(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) Landmark Hospitality on Wednesday announced its acquisition of UK-based cupcake specialist for the Middle East and unveiled an investment plan of more than Dh36 million for expansion.
Offering a signature range of colourful and customisable cakes and cupcakes, the concept has commenced operations in five stores across the UAE, with plans to expand the network across 14 locations in the UAE by June next year.
Candelite, a specialty confectionery concept and a division of Landmark Hospitality, has entered into an exclusive franchise agreement with Candy Cakes, Landmark Hospitality chief operating officer Sanjay Bahl revealed at a news conference. Bahl declined to provide the value of the deal.
Candy Cakes offers over 15 varieties of standard cupcakes that can be tailor-made to individual preferences at price points ranging from Dh12 for basic cupcakes to Dh30 for customised options. Candy Cakes is also set to add sugar-free and gluten-free versions of its products to its exhaustive range.
According to research by Euromonitor International, the Middle East confectionary market has been enjoying a 20 per cent year-on-year growth over the past few years and is predicted to continue at the same rate until 2015 on the back of sustained demand for the sweet treats in the region.
The confectionary market recorded more than 90 per cent growth during the past six year, Candelite business head Manish Jeswani said at the news conference.
Jeswani said: "The Candelite experience is dedicated to infusing fun into the lives of our customers and we believe that the integration of Candy Cakes into our brand adds a unique offering to our growing confectionery portfolio."
Established in 2006, Candy Cakes was conceptualised on a dream to bring something special and innovative to the café and cake world. Complete with eye-popping icing colours and elaborate edible toppers, the mouthwatering novelty cakes, offered by the UK-based cupcake giant, perfectly compliment any celebration or mood.
"An extremely popular format in the UK, Candy Cakes is a fresh take on cupcakes and it is our endeavour to make this delightful concept even more accessible to cake lovers. Bringing Candy Cakes on board marks Candelite's foray into fresh foods and cupcakes, and also marks a significant milestone in terms of business growth," Jeswani said.
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