The business plans to expand across the UAE and beyond with eight new locations identified for 2025, as the company shifts from its historically cautious growth strategy to a more aggressive expansion plan.
The South African-founded hospitality group, which currently operates 15 restaurants in South Africa, 12 outlets in the UAE and one in London, will open its first location in Saudi Arabia this September, Founder and CEO Natasha Sideris told Arabian Business.
“We’ve had very slow and steady growth, few people working in an office. Now we have an army. I think we’re ready to get into another gear and speed up a little bit,” Sideris said during an interview at the group’s Nala concept in Dubai’s Alserkal Avenue.
The company plans to establish Tashas branded cafes in previously untapped Emirates markets including Ras Al Khaimah, Nad Al Sheba, Al Ain and Sharjah. Additionally, the group will introduce Arlecchino by tashas, an Italian-inspired licensed concept in Cape Town.
Outside the UAE, the expansion includes bringing its upscale beach dining concept Bungalo34 to Ras Al Khaimah and Avli by tashas in Bahrain, while South Africa will see five additional locations.
“We will probably end up with doing five or six [openings] this year,” Sideris clarified, noting that while eight locations are identified, the actual rollout may be more measured.
