Introduction:
I am Saiyyed Sahil Ahmad, Founder of ALBAIK in India, sit down to write this blog, I am filled with a mix of emotions - nostalgia, gratitude, and excitement. It's hard to believe that it's been 25 years since I embarked on a journey to bring a taste of Arabia to India. Today, ALBAIK is a household name, synonymous with delicious and authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. But, it wasn't always like this. In this blog, I want to take you through my journey, the challenges I faced, and the lessons I learned along the way.
The Inspiration:
Growing up in India, I was always fascinated by the rich cultural heritage of the Middle East. My love for Arabic cuisine was ignited during my college days, when I had the opportunity to travel to Dubai. The flavors, the aromas, and the hospitality of the people left an indelible mark on me. I knew then that I wanted to bring a piece of that magic back to India.
The Early Days:
When I registered our Albaik brand in India in 1999, it was a daunting task. I had no experience in the food industry, and the concept of Middle Eastern cuisine was relatively new to India. I faced skepticism from friends, family, and even potential investors. But, I was driven by my passion and conviction. I spent countless hours researching recipes, experimenting with flavors, and perfecting my cooking techniques.
The First Outlet:
Our first outlet opened in Lucknow in 2009. It was a humble beginning, with a small team and a limited menu. But, we were determined to make a mark. We focused on using high-quality ingredients, traditional cooking methods, and providing exceptional customer service. The response was overwhelming. People loved our food, and word-of-mouth publicity helped us grow rapidly.
Challenges and Lessons:
The journey wasn't without its challenges. We faced stiff competition from established brands, and there were times when we struggled to maintain consistency in our food quality. But, each setback was an opportunity to learn and improve. I learned the importance of innovation, adaptation, and teamwork. I also realized that customer feedback is the most valuable resource for any business.
Expansion and Growth:
Today, Albaik has 150 plus outlets across the World. We've expanded our menu to include a range of Arabic, Lebanese, and Mediterranean dishes. We've also introduced catering services, online ordering, and delivery options to cater to the growing demand. Our team has grown to 200 plus members, and we're proud to have created a family-like atmosphere within the organisation.
Giving Back:
As Albaik grew, I realized that our success wasn't just about serving food; it was about making a positive impact on the community. We've initiated several CSR initiatives, including food donations to local charities, supporting education for underprivileged children, and promoting sustainable practices in our operations.
The Future:
As I look to the future, I'm excited about the possibilities. We're planning to expand to new countries, introduce new menu items, and explore opportunities in the international market. But, our core values will remain the same - a commitment to quality, customer satisfaction, and community development.
Conclusion:
My journey with Albaik has been a rollercoaster ride of emotions, challenges, and triumphs. It's a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and hard work. I'm grateful to our customers, team members, and partners who have supported us every step of the way. As we continue to grow, I hope to inspire others to chase their dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem.
Thank you for reading my story. I hope you've enjoyed it, and I look forward to serving you at Albaik soon!
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