Luxury Hoteliers Magazine 2nd Quarter 2019 | Page 37

While addressing the Global Dubai Tea Forum 2018, market researcher Huzaifa Nalwala said global per capita consumption of prepared tea is one of the few beverage categories expected to grow through 2021. Per capita consumption of carbonated beverages was 30.6 liters while tea consumption per capita stood at 35.2 liters and is expected to rise to 37.7 liters by 2021. This increase in popularity means luxury hotels should review their current tea offerings if they wish to capitalize on this tea trend. To exceed guest expectations, luxury hospitality needs to focus on specialty teas to see a surge both in profits and positive guest experience. It’s no longer enough to offer guests the same blends available to them at any convenience store. However, finding a luxury tea supplier is just the beginning. What should you know if you’re developing an afternoon tea program at your hotel? This is a trend steeped in tradition that Forbes highlighted as having a major modern comeback. “As people seek out more innovative and engaging dining experiences, creative interpretations of this time- honored pastime are becoming increasingly desirable,” Gabrielle Jammal, the Baccarat Hotel’s tea sommelier, told Forbes. Other questions arise when trying to transform your tea offerings into a more interactive and personalized experience. Will your staff be educated on ingredients and nutritional value? How will you ensure your supplier carries out ethical and sustainable practices? Who will train your front-of-staff workers? ILHA 37