RETAIL PEOPLE MAGAZINE ISSUE 29 – ROAD TO RECOVERY

ROAD TO RECOVERY

Through this unique, ‘Together through challenging times,’ strategy, Times Square Center worked with its tenants to become a shining example of how businesses can work together to create positive change.

Featuring:

Times Square Center Management Team

P10

MALL OF DILMUNIA Retail Is On Its Way To Recovery

P12

SOUQ7

Enhancing Experiences, Improving Lives

P18

DESIGN INTERNATIONAL

Architecture That Brings People Together

CONTENTS CONTENT

CONTENTS

18 14

05 WELCOME REMARKS ON THE COVER 06 Times Square Centre – A Rare Example of

Retail Growth Even During Challenging Times

Featuring: Times Square Center Management Team

SHOPPING CENTRE UPDATE

43 Honoring Gregory Vogt School (GVS) Graduates

10 Retail Is On Its Way To Glory

NEWS BRIEF

12 Enhancing Experiences, Improving Lives!

45 A K-Pop Weekend to Remember: The

14 The Birthplace of Saudi Arabia – The Future

16 Mall of Muscat – On a Clear Path to

Nationals by 2026

SPECIAL FEATURE

UAE’s GMG Aims to Double Workforce by 2025 with Global Strategy

of Retail

Recovery

18 Architecture That Brings People Together FEATURED ARTICLES 21 Innovation & The Road to Recovery 22 Dubai Expo 2021: A Celebration of

Christian Baldonanza Digital Media & Innovation Manager

connect@mecsc.org

Justin Espiritu

Relationship and Business Development Manager publishing@mecsc.org

Innovation and Recovery with BRANDS

24 Wingstop Targets Middle East Markets 26 Retail: Back to Basics 28 Experiential Retail: Repositioning Saudi

Arabia’s Retail Sector

31 How Big Data Will Help Retail Real Estate

Achieve Success

32 BackLite Intelligence: Data-Driven Mall

Advertising PUBLISHED BY: https://www.mecsc.org/site/publications/RPM

CONTACT US: Mariz Matocdo | +971 56 548 1380 /+971 55 551 7605

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! If you would like to contribute an article, place an advertisement for our February 2022 issue or share your comments, suggestions or ideas, contact customercare@mecsc.org

MECS+R MEMBER’S SEGMENT

34 Virtual Reality Entertainment in Shopping

Pointe Stages Llive Super Junior Performance, Korea Village and Dance Shows

46 Aldar to Create 1000 Jobs for UAE

47 Saudi’s Dar Al Arkan and Katara

Hospitality Join Hands to Develop Sea- Front Project in Qatar

Saudi Arabia to Launch Enormous Oil Themed ‘Extreme Park’

48 REDTAG’s Anytime, Anywhere Exchange

Service Delivers Peace of Mind

Savola Completes Acquisition of Bayara Holding

WHAT’S NEW? 49 Dubai’s Emirates Airline to Take in 6000+

Operational Staff, Including Pilots

EXPO 2020 Dubai Welcomes 1.47 million Visits in First 24 Days

36 Is It The End of Face Painting and Spend

Carrefour Opens New AI-Powered

Checkout-Free Store in Dubai’s Mall of the Emirates

38 NFT – A Token of Ownership, Forever

Saudi Arabia: Face Masks No Longer Required to be Worn in Most Public Spaces

39 Iranian Retail Market – From Corona Crisis

Starbucks Plans New Shop Formats for India to Fast -Track Expansion

40 Strategies for Success: 3 Tactics for Working

Alabbar Reveals $2bn Investment Plans for e-commerce Platform Noon

Malls. Will it Work?

and Win?

to Rental Campaign Advantages with Small Tenants

Disclaimer: The viewpoints, articles and opinions contained in the Retail People Magazine are not necessarily those of MECS+R.

WELCOME

WELCOME

ROAD TO RECOVERY

Through this unique, ‘Together through challenging times,’ strategy, Times Square Center worked with its tenants to become a shining example of how businesses can work together to create positive change.

Featuring:

Times Square Center Management Team

P10

MALL OF DILMUNIA Retail Is On Its Way To Recovery

P12

SOUQ7

Enhancing Experiences, Improving Lives

P18

“Where focus goes, energy flows.”

