As a number of local businesses increasingly specialise, Uniplural Group is charting a different course, embracing new opportunities and exploring diverse industries with confidence. Known initially as Apex Group and with its roots deeply embedded in care and educational services, Uniplural has recently diversified into the hospitality sector with the launch of Covo, a high-end dining establishment in Malta.

This strategic move marks a significant shift for the Group, as Charmaine Montesin, CEO of Uniplural Group, explains while discussing the vision behind this expansion. Uniplural Group's journey began 12 years ago with a focus on care services, but as Charmaine explains, the Group has always been ready to explore new avenues.

‘We started with care and ventured into other areas like services, childcare, and even established an academy. We were ready to diversify and step into industries that were not previously in our portfolio,’ she said.

The transition into hospitality, particularly the restaurant industry, is seen as a natural progression for the Group. ‘Hospitality, much like care, is about creating an experience for people. It’s about providing not just a service, but a holistic experience,’ Charmaine explains.

The success of their boutique hotel, which gained a strong reputation, spurred the Group to further explore the hospitality industry. The opening of Covo is proof of their commitment to expanding within this space, complementing their existing hospitality business.

Malta’s restaurant scene is vibrant and competitive, but Covo aims to carve out a unique niche by offering a dining experience that appeals to both locals and tourists. Located in Birzebbuġa, Covo is positioned as a middle- to high-class restaurant that offers a sensory experience. The Group has invested heavily in both the infrastructure and the people who run the restaurant, ensuring that the high standards Uniplural is known for are maintained.

‘We want to give an experience in Covo—not only through the good quality food by a talented chef but also through the ambience, the curated music playlist, and the overall environment. When we do something, we do it right and to the highest standard. Covo is no exception,’ Charmaine affirms.

One of the standout features of Covo is its cocktail menu, which has been specially crafted to complement the dishes on offer. This attention to pairing drinks with food further enhances the dining experience, making Covo a place where customers feel they are getting value for their money.

Maintaining high standards is critical in the restaurant industry, and Uniplural has taken significant steps to ensure that Covo delivers on its promise of quality.

‘We are adamant about having the best ingredients on our menu, ordering fresh produce almost daily,’ Charmaine explains. The restaurant’s menu, which prominently features fish, also includes meat dishes with a unique twist courtesy of our Peruvian chef, adding an extra layer of surprise to the Mediterranean cuisine.’

To uphold these standards, Uniplural has enlisted the help of consultants and marketers to refine the Covo concept, ensuring that it aligns with the Group’s broader vision.

‘We invest in our people and bring in experts to advise us on moving forward. Together with the team in the kitchen, we are delivering the experience we want to provide at Covo.’

With Covo, Uniplural aims to make a lasting impact on Malta’s dining culture. Located in a popular summer destination, the restaurant is designed to be a year-round attraction, offering a cosy and inviting space even during the winter months. Charmaine expressed hope that Covo will be recognised as a top-tier dining destination in Malta, known for offering both value and an exceptional dining experience to all.

The success of Uniplural’s first boutique hotel and the promising start of Covo have set the stage for further expansion in the hospitality sector.

‘The sky’s the limit with the Group, and we are always looking to grow. We hope that Covo will be a stepping stone into the hospitality business, where we can continue to expand and innovate,’ Charmaine says.

As Uniplural continues to diversify, the Group remains committed to maintaining the high standards that have defined its success. Covo, with its blend of quality, ambience, and innovative cuisine, is poised to become a shining example of what Uniplural can achieve in the hospitality industry.

‘For those eager to experience COVO, we promise a fantastic dining experience. For everyone else, stay tuned—COVO is just the beginning,’ Charmaine attests.