At the best of times, running a business is an uphill battle, an endless struggle to innovate ideas that put you ahead of the competition and continually turn a profit. In a post-COVID-19 world, however, those challenges have not only grown in scale but morphed into something entirely unrecognizable. In this series, we talk to expat-entrepreneurs and find out what they’re doing to remain successful in business, and happy at home.
For a select few of us, the prospect of moving to a new city and country comes with the unexpected and unbridled joy of finding our soulmates. In cities we fall in love with, we lose ourselves and find ourselves in life-long bonds with the partner of our dreams. That was certainly the case for Annayev Muhammed, co-founder of Georgia’s and Turkish Feasts. He fell in love with Beijing and in return, Beijing led him to his wife and now mother of his child. What’s more, the fantasy was complete with a successful business to boot.
But what happens when a global pandemic threatens the family and success you have worked so long to build? And the city you have come to love and call your own cannibalizes your source of livelihood in a bid to keep the rest of the city’s inhabitants safe?
Muhammed shares his experiences on surviving the ravages of COVID-19 and how this experience might have influenced how he sees the city he loves.
Annayev Muhammed and his family
How long has the business been in operation?
Georgia’s Feast just had its fifth anniversary. The Turkish Feast will soon celebrate the first anniversary.
How long have you and your family been in China and what made you decide to move this far East?
I have been living In China for the past ten years. I met my better half here, and have been grateful for China and Beijing for every happy moment I have experienced here.
What were you and your family’s initial reactions when COVID-19 first hit the news?
Once the COVID-19 started we were in Beijing, and we have witnessed how professionally local government has managed the situation. We didn’t have any panic but felt for patients, doctors, and people in Wuhan, who have been hit hard by COVID-19.
What were your expectations as far as the virus and its effect on daily life and business in Beijing?
At first, it was scary. No one knew what to expect next. The statistics of new cases weren’t looking very optimistic and of course, there was a big fear in the food and beverage industry. The sentiment was tourism won’t recover from it.
What has been the reality for you and your family during the peak of the virus?
Turkish and Georgian Feast were open all the time during the epidemic period and for me, the scariest moment was coming back to my wife and child after spending all day in the restaurants. Despite all the measurements, the risk was still high.
How, if at all, has your business been affected by the current situation?
Of course, we have been affected a lot during the past two months. Our revenue has decreased by up to 90% and even now it’s hard to predict what might happen next. Yet we are hoping that dark times are in the past and soon we will be able to get back to normal.
What form of support have you received from the expat community here in Beijing, for both your family’s and business’ wellbeing?
We must admit that the expat community of Beijing has been very supportive during these hard times. We want to thank all our customers for the support they gave us during the past two months. We have been working hard on the protective measures to ensure the safety and health of our crew and our customers.
Do you believe the current situation will permanently change the face of business in Beijing? If so, why and how? If not, then why?
We are hoping that it won’t, but even if it will, I strongly believe that all the changes are coming for the best. Of course, it might take some time for the customers to get back to the more ‘outgoing’ dining style that we had before COVID-19, but the increased amount of deliveries is also not a bad sign. Now people can enjoy our food not only in the restaurants but also at their places of work or homes.
As the city continues to return to business as normal, what are some of the plans you have set in place for your business to ensure it is not adversely affected by such an unexpected situation in the future?
Despite the instability and difficulties, we have been continuously improving. Health and safety measurements, new dishes, and training for our crew are just a small part of our daily routine. We are doing our best to make sure that our clients enjoy and feel safe in our restaurants.
As a business owner/professional, what has been your biggest takeaway from this period of uncertainty?
You always need to be ready for the storm, even when the sea looks peaceful.
As a parent and partner, what have you learned from or about your family that will help shape your family life in the future?
As a parent and partner and a man, I have learned very well that family is the top priority and I need to make sure that my family is safe and protected.
Has the current situation deterred you from continuing to be a part of the business landscape in Beijing or are you here to stay?
I am definitely here to stay since Beijing has become my home and the most comfortable place for me.
What advice would you give to other business owners in Beijing at this time?
Brace yourselves, the winter has passed, hopefully.
How can other expat families show their support for expat business owners in Beijing?
They can help by recommending us to friends and colleagues, being part of the special deals and leaving pieces of advice and comments. For us, every comment is valuable and helps us get better.
Any words of encouragement or hope for the international community as a whole in Beijing?
Beijing has been a perfect host for the expat community for decades. I think it’s our turn to show support to this wonderful city, follow the regulations of the local government, wear a mask and stay safe you all.
Photos: Annayev Muhammed