DESIGN INTERNATIONAL

– Tony Robbins, American Author, Coach, Speaker & Philanthropist

Architecture That Brings People Together

ON THE COVER

In life and business, focus is important as this will determine where we are heading to. Our life is controlled by what we focus on. Just like in photography, the focus is important because without it, images can lack sharpness and detail.

Nancy Ozbek & Time Square Center Management Team

YOUNUS AL MULLA

MECS+R Chairman Senior Vice President - Retail International Development, Shopping Malls Procurement & Government Affairs Majid Al Futtaim Retail

ENG. WAIL M. BALKHAIR MECS+R Board President Saudi Arabia

We all know what the pandemic brought to every one of us. The impact was sudden and the effect is immeasurably heartbreaking. This experience taught us to become more resilient, more optimistic and more focused. With two months remaining before 2022 begins, we are seeing greater progress.

Though the recovery process is a bit slow, we are blessed to witness these changes. We are delighted and encouraged to discover how other businesses like shopping centres and retailers thrive and survive in this difficult period. As the saying goes, there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

With this quarter theme “Road to Recovery”, it highlights various interesting stories of businesses and professionals on achieving greater success. To begin with, we are honoured to have the management team of Times Square Center as our featured cover story headed by Nancy Ozbek. Here, they shared their strategy of how they flourished during the pandemic and boast an impressive occupancy level.

In this edition, we also bring you an article from Rebecca Arnold, Mall of Dilmunia in Bahrain, on how Mall of Dilmunia has seen an encouraging trend whereby the mall footfall numbers have been growing steadily with a month-on-month increase.

In Saudi, Ayman Alburti and Majid Algothmi from AZAD Properties announced their new development, Souq7, which brings the concept of popular souqs to international heights. Also, Alfie Gibbs, DGDA Strategic Retail Advisor introduced the Diriyah Gate project in line with the Saudi Vision 2030.

Moving to Oman, Hussain Jamal from Mall of Muscat, revealed that their mall footfall has witnessed the biggest jump over the 3 quarters, with an increase in leasing inquiries and sign-ups.

KAMEL SHABAN

CEO, SOLO MECS+R Board Vice President

JUBY JOSE

Head of Marketing & Specialty Leasing DALMA MALL MECS+R Board Treasurer

ALESSANDRO GAFFURI CEO & Founder CELS Group MECS+R Board Member

DUAIJ AL RUMAIHI

Mall Director, Bahrain Shopping Malls City Centre Bahrain MECS+R Board Member

GOGI GEORGE

GM - Development & Leasing Lulu Group International - Oman MECS+R Board Member

MOHAMMED AL QAED

When it comes to Shopping Centre Design, Davide Padoa and Salaheldin Ahmed from Design International UK stated that 2021 is an important year for them as a large number of their recent projects have opened or will soon be completed.

These are just a few of the many promising stories that we curated for this issue. You can find more inspiring and insightful articles on the road to recovery issue from Abdul Kader Saadi, Mohammad Shaaban, Charlie Morrison, Ishwar Chugani, Anthony Spary, Said Haider, Ali Chab, Frederic Fitoussi, Carlos Candal & Paul Hammond, Umesh Agarwal, Shahrokh Keshavarz and last but not the least, Shannon Alter.

Our team at the MECS+R is also excited to see and connect with you in person as we celebrate our 27th Annual Retail Congress MENA Event on December 6-7, 2021 at the Ritz Carlton DIFC. If you haven’t registered yet, do contact the team at the MECS+R or visit our website at www.retailcongressmena. com We would like to thank all our advertisers, authors, members and readers for your continued support all these years. We hope that you will continue to be our supporters and partners as we pave the road to recovery. Should you want to be part of the upcoming issue, reach out to Mariz Matocdo at customercare@mecsc.org.

