Ahmed Bayoumi has taken on the task of leading Global Food Industries (GFI) and International Beverage and Filling Industries (IBFI) into a new era of growth as its CEO. Since joining GFI and IBFI in February 2020, Ahmed has since been instrumental in putting a new team of F&B industry specialists together to drive and propel GFI and IBFI’s future growth objectives. And, while Ahmed will be mainly responsible in providing the right direction, his leadership skills are founded on the principles of teamwork and in creating an ideal atmosphere that inspires others to realize their full potential.
“My career journey has always rested on three pillars,” Ahmed revealed. “One, building a strong team – business success is never done by one person. It is the team that brings the business forward. Two, articulating clear plans for the future, and then the third is relentless focus on execution. This combination has served me extremely well in delivering outstanding results for shareholders.”
In order to achieve GFI and IBFI’s growth objectives, Ahmed identifies certain opportunities and focus areas of the team moving forward.
“While the COVID-19 pandemic was a shock to everyone, the great news is that there is a renewed excitement and focus on domestic supply of food and food security along with lots of opportunities lined up especially within retail due to increase in home food consumption. In 2021 we expect a recovery in the HORECA channel with the expansion of the vaccination program in the region, and the advent of Expo. I also see the food industry being more focused on healthier propositions and move more into the health and wellness offering in terms of products this has helped the frozen category due to its health benefits” Ahmed explained. We are also working on introducing plant based proteins under Al Areesh Brand, As well as expanding our sugar free product range in beverages that includes Soda innovations, expanded pack range of Water, and 100% Juice products. Finally in snacking we are looking to expand our product portfolio and enter new categories during the course of 2021.
“In terms of widening our reach, we are looking at strengthening our presence in KSA, Oman and Kuwait in the GCC, by exploring possibilities of investing in manufacturing facilities or reinforcing our distribution network,” Ahmed added.
“First and foremost, our focus is to make the highest quality products at good value for money to the consumer because that is what touches the lives of the millions in the region. And now that we have the right people in place and clear plans for growing the business, I am extremely confident that GFI & IBFI are on the path to solid consistent growth”