Fast-Food boom hits Bahrain

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com

Email: editor@newsofbahrain.com

Bahraini youth are increasingly flocking to quick- service dining options, spurred by a surge in both local and international restaurant chains.

According to a recent report by Mordor Intelligence, the fast-food and quick-service restaurant (QSR) sector is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.98% from 2017 to 2029.

This growth highlights a rising preference among younger consumers for fast and convenient dining options.

The report reveals that QSRs are leading Bahrain’s food service industry, with full-service restaurants and cafés trailing behind.

The kingdom now hosts over a hundred American restaurant franchises, including popular names like Five Guys, Texas Roadhouse, Burger King, and Starbucks.

The rise of cloud kitchens, expected to see a CAGR of 4.91% during the forecast period, is driven by increased internet access and a growing demand for online food delivery.

Advances in point-of-sale (POS) systems and kitchen display systems (KDS) are streamlining operations and reducing delays.

The café and beverage sector is also thriving, with cafés and juice bars representing 86.48% of outlets in 2022, and cafés alone making up 67.21%.

The COVID-19 pandemic boosted demand for ready-to-eat meals, and leading chains like Starbucks and Costa Coffee are capitalising on this trend.

From 2019 to 2022, the average number of orders from cafés in Bahrain rose by 11.24%, reflecting a surge in coffee consumption.

Upscale cafés have responded with expanded menus, featuring specialty drinks and international pastries, which has increased the average order value.

Meanwhile, cloud kitchens are offering competitively priced dishes like harees and kebabs.

Quick-service restaurants remain a favourite among Bahraini consumers, known for their convenience and value.

Recent trends indicate a growing interest in mid-range quick-service options that offer a diverse range of dining experiences at reasonable prices.