Manager, Property Management SEEF Properties MECS+R Board Member

SAMAR AKKOU

Leasing Manager Nakheel Malls MECS+R Board Member

DAVID MACADAM

Chief Executive Officer MECS+R

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Eng. Wail M. Balkhair Board President MECS+R

FOOD & HOSPITALITY CONSULTANTS TO SHOPPING MALLS Professional advice for malls & mixed-use environments Food Strategy - Sustainable F&B Volumes (GLA & AED) - Food Precinct Assessment - Food & Hospitality Mix

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Chadstone Shopping Centre - Australia

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MASTERPLANNING YOUR ASSET’S FOOD & HOSPITALITY STRATEGY futurefood.com.au

Contact Francis Loughran on +61 418 586 149 or Floughran@futurefood.com.au

COVER STORY

T

imes Square Center, a much-loved communityfocused mall, based on Sheikh Zayed Road Dubai has been strategically executing its incredible planned transformation into an appealing, retail and family-experience-focused destination since 2019, and the results have been nothing short of phenomenal.

When the pandemic hit two years ago and the retail industry started to suffer its biggest downfall since the 2007 recession, Times Square Center continued to implement its exceptionally strategic plan to try and create unheard of growth during these trying times. Through this unique, ‘Together through challenging times,’ strategy, Times Square Center worked with its tenants to become a shining example of how businesses can work together to create positive change. Times Square Center now proudly

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Nancy Ozbek TSC General Manager

L-R Seated: Nancy Ozbek, Michelle Bron L-R Standing: Sreejith Ayyappan, Abdassamad El Ghomri, Abhilash Puthan, Anoop Ajay Kumar

boasts an impressive occupancy level, with 29 new businesses launching since 2019. With the new strategy plan in place, Times Square Center even has potential new tenants on a waiting list when new retail space becomes available. Times Square Center has seen a 40% increase in new store openings within the past three years, which in itself, is an amazing achievement.

At TSC we are not just a retail space, but genuinely consider ourselves a family that share the same values and beliefs.

Times Square Center’s strategy was simple. It wanted to grow its reputation as the ultimate communityfocused mall, which would affect the types of retailers and brands that they would invite into its space. And, at the heart of this new strategy is, Times Square Center’s heart. It views its Management Team, its tenants, its suppliers and its extended team such as its PR, Creative & Digital Agency as part of one large family, all working together for the good of one another in order to achieve both individual and ‘family’ growth, goals and success. It is incredibly picky about which brands it allows to join its ‘family,’ ensuring that all brands are aligned with its goals and values, even when the financial aspect is enticing.

With a strong focus and appreciation for locally based and femaleowned businesses, Times Square Center’s General Manager,

Nancy Ozbek, has been at the core of this expansion and revolution, encouraging women to open their new stores and giving guidance on what direction she thinks the Times Square Center should be moving in.

When asked what she thinks has set Times Square Center apart from other retail spaces, Nancy said, “At TSC we are not just a retail space, but genuinely consider ourselves a family that share the same values and beliefs. We have realised that our strength really is in the communities that support us, whether that be our tenants or our customers. There is so much value in adapting, in order to offer our customers a space that they feel safe and comfortable in. Parents can drop their kids off at Adventure HQ for a little wall climbing while they relax over a hot beverage at one of our inviting coffee shops, before stocking up on farm-fresh fruit and vegetables and artisanal clothing, toys, and gifts – and maybe grabbing a couple of books from the second-hand bookstore on their way out. And since Viva launched in our mall, we really have become a one-stop-shop offering busy families everything that they might need. Times Square Center is a very special place, and we are so proud of everything that we have achieved in the past two years.

We look forward to seeing what the next five years hold.”

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Traditionally, shopping centres have categorised retail tenants into two types. These are Traffic Attractors who draw footfall and traffic to the mall, and Traffic Users who pique the interest of those already at the mall and rely heavily on mall traffic. Times Square Center decided to break this rule and started to select every single retailer, from anchor brands to smaller concepts, as traffic attractors. Times Square Center started favouring smaller retail tenants known as micro-mini retail space tenants, who focused on community-type products and experiences and whose target groups tend to be mainly youth and younger adults.

These brands operate on smaller overheads and bring concepts that are extremely popular in other parts of the world, to the city of Dubai, that essentially, have been missing here for years. Times Square Center launched several new brands including Eggs n Soldiers, Melodica, Studiyolab, Latin Fit, Picasso Artists, OtakuME, Maker’s Guild and Sparkbake to name a few into its space and found that these alternative brands really helped

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to rejuvenate the mall and attract a wonderfully loyal audience. An incredible charity initiative, Thrift For Good, is set to launch in one of the last few remaining spaces and this concept exudes everything ‘good’ that Times Square Center stands for. Thrift For Good sells a selection of clothing, shoes and books that have been donated to them from the community, and all proceeds go towards Gulf For Good children’s charities. The management team believes that these smaller, community-focused brands, is one of the main answers to its incredible success today.

