Cafè Barbera opens new outlet in Baghdad, Iraq

IRAQ – Italian coffeehouse and fast casual restaurant chain Cafè Barbera has opened its latest outlet in Jadriya Mall, Baghdad, Iraq as part of its aggressive expansion strategy.

The brand, which already has a presence in Iraq through four stores located in Sulaymaniyah and Erbil, is broadening its footprint across the region.

Café Barbera’s menu in the new outlet features a variety of Italian-inspired offerings, including Panini sandwiches, Mediterranean-style salads, light croissant breakfasts, Greek and Italian cheeses, fresh vegetables, pastries, spices, and dressings, bringing authentic Italian flavors to its diverse clientele.

This latest expansion is part of the coffeehouse’s broader strategy to aggressively penetrate new markets in the Middle East and Asia. Just one week before announcing its expansion into Iraq, the company revealed its partnership with Northern Border, aimed at opening new locations in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE.

Elio Barbera expressed enthusiasm about the venture, noting the company’s long-standing Italian coffee heritage, which spans 150 years. He also highlighted the importance of collaboration with area franchisees, noting that the company enjoys strong partnerships, which facilitate the growth process.

Although the new outlets will likely attract tourists, Thomas Eliopoulos, managing director of Northern Border, emphasized that the initial focus would be on serving the local community.

Eliopoulos shared that while there are plans to open Café Barbera locations in high-tourism areas, the priority is to first establish a strong local presence with initial locations. The company has ambitious growth plans, aiming to open 10 Café Barbera outlets in Ras Al Khaimah over the next decade.

Eliopoulos also explained how Northern Border distinguishes itself from regional competitors. The company has adopted a focused strategy by exclusively operating within Ras Al Khaimah, a move that helps them maintain a competitive edge.

They are leveraging new construction partnerships in the emirate to offer a unique approach to legacy multi-brand operators, which is seen as a strategic advantage.

The expansion into Iraq and Ras Al Khaimah follows Café Barbera’s recent growth in Southeast Asia. The coffeehouse chain, which opened its first stores in Indonesia and the Philippines, plans to open second locations in Jakarta and Manila.

Additionally, the brand is preparing to enter the Malaysian market with a store in Kuala Lumpur, further solidifying its presence in the region.

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