CULINARY GIFT STORE franchisor Oil & Vinegar has laid out plans to expand into the Middle East, granting a licence to the Al Tayer Group, one of the largest retail conglomerates in the United Arab Emirates. A family-owned business, the Al Tayer Group was founded in 1979 and operates in retail and distribution for global brands in the automobile, fashion, jewellery, perfume, cosmetics, publishing, business and service industries.

Oil & Vinegar originated in the Netherlands in the late 1990s and its range of high quality food and non-food products includes oils, vinegars, pastas, cookbooks and cooking accessories. Most of the food products come from the Mediterranean region, but an increasing proportion are being sourced from South Africa, Australia and the USA. The brand has over 80 stores worldwide, including a recent launch in the USA. The Al Tayer Group aims to open at least 10 stores in the Middle East over the next five years.