Times Square Center’s tenant onboarding criteria is very straightforward. Its ethos revolves around promoting well-being, education, edutainment, and sustainability. Most of its recent retailers have approached the management team simply because their personal objectives align with Times Square Center. It is also open to like-minded concepts that are willing to adapt to its strategy and focus. Times Square Center has several brands that specifically opened in its retail space and have been successfully growing in business and occupational space since their inception.

A few incredible brands that have found success at Times Square Center are Malaak, Eggs n Soldiers, Baby Eats, Studiyolab, Makers Guild, OtakuME, Mums and Bumps, Tutoring Club and Blossom Honey.

Times Square Center is also getting ready to unveil its newly refurbished, sustainable and energy-efficient food court area, ‘Picnic Square,’ which will launch this November. Set to become the ‘beating heart’ of the family orientated community mall, the unique new concept will incorporate functional dining and coworking areas; greenery filled and open welcoming spaces. Picnic Square has been designed with families in mind, with artisanal, deli-style restaurants and cafes fitting snugly along the walls.

Comfortable tables, including kid-sized table and chair seating will fill the majority of the space, while contrasting accents of shrubbery and greenery will add a literal breath of fresh air. Even new mums have been considered, with well-thought out ‘private pods’ allowing mums looking for a bit of privacy, the ability to feed their babies out of view from other shoppers.

Almost completely filled with relevant brands, Times Square Center has announced a few limited spaces available for any new brands hoping to move into Picnic Square and tap into its exclusive, family-focused audience.

When asked about what the next two years has in store for Times Square Center, Nancy clarified that its strategy over the next two years is to work intensively as a group of establishments that are designed, planned, developed, owned, marketed, and leased in order to achieve overall success for everyone.

The Times Square Center Management Team sees itself as one big family, offering success not just for one but for all, working harmoniously together like one unique organism. This wonderful Community Mall has reinvented itself in a challenging time and its unique, long-term strategy is clearly working, and as the last few remaining vacant spaces fill and interest continues to grow, it proves that staying true to your roots really can set you apart from the competition.

Visit timessquarecenter.ae or follow @timessquaredxb on Instagram.

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SHOPPING CENTRE UPDATE

RETAIL IS ON ITS WAY TO GLORY MALL FOOTFALL SHOWS SIGNS OF RECOVERY

It has been a long and challenging year for many, but consumer and retailer sentiments are changing due to government initiatives and the increasing number of vaccinated individuals over the past few months. People are now reemerging from lockdowns, and they are venturing out again to visit shopping malls, entertainment venues, restaurants and cafes.

Mall of Dilmunia has seen an encouraging trend whereby the mall footfall numbers have been growing steadily with a month-on-month increase. The summer season has been a particularly busy time with the opening of all four entertainment zones at Funscape World WLL. Summer camps were arranged for children so that they could experience ice, sports, play and adventure in an all-inclusive package. Children were thrilled to be able to visit and enjoy entertainment and sporting activities with friends.

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Rebecca Charlotte Arnold Deputy CEO & GM Mall of Dilmunia

The official launch of the Bahrain Aquarium kick started the aqua activities at Mall of Dilmunia. Fish feeding, Diving, Fish petting will be available to the public and educational visits will be available for children.

We have signed with several new tenants. The newly signed tenants are a mix of new well-known and established European concepts that are now opening in the Middle East using the Kingdom of Bahrain to launch their expansion and others are well-known local and regional brands.

CrossFit Muharraq will open a CrossFit gym on the ground floor with a mix and ladies only section. Complete with ice baths and saunas, the fitness concept is tapping into the fast-growing wellness industry and the signing of CrossFit Muharraq reinforces the vision of Dilmunia Island as being a destination for health and fitness.

