AS the industry’s first to launch an exciting initiative to support passionate local food and beverage (F&B) entrepreneurs, Marriott International unveiled a new platform for entrepreneurs to open and manage their dream restaurant/bar based on a concept they have created in one of their premier hotels. The “BANG!” global initiative will have its debut in Asia at the JW Marriott Hotel Shenzhen this December.

    “BANG!” depicts a sense of energy, impact, dynamism and power, whereas the Chinese translation “棒!” (also pronounced “bang”) creates synergy while carrying the meaning of “excellence” and “greatness.” The campaign’s strap line aptly goes, “You have the idea, we have the space — bring your F&B vision to life and make a noise!”

    A chance of a lifetime opportunity, Marriott International is calling all budding F&B entrepreneurs in Shenzhen and Guangzhou who aspire to achieve and succeed to submit their innovative ideas with a short description and one-minute video at www.startwithabang-sz.com until Dec. 30.

    Submissions with the most originality and creativity that reflect the local food culture markets will be invited to submit detailed business plans between Jan. 5 and 14. Business plans will be judged according to their fulfillment of all submission requirements, completeness, soundness and feasibility. After signing a contract, the winning entrepreneur may start the project with extensive support and resources from Marriott International and the JW Marriott Hotel Shenzhen team, including regulatory and legal assistance, manning and pricing models.

    Professional F&B advice will be given on best practices and common pitfalls in the development of new concepts, along with procurement advice. Social media and marketing expertise will assist the entrepreneur to establish the right communication strategy in building anticipation for the concept and help establish brand identity. The new concept will officially be open for business March 1.

    On the occasion of the announcement, Ralph Frehner, vice president of food and beverage operations, Asia Pacific at Marriott International, said, “The BANG! campaign in Shenzhen is the kick-off of the global initiative to support and nurture local F&B entrepreneurs.” (SD News)