The demand for Halal is registering sharp growth, encouraging many exporting countries including Australia and New Zealand to step up their diplomatic and marketing efforts to increase their share of the market.
New Zealand Lamb exports account for 40% of the world market and 95% of all New Zealand lamb exports are now Halal, while non-Halal production is being phased out.
The availability of Halal food, from fresh meat to value added or processed food, is increasingly visible throughout the country.
Butcheries, small stores, supermarkets and hypermarkets are gradually selling Halal food products, although this typically started in the Muslim-majority areas.
The dynamics of the global Halal food market includes growth in Muslim population, rising income in primary markets and increasing demand for safe, high quality food in primary markets.
Such growth has also promoted the fast food industry but operating a fast food outlet can be exciting and exacting at the same time.
Country Chicken & Pizza Express Franchisee in Papatoetoe (563 Great South Road) Hanif Patel believes that hard work will always provide rewards.
He was not wrong. Since he started in December 2010, he has had no time to look back. Business has grown steadily with satisfied customers returning to the store for its ambiance, service and of course quality food.
“I often hear customers saying, ‘Once you have tried, you will love it.’ It is such comments that encourage us to seek improvements all the time,” he said.
Mr Patel is confident that his store will continue to grow and attract more clientele.
“The location is great, with a clean and hygienic environment. There is plenty of space for car park. In addition, customers have the advantage of the Gasoline Alley Station within the complex,” he said.
“As your car gets filled, you could have a taste of the best fried chicken, which is less greasy than other products. All our products are Halal certified.”
According to Mr Patel, the store uses lean meat to prepare healthy kebab meals such as rice on lamb, chicken and mixed falafel with salad.
“Customers also have the choice of Indian curries, Turkish delights, Pita bread, vegetarian falafel, mild spices and Middle Eastern sweets. We also offer New Zealand kebabs,” he said.
Country Chicken & Pizza Express Papatoetoe is open seven days from 1030 am to 1130 pm, while the Gasoline Alley Station is open from 6 am to 1130 pm.