Kunefeci by MADO, which offers unique Turkish food and beverage experience with a retail offering opposite the Aquarium on the ground floor.

first branch in the Middle East at the mall. Eataliano’s mission is to serve food inspired by the values and ancient recipes of the Italian and Roman traditions. It includes coffee, a bakery, homemade gelato using quality ingredients made by the gelato world champion Sergio Colalucci, Roman Gourmet Pinsa - made by the pizza world champion, Max Moresi.

CHKN, Abby BRGR, Abby Shawaya & Robyan, will soon open on the lower ground floor with a location offering views of the canal and dancing fountains. Their quality fast-casual dining experience together with flavoursome dishes will be a favourite for visitors.

We are very happy with the brands that have joined Mall of Dilmunia to date as they complement the entertainment offerings and provide a point of differentiation for the mall.

We will continue to attract additional leading and new brands in order to achieve a fully integrated and diverse mix of brands that satisfy our customers’ needs and wants.

Blue Island, a new gourmet waffle concept is making its debut in the Kingdom of Bahrain by opening its first branch at the Mall of Dilmunia and Eataliano, will open its

Mall of Dilmunia with its strategic location, breathtaking views, various amenities and entertainment venues is expected to cement itself as one of the Kingdom’s leading event venues.

It is set to attract visitors from across Bahrain and abroad by emerging as a unique and ideal location for hosting cultural events and food festivals, attractions, and cultural programs.

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SHOPPING CENTRE UPDATE

ENHANCING EXPERIENCES, IMPROVING LIVES! Building on the urban regeneration model, Souq7 brings the concept of popular souqs to international heights. Poised as the largest lifestyle retail complex in KSA with a unique open market design, Souq7 offers an exceptional shopping experience in the heart of Jeddah.

BLENDING HERITAGE WITH CONVENIENT SHOPPING IN A MODERN SETUP Souq7 celebrates Saudi legacy and culture in an entirely reimagined souq setup. It reflects modernity and innovation in line with Vision 2030, while also embracing the Middle East’s originality, stimulating the senses and inciting a sense of discovery. Historically, Souq7 was a famous destination for shoppers looking for value products at affordable prices.

Boasting a modern infrastructure and an impressive line-up of local and international brands in both the retail and wholesale categories, the renovated compound will offer a transformed shopping journey that ensures a pleasant experience for both tenants and visitors.

AN ALL-ENCOMPASSING ZONING SYSTEM Following the “one-stop-shop” motto where shoppers can find anything and everything they want under one roof, Souq7 will be divided into 7 main zones coming together in a beautiful mosaic that forms an all-encompassing lifestyle and retail space. These zones are:

The Food Stuff Zone - with food markets classified by food category – such as dates, meats, herbs, spices, and others - to provide an ultra-organized and seamless shopping experience.

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The Family Entertainment Zone - which makes up for almost half of the project. It has a Traditional Market with various bazaars, popular shops and gold markets. It also comprises an Entertainment Zone including a state-of-the-art 10-screen cinema complex, a variety of edutainment and entertainment centers, restaurants, cafes, and more. Finally, the section counts a Fashion Zone with a wide-ranging array of fashion, accessories, jewelry, and cosmetics brands.

An Electronics Zone - bringing major electronic retailers together to showcase the latest technologies in home and office appliances, smart phones, tablets, and more.

A Furniture & Home Supplies Zone - with a great choice of showrooms selling furniture, home accessories, draperies, upholstery, kitchen cabinets and accessories, and other products.

A Building Material Zone - with all building material shops gathered up in one area for easier browsing.

An Automotive Zone - set to be one of the largest Auto Park in the Makkah Region with car dealers, accessories shops, as well as detailing and spare parts centers.

A Multi-Use Zone - also called Wellness Zone, offering a multipurpose space dedicated to health and fitness activities, banquet halls, and conferences.

A LOCAL SOUQ WITH NATIONAL IMPACT Spreading over 728,000sqm of lands, Souq7 counts 4,000 shops, around 7,000 parking spaces, 108 buildings, and 5 mosques, with a robust security system to ensure everyone’s safety at all times. A project of this size has an undeniable impact on the growth of the city of Jeddah, as well as on the national economy, as it is expected to create 24,240 jobs, generate SAR 2.3 billion in revenues.

