offering a multitude of training and up-skilling opportunities while promoting a healthy work-life balance, enabling us to attract and retain the very best people.' Mohammed AlShair, Executive Chairman of Great Place to Work® Middle East, said: 'Congratulations to IFFCO Group for being certified by Great Place to Work® Middle East for the second time! This repeated recognition is a testament to your commitment to fostering a positive and supportive work environment and we applaud your dedication to your employees.' Great Place To Work® is a worldwide supporter of creating a positive workplace culture by identifying employers who contribute to the empowerment of the workforce. The Great Place to Work® certification is determined through direct confidential feedback gathered from an organisation's employees through anonymous surveys, the results of which reaffirm the sense of belonging that employees feel in their work within an organisation, showing trust in a company through engagement and the creation of a positive workplace experience. About IFFCO Group: Established in 1975, IFFCO is a leading multinational FMCG group headquartered in the UAE. Its leading FMCG brands, including London Dairy, Tiffany, Noor, Rahma, Al Baker, Hayat and Savannah, and a portfolio of industry solutions and services enrich the lives of millions of consumers and customers globally. The company has 95 operations in 50 Countries, supported by around 15,000 employees, and its 80+ brands are available in over 100 countries.
Khaleej Times
6 days ago
- Khaleej Times
Innovative Co-Living: The Myriad's New Student Housing Model in Dubai
As co-living continues to gain traction globally, The Myriad is setting a new benchmark in the Gulf region with a student housing model designed for a mobile, urban generation. Developed by Strategic Housing Group (SHG), The Myriad introduces a managed, community-driven living environment that merges flexibility, affordability, and social interaction. Located in Dubai International Academic City, The Myriad Dubai goes beyond traditional student accommodation by offering a purpose-built, institutionally managed residence. Designed to support students academically, socially, and personally, it has emerged as a flagship model for co-living in the region. 'At The Myriad, our vision has always been to create a living experience that empowers students to thrive,' said Vik Rao, CEO of The Myriad and Strategic Housing Group. 'We believe co-living is not a trend but a fundamental shift in how young people relate to space and each other.' With fully furnished private units, high-speed Wi-Fi, co-working lounges, fitness centres, and student-budget-friendly F&B outlets, The Myriad Dubai offers a comprehensive lifestyle solution. It also hosts a year-round programme - DO WELL (Work Opportunities, Events & Entertainment, Life Learning, and Living & Leisure) - curating events and wellness activities that foster a sense of belonging and engagement. This model addresses growing demand among Millennial and Gen Z students for affordable, flexible, and community-oriented living. As higher education enrollment and student mobility rise across the GCC, The Myriad is not merely responding to change; it is shaping the future of student accommodation. The brand's success has earned it accolades from The Global Economics Awards, Arabian Best of Best Awards, and the World Realty Congress, recognising its innovative approach and high operational standards typically seen in hospitality.
Zawya
23-05-2025
- Zawya
RAK Properties grows residential portfolo offering with the launch of ENTA
New product class for Mina adds variety to luxury focused destination Design led community to feature onsite restaurant, co-working spaces and foster strong sense of community Sameh Muhtadi, CEO, RAK Properties: 'ENTA brings an entirely new demographic to Mina, and immediately changes the conversation around co-living spaces – it's exciting to be at the vanguard of a new movement.' Ras Al Khaimah, UAE: RAK Properties, Ras Al Khaimah's leading publicly listed property developer, continues to expand its residential product offering with the launch of ENTA MINA – a new design led apartment concept developed in partnership with HIVE and A.R.M Holding. ENTA MINA, consisting of 119 character-rich residences, is a new, design-forward residential brand, catering to a new generation of homebuyers and occupants. ENTA MINA seeks to offer a complete lifestyle ecosystem with its resident café and restaurant, hosting lounge, library, infrared sauna, plunge pools, outdoor gathering areas, and co-working facility. Through ENTA MINA, RAK Properties, in partnership with HIVE, aims to support a modern, flexible work driven lifestyle and economy. Commenting, Sameh Muhtadi, Chief Executive Officer RAK Properties, said: 'ENTA brings an entirely new demographic to Mina, and immediately changes the conversation around co-living spaces. This is a segment typically within the rental market, but with ENTA MINA, you can buy into that lifestyle – it's exciting to be at the vanguard of a new movement. We have been working closely with the team at HIVE since we signed our partnership agreement with them to bring ENTA MINA to life which places community, and thoughtful design at the top of its product's agenda. 'ENTA MINA will bring a younger demographic to live, work and play in Ras Al Khaimah. Targeted tenants are aged 25-35 years old and they will even have the flexibility to work from the beach if they so wish. The multiplier effect of this is clear – it gives a space where ideas can turn into enterprises, which in turn helps to grow the wider economy.' Bass Ackermann, Founder of HIVE, elaborated by stating: 'ENTA was born from watching HIVE tenants grow into homeowners - people who still wanted the feeling of what we created, but in a place they could truly call their own. It addresses a market need for ready-made but authentic community. ENTA aims to speak to a new kind of homeowner - someone who values design, function, and feeling in equal measure. It's a brand grounded in creative integrity, but also built to perform, whether you're living in it or investing in it.' In May 2025 RAK Properties published its Q1 2025 financial results in which the Company recorded notable growth in revenue and profit, reflecting the strength of its operational performance and continued development momentum. In April 2025, RAK Properties commenced sales on is Anantara Mina Residences project – a community of 103 luxury apartments and villas, set along the waterfront of Hayat Island, Mina. About RAK Properties Founded in 2005 under the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, RAK Properties is a leading real estate developer committed to producing exceptional and sustainable destinations. Specialising in contemporary and meticulously crafted communities, RAK Properties integrates excellence, innovation, and nature to create enriching lifestyles in alignment with the aspirations of tomorrow's people. RAK Properties plays a pivotal role in achieving RAK Vision 2030, focusing on delivering economic, social, and environmental value, all aimed at enhancing lives and places, and contributing to the prosperous narrative of Ras Al Khaimah. Awards and recognitions Awarded 'Developer of the Year' 2023 by Construction Week Middle East. Bay Views Residences won the 'Best Residential Project' at the Design Middle East Awards 2023, where the residential development was recognized as the region's best design and architecture. Quattro Del Mar was awarded the Best Mixed-Used Project at the prestigious Pillars of Real Estate Awards 2024.
