QOOT Cluster proudly hosted the second edition of its esteemed Innovation Award, setting the stage for the recognition and support of the agri-food sector in Lebanon.
AFIA – A Testament to Innovation
Held at this year’s Horeca Event, the ceremony unfolded under the esteemed patronage of H.E. Mr. Georges Bouchikian, Lebanese Minister of Industry. Eminent guests also included H.E. Mr. Hans Peter van der Voude, Dutch Ambassador to Lebanon; Ms. Ettie Higgins, Deputy Representative of UNICEF in Lebanon; Mr. Maroun N. Chammas, Chairman & CEO of Berytech; and Engineer Nadine Khoury, President of the QOOT Cluster. The gathering was further embellished by the distinguished presence of experts from the economic, food, and agricultural sectors.
At its core, this award serves as a testament to innovation, honoring pioneering endeavors within the Lebanese agricultural and food landscape. It provides a platform for food manufacturers to showcase their ingenuity on a national scale. This year, the event hosted over 60 Lebanese companies, competing for recognition across seven distinct categories. Through social media channels, an impressive 23,872 individuals actively participated in the voting process, casting their verdict on the finest offerings in each category.
The Contributing Stakeholders
The panel of judges comprised prominent figures in the fields: Mr. Hassan Ezzeldine, Chairman of Gray Mackenzie Retail Group; Ms. Sally El Armaly Yacoub, Head of Food & Beverages at Fattal Group; Professor Mohammad Abiad from the esteemed American University of Beirut; Chef Maroun Chedid; and Ms. Amal Obeid, Adolescent and Youth Program Specialist at UNICEF Lebanon. The experts evaluated the different entries against their market relevance, product innovation, sustainability, and alignment with evolving consumer needs.
The Winners
The winners were announced during AFIA’s highlight event at HORECA, on April 18, 2024:
- Epicure Healthy Living – Black Garlic: UNICEF Sponsored Category – Sustainable Green and Innovative Award
- SOLER’S Crackers & More – Bites with Thyme: Baked and Snacks Category
- Malika for Trading – Marshmallow Made from Honey: Healthy Products Category
- Melqart’s Forest SARL – Corado Buffalo Sauce: Pantry Products Category
- Agreen Organics – Organic Lebanese Goat Kashkaval: Refrigerated & Chilled Products Category
- WATA Cider – Light Berries: Alcoholic Beverages Category
- Triana SARL – Tearapy Functional Tea: Non-Alcoholic Beverages Category
These exceptional products were honored with prestigious awards; A $3,000 research voucher generously sponsored by the American University of Beirut and QOOT Cluster, facilitating further advancements in the Laboratories for Environmental Agriculture and Food (LEAF). Furthermore, winners gained access to unparalleled marketing support from Gray Mackenzie Retail Group, exclusive opportunities for market share growth and market knowledge offered by Fattal Group, a complimentary one-year membership in QOOT Cluster, alongside a wide range of material prizes and the prospect of future collaborations with QOOT Cluster and its esteemed partners.
Forging Partnerships and Collaborations
In orchestrating this grand celebration of innovation, QOOT Cluster forged strategic partnerships with distinguished partners, including the American University of Beirut’s LEAF, Gray Mackenzie Retail Group, Fattal Group, and UNICEF, underscoring a collective commitment to fostering excellence and propelling the agri-food industry to greater heights.
By championing innovation and excellence, The QOOT Cluster Agrifood Innovation Award not only boosted Lebanon’s agricultural and food sectors, but also resonated on the global scene, enriching communities and fostering prosperity for generations to come.