In addition to retail spaces, Souq7 is set to host numerous world-class events and year-round activities, delivering on its promise to be a leading tourism destination in KSA. Redefining shopping standards and reviving the spirit of popular souqs, it is no surprise that Souq7 is a flagship project by innovative asset and property management company, Azad Properties, which manages around 1.4 million sqm of Gross Leasable Area across Saudi Arabia today.

AYMAN ALBURTI Chief Executive Officer At AZAD Properties, we are proud of being one of the major players in the real estate industry. Our innovative thinking and foresight enable us to unleash our portfolio’s full potential.

Leveraging the robust capabilities of local and international experts, our mission is to deliver meaningful and sustainable properties, ones that not only create optimal value for stakeholders, but also leave a positive impact on communities by focusing on innovation and agility.

MAJID ALGOTHMI Executive Director – Properties Souq7 is an urban regeneration project that aims to improve lives and promote self-sustainability models while preserving cultural heritage. Combining authenticity and modernism, the project is poised to become a landmark that radiates positivity and injects a global lifestyle in the city of Jeddah.

As an innovating destination providing visitors with a 360-degree shopping experience to meet all their needs, Souq7 promises to deliver Economical Price, Diversity, and Experience. In fact, by bringing a rich mix of shops and brands from diverse industries under one roof and at great value, Souq7 offers shoppers an exceptional one-stop-shop consumer journey that’s hard to find elsewhere.

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SHOPPING CENTRE UPDATE

THE BIRTHPLACE OF SAUDI ARABIA - The Future of Retail

Diriyah, a SAR 190 Billion investment project, is a 7 square kilometres mixed-use historic, culture and lifestyle destination. Diriyah will become the Kingdom’s historic and cultural heart, proudly showcasing to the world Saudi Arabia’s 300+ years of history through an engaging and inspiring set of heritage, hospitality, education, retail and dining experiences for residents, tourists and frequent visitors. The Retail People Magazine had a chat with Alfie Gibbs, DGDA Strategic Retail Advisor, and shared exciting things about the DGDA. Alfie, thank you for speaking with us. First of all, what is the Diriyah Gate project and how does it fit into Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030?

Our mission is to transform one of the most important historical sites in Saudi Arabia into a global hub for culture, heritage and tourism. Diriyah Gate will be a 7 square kilometre mixed-use development that protects and celebrates the exceptionally distinctive character of Diriyah. It’s a project with a USD $50.6 billion investment pipeline, adding around USD $7.2 billion to the Kingdom’s GDP. It will create 55,000 jobs and aims to attract 27 million visitors a year. As one of the first giga-projects slated to open, it is really the catalyst of Vision 2030 and is critical to the Vision’s success pledge to raise tourism’s contribution to the Kingdom’s GDP from 3% to 10% by the end of the decade.

What is it that makes Diriyah so special as a place?

There is an immense pride in Diriyah amongst Saudis, particularly with it being the birthplace of the Saudi state. When I bring people to Diriyah, whether they be global brands or regional players, they fall in love with it. The uniqueness of any project starts with the location, so what we’re trying to do is curate an experience that delivers an authentic connection with visitors to Diriyah as a place. One of the ways we’re doing that is by building around our UNESCO World Heritage Site at At-Turaif. There aren’t many new developments in the world that can boast that sort of centrepiece.

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In terms of the project itself, what is the masterplan and what assets are you looking to have?

It’s a hugely exciting project. It’s going to be an unprecedented mixed-use space with culture firmly at its heart. There will be a tangible connection to the history in its execution, but one that works hand-in-hand with innovation and the future. We have a whole host of assets in development—everything from cultural centres to offices, museums, residential areas, performance spaces, a grand mosque, luxury and ultra-luxury hotels—with a number of hotel operators already confirmed, many of whom will be entering the Kingdom for the first time. Six of these establishments hug the development’s first-rate retail heart – Diriyah Square. Diriyah will comprise the Kingdom’s most walkable destination, where service infrastructure, roads and parking are largely subsurface.

Talk to us about the retail offering. What can you tell us about it?

We don’t think of our visitors as just shoppers, but as guests.

The experience we want them to have goes beyond just buying the latest fashion or goods, it’s about much more than that. We want a feeling of discovery, a sense of wonder and curiosity. We want people to come to Diriyah and find something new every time.

