Riyaaz Amlani takes the helm at the National Restaurant Association of India as President

The National Restaurant Association of India has elected Riyaaz Amlani as new President.The founder, MD, CEO and Chief Visionary of Impresario Entertainment & Hospitality Pvt. Ltd, Riyaaz is the youngest President in the organization’s history. Given his exceptional credentials (Best Restaurateur, Time Out Food Awards 2011) and his aggressive entrepreneurial spirit (7 successful brands and over 39 outlets across India), interesting times are surely ahead for the NRAI.“The Food Services Industry in India is a 48 billion dollar/ INR 250,000 crore business - seven times the size of the hotel business and the third largest service industry after insurance and banking. I’m deeply honoured and privileged to be part of that and to have the opportunity to give back to the industry that has given so much to me. Instinct tells me that our industry is ripe with possibilities for growth on all fronts - especially where smaller, stand-alone restaurants are concerned. Being the voice of our fraternity is a phenomenal opportunity, and it’s one that I’m excited and resolute to exploit to the best of my abilities”, said, RIyaaz.Samir Kuckreja who stepped down as the President at the NRAI’s AGM said, “I have had an exciting and fulfilling tenure heading NRAI for 5 years. I have successfully spearheaded the Association’s key initiatives including publishing the “India Food Services Report 2013”, changes in licensing norms and increasing the membership base by creating regional chapters.”“Mr Kuckreja’s efforts has given the NRAI a stronger voice in the industry and government today\', said, Riyaaz. ‘I’m keen to build on the reputation and respect that he’s garnered. As they say, onwards and upwards.”Riyaaz was earlier Vice President of the NRAI, a role which granted him perspective on the industry from a bird’s eye view and the means to formulate a strategy for the future of the industry and the NRAI.