Italian-Lebanese entrepreneur Georges El Badaoui has announced that his company will launch the first-ever healthy beverage derived from the finest types of Arabic dates in Egyptian and international markets at the start of the new year.
The “Seven Dates” drink, produced in Italy since 2016, is a healthy and balanced product set to debut in Egypt in partnership with a well-established Egyptian company renowned for its distribution expertise since 1961. This company has received both local and international awards. El Badaoui emphasized that the Egyptian market was chosen due to its strategic potential and promising prospects.
In a press interview, El Badaoui explained that the name “Seven Dates” is inspired by deep-rooted Arabic heritage.
It is worth noting that Georges El Badaoui has a wealth of experience in innovation, having established several successful brands. “Seven Dates” represents a success story that transcends merely launching a new product. It stands as a testament to the powerful blend of tradition, innovation, and passion, creating a positive impact on the world.
During the interview, El Badaoui stated:
“In my opinion, ‘Seven Dates’ marks an Italian-Arab revolution in beverages made from dates. It will conquer global markets with the flavor of authentic Arabic heritage.”
His Italian company, VitalyV, created the world’s first date-based drink, combining tradition and technology to deliver a groundbreaking natural product. Initially developed in 2016, “Seven Dates” was launched in European markets in 2019. However, its growth was temporarily slowed by the COVID-19 pandemic. By 2024, the product rebounded strongly, producing 300 million cans annually and solidifying its presence in Egypt, Nigeria, and beyond.
On a global scale, “Seven Dates” has gained popularity in the Arab world and earned numerous awards, including the Gold Award for Best Natural Plant-Based Beverage in London in 2024.
El Badaoui highlighted his commitment to social responsibility through an initiative called “Planting the Future.” For every container sold, “Seven Dates” pledges to plant 30 palm trees, contributing to reforestation and supporting local communities. While the company hoped to implement this project in Palestine, current political challenges have delayed it, though they remain hopeful for future improvements to support this resilient nation.
In Egypt, “Seven Dates” has partnered with Al-Wafaa for Soft Drinks, led by Haj Salah Saad El-Dowaik, emphasizing their shared values of health and quality assurance. El Badaoui further noted that Egypt serves as both a strategic market and a benchmark for the Arab world.
When asked about the inspiration behind “Seven Dates”, El Badaoui said:
“The idea stems from the desire to create a natural and healthy drink inspired by rich traditions and the benefits of dates. It offers a safe alternative to harmful soft drinks laden with additives, artificial colours, and preservatives – toxins that affect generations. As the philosopher Ludwig Feuerbach once said, ‘We are what we eat.’”
He explained how combining natural ingredients with advanced technology made “Seven Dates” a unique product suitable for all demographics, including children, the elderly, and pregnant women, due to its positive effects. “It is made for us, our children, and generations to come.”
Regarding future goals, El Badaoui revealed that he has signed numerous contracts for product distribution and is planning to localize technology to develop efficient marketing systems across the Arab world. He also plans to expand to promising markets like Indonesia.
On the topic of competition, El Badaoui acknowledged the risk of imitation, especially after winning global awards and securing a leading position in the beverage industry. With a smile, he recalled a childhood chant he and his friends used to cheer for their favourite team, which now humorously serves as his mantra:
“Seven Dates and nothing else!”
The Secret Behind Success:
In discussing the essence of success, entrepreneur Georges El Badaoui shared his insights:
“Diligent work, honesty, boundless ambition, and faith in the ability to turn dreams into reality – these are the foundations of enduring success. This success thrives on the trust consumers place in products that align with their nature and personal values. Those who plant love in their choices will reap trust from consumers.”
Although the interview concluded, the journey of success continues for this innovative and ambitious businessman. Georges El Badaoui has achieved remarkable milestones while staying deeply connected to his Arab roots at every step.
Discussion about this post