C. Group in the spotlight:
award winner Entrepreneur of the year at the Culinary Innovators 2024.

Dimitri Beckers, owner of the C. Group, was honored with the prestigious title of 'Entrepreneur of the Year' at our Culinary Innovators 2024 event. With over 30 years of experience in hospitality, Beckers has built an impressive empire of around 15 unique restaurant concepts, each with its own distinct identity. What unites them all is their focus on hospitality and a strong vision for creating memorable guest experiences.

Focus on the future: new concepts and challenges

As an entrepreneur, Beckers is always looking one step ahead. "I'm constantly working on new ideas and concepts," he says. "Especially in these rapidly changing times, it's crucial to keep innovating. We're currently exploring the feasibility of several new ventures, both in Belgium and abroad."

His plans for the future aren’t just about launching new projects but also improving the efficiency of his existing businesses. Beckers remains committed to investing in customer experience, from the interior to the service.

Overcoming the biggest business challenge

Beckers identifies rising costs as his biggest challenge so far, particularly high wage expenses and the impact of the pandemic on the hospitality sector. "The past few years have required a lot of hard work to stay in business, which called for creative solutions," he explains. Through a flexible staffing approach, smart investments, and efficient cost management, he has succeeded in making his company stronger than ever.

Innovation in hospitality: passion and forward-thinking

For Beckers, innovation is a constant driving force. "You always need to find ways to stand out," he says. "I often find inspiration abroad, where I visit different hospitality venues to experience their atmosphere and approach, then adapt those insights to what works in our market." Within his team, he also encourages innovation by giving employees the freedom to contribute ideas and training them through C Group’s in-house academy, C.academy.

Tips for future Culinary Innovators

Beckers offers valuable advice to future Culinary Innovators participants. "Authenticity is key. Develop a strong, unique concept that aligns with your vision, and stay true to yourself." He addresses the importance of taking risks: "You can't be successful without taking risks. If something feels right, follow that instinct and go for it."

He also advises entrepreneurs always to keep pushing forward and investing. "In hospitality, standing still is falling behind. Keep renewing your concept, stay innovative, and make sure to continuously invest in the quality of your business and your team."

With his attention to detail, strong vision for hospitality, and willingness to take bold steps, Dimitri Beckers remains an inspiration in the industry and worthy of the Entrepreneur of the Year Award.

Now, more than 30 years later, the group includes: The Century, the HasHotel, Maison Mathis, Trentanove, Bar Bouffe, bistronomy Odiel, the restaurant Mia mensa, but also the event hotspot Het Cordaat and Atelier V for catering. Also the Corda bar and Corda Cuisine, and a chain of hospital cafeterias.’