Unilever launches first Lipton T Junction store

The tea lounge at Emirates Towers is the first of a Dh20 million expansion that will see 10 outlets opened in the UAE by franchisee Food Fund LLC over the next two years, including two in Dubai within the next six months. Alex Andarakis, food and beverage marketing director, Unilever Arabia and Lipton brand director, NAMET (North Africa, Middle East and Turkey) said: "Lipton T Junction is opening in the heart of one of our most important regions. With over 80per cent market share and 90 per cent household penetration, the Middle East is where we have the highest concentration of Lipton people.''

T Junction was created by Thomas Klein International., the Dubai-based F&B consultancy that has been appointed master franchiser. Managing partner Daniel During, said: "T Junction has been conceived with the spirit of a business proposition so as to satisfy the requirements of regional investors, superior positioning and excellent return on investment.''

Thomas Klein Intl. has developed hospitality solutions for clients such TECOM, Dubai Media City, the Dubai Development and Investment Authority and the Abu Dhabi Ministry of Higher Education.

Lipton's Dubai plant exports to regional and global markets in Europe, Africa and the Mideast, including France, Russia and Turkey.