Food For Thought

Having owned and managed multiple dining brands, Mateo Ramos, CEO of Foodvest Holding, has had an illustrious career over the years. He talks about future plans, food industry trends and his mantra for life!

Foodvest Holding has made significant strides under your leadership over the past six years. How have your brands fared this year and what sets them apart from the competition?
Over the past six years, our brands have consistently excelled and this year is no exception. Our success is anchored in our commitment to two core pillars: food and OUR people. We prioritise nurturing ambitious talents who embrace change, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. On the food side, we take pride in preparing everything from scratch in our own commissary. By avoiding pre-packaged mixes and processed foods, we focus on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. This approach not only provides exceptional value but also builds strong brand loyalty and lasting connections with our customers.

Can you share any upcoming projects or expansions that you’re particularly excited about?
We are currently focussed on expanding our operations both locally and regionally. This July, we began construction on Caribou Coffee in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, transitioning to a fresh food concept that entirely eliminates pre-packaged sandwiches and salads. We’re also excited to introduce freshly squeezed juices to our menu, alongside our signature Caribou coffee drinks. Our commitment to sourcing ingredients locally, with an emphasis on organic options whenever feasible, aligns seamlessly with our long-term vision of becoming the region’s premier purveyor of brands that prioritise quality and community engagement. We are also developing a new, upscale café concept that will offer a global dining experience, taking guests on a culinary journey around the world.

What cutting-edge food technologies or trends do you believe will redefine the food industry in the coming years and how is Foodvest positioning itself to be at the forefront of these changes?
I believe that the future of the food industry lies in sustainability and transparency. Technologies that enable a more organic and verticalised supply chain [in which a company or group of companies controls multiple stages of the food supply chain, from farm to final product] will be game changers. At Foodvest, we’re committed to adopting these innovations to ensure that we not only meet consumer expectations but also lead the way in providing fresh, high-quality food that connects with our community’s values.

What is your advice to young entrepreneurs who want to enter this industry?
To young entrepreneurs, I would say focus on building genuine relationships with your team and your customers. Embrace change and be ready to innovate. Understand the importance of quality ingredients and the value they bring to your brand. Stay connected with your local community, as building a loyal customer base is essential for long-term success.

Among other things, you’re also a motivational speaker. How did you get into this field and what’s your mantra for leading a successful and fulfilling life?
I got into motivational speaking as a way to share my experiences and inspire others in the industry. My mantra is simple: Lead a purpose-driven life – be authentic, pursue excellence and make an impact. Success is about creating something meaningful with your own hands and motivating others to do the same. It’s about embracing challenges, fostering a positive mindset and building a community around shared values. That’s what leads to a fulfilling life, both personally and professionally. ✤