His resilience and determination propel him forward
Welcome to 5 MINUTES WITH, where you get to meet some of the people in Dubai who have not only made this great city and emirate their home but are also successful in business.
Taste Studio Catering is one such successful business.
Founded by Hitesh Sharma, it made a name for itself in the UAE’s bustling hospitality scene.
Hitesh, with his marketing chops and entrepreneurial spirit, launched Taste Studio in 2015, aiming to deliver top-notch culinary experiences to clients from all walks of life.
His journey into the food industry started early, thanks to his family’s restaurant business and later ventures in foodstuff trading and event management.
Despite facing financial scams and other hurdles, Hitesh’s tenacity led him to acquire an old catering service and transform it into the thriving Taste Studio Catering we know today.
Here’s your chance to meet Hitesh Sharma.
Can you tell us a little about your background and journey starting a business in Dubai?
My journey into entrepreneurship in Dubai began with a blend of ambition and adaptability.
Drawing from my background in marketing and a familial connection to the food industry, I ventured into various sectors like foodstuff trading and event management.
Despite facing setbacks, my resilience and determination propelled me forward.
This journey culminated in the acquisition of an old catering service company, marking the inception of Taste Studio Catering.
What led to your decision to start a business in Dubai, and how has the experience been so far?
The decision to embark on my entrepreneurial journey in Dubai was inspired by the city’s reputation as a global hub teeming with opportunities for innovation and progress.
Since launching my business, the experience has been deeply fulfilling and enlightening.
Navigating the dynamic market landscape of Dubai has not only allowed me to refine my entrepreneurial skills but has also offered valuable insights into the city’s steadfast support for business growth.
Starting from humble beginnings, I recognised and seized upon a promising opportunity, which has since evolved into a thriving venture.
Today, Taste Studio Catering humbly serves over 1,500 individuals in corporate settings daily, meticulously preparing meals in our personally owned 12,000 sqm state-of-the-art kitchen.
How has being an entrepreneur in Dubai influenced your connection to the community and your sense of belonging?
Every year during Ramadan, we prepare and serve 1000 meals per day, providing a direct opportunity to engage with and contribute to the community.
Our central kitchen is situated inside a labour camp, where witnessing firsthand the impact of our efforts has been both humbling and rewarding.
Collaborating with Emirates Red Crescent to serve freshly prepared meals on-site has fostered a sense of community and collaboration.
This annual experience, spanning six years of serving meals, has enriched my understanding of community dynamics and reinforced my commitment to making a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
Could you highlight someone in Dubai who has played a significant role in supporting your business journey, and what impact did they have?
My wife, Neha, has been a steadfast support throughout my business journey in Dubai.
Her encouragement and personal experience have been invaluable in navigating the challenges and opportunities of entrepreneurship in this dynamic city.
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From the initial decision to move here to her ongoing guidance, Neha has been a grounding force.
Her belief in our shared vision and dedication to our goals have significantly influenced my business trajectory, fostering growth and resilience.
Neha’s presence has been a constant source of strength, reinforcing our commitment to success and enriching our journey together as entrepreneurs in Dubai.
What do you appreciate most about conducting business in Dubai, and how does it contribute to your entrepreneurial journey?
What I appreciate most about doing business in Dubai is how the city reciprocates efforts toward good service and innovation.
Maintaining a focus on quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction has proven to be rewarding, as Dubai embraces and rewards such dedication.
With an unparalleled team and a passion for excellence, our company is well-positioned for ongoing success in the catering industry.
What common misconception about starting a business in Dubai would you like to dispel based on your experience?
One common misconception about starting a business in Dubai is the idea that success comes effortlessly.
While Dubai provides a favourable environment for entrepreneurship, my journey has taught me that sustainable growth requires dedication, perseverance, and strategic planning.
It’s important to debunk the notion of instant success and emphasize the value of hard work, resilience, and adaptability in navigating the competitive landscape.
At the heart of Taste Studio’s accomplishments lies our steadfast commitment to providing reliable service, ensuring that every client’s needs are met with precision and trustworthiness.
Share a memorable moment where you experienced the genuine hospitality and support of the Dubai community in your entrepreneurial endeavours.
During Ramadan each year, company representatives and individuals come together with their families to wholeheartedly donate and volunteer for our Ramadan initiative.
They cook, pack, and distribute iftar meal kits, creating a heart-warming atmosphere of unity and generosity.
It’s moments like these that remind me of the strong and compassionate network that exists in Dubai, continuously uplifting and aiding social and entrepreneurial endeavours.
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