The retail offering at Diriyah will be unlike anything ever seen before in Saudi Arabia. Getting it right is key to realising the vision. We have one of the most comprehensive retail libraries out there, so we’re looking to rival all the great shopping cities of the world. Shopping, dining, leisure, entertainment, together with education, health and well-being centres, all embedded within that retail heart.

The centre of the development is Diriyah Square, which will be one of the Kingdom’s largest shopping destinations, at 186,000 square metres, with more than 400 iconic lifestyle retail, luxury brand, and dining offerings, all designed in the traditional Najdi style. It will be a brand-new lifestyle experience for the Kingdom and the wider region. We are striving to remain authentic to what Diriyah once was: that bustling hub of commerce. We’re creating a truly unique destination, the likes of which can’t be found anywhere else in the region.

Luxury is a key component. We know from our research that the luxury consumer is educated, well-travelled, and is looking for unique, interesting experiences. That’s what we’re aiming to craft in Diriyah. It’s an unrivalled opportunity for our global brands to innovate and articulate new ways of marketing their products, among stunning Naidi-style architecture that protects and preserves the area’s distinctive past.

We are also working with some of the world’s biggest brands to create innovative customer journeys and experiences within our unique architecture and design. Exciting and creative versions of amazing international, regional and local brands.

Next year, we will launch and open our F&B retail precinct – Bujairi Terrace. Upon overall completion, Bujairi will be home to Riyadh’s new premium dining hub, enjoying uninterrupted views of AtTuraif. Bujairi Terrace will be comprised of a meticulously curated set of premium cuisines and beverage brands, encompassing every dining need – ranging from pit-stop coffees to leisurely fine-dining experiences, with 18 food and beverage brands brought together to cater for local and international visitors for the first time.

ALFIE GIBBS

DGDA Strategic Retail Advisor can we do better, and, in terms of customer service, this has directly benefited our project as we think more about what new experiences we can cultivate for our visitors.

We have been presenting Diriyah to retail brands regionally and on the international stage also. I must say the reaction and feedback has been amazing. The retailers are really excited by the fact that they see this as a next generation retail, multi-faceted and completely experiential. They are also buying into the innovative nature of what we will deliver and can align themselves to the values we are trying to project.

We’re very aware that retail has had a tough time globally and multi-channel has come to the fore, but if you have a distinctive project, backed by world-class team and a compelling retail offer, you will do well. Diriyah Gate is the next stage in the evolution of retail. Don’t believe me? You’ll have to come and see for yourself.

The pandemic has been a hard hit to retail everywhere.

How are DGDA managing the recovery?

Thankfully, DGDA was minimally impacted because we were still at the concept design stage. But what I’m seeing is that the pandemic has accelerated change and encouraged innovation. In retail, we have been forced to ask ourselves, what

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SHOPPING CENTRE UPDATE

MALL OF MUSCAT On Clear Path to Recovery

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all of Muscat, Oman’s premier shopping and leisure destination has not been any more affected than the other shopping malls in the region, notwithstanding the fact that it only got about 10 months of play before the pandemic wreaked havoc and tore through the very core of its business, it has remained resilient through the crisis. The mall is now on a steady path to business recovery post the turbulent COVID-19 business restrictions period as all retail, F&B and leisure categories are now fully functional.

In spite of the fact that mall visitors now need to have taken at least 1 dose of the approved COVID-19 Vaccinations to enter the mall, Mall footfalls in Q3 have witnessed the biggest jump over the past 3 Quarters with an approximate QOQ increase of 30% over previous quarters. Majority of the mall’s Anchor tenants including Debenhams, H&M, Centrepoint, R&B, Matalan, REDTAG and others had all launched their summer sales promotions which has resulted in Q3 seeing the highest growth in tenant sales turnover over the past 1 year with majority of the tenants reporting a minimum of 20% up to 40% increase in business.

Contrary to the negative business sentiments in the market during Q2 of this year, the mall witnessed the new opening of an Edutainment Venue Mahaweb, Turkish Street Food Concept, Reema’s Kumpir and the legacy traditional fabrics retailer “Mahdi Store.” The mall has also experienced an increase in leasing enquiries over the past 3 months as business confidence has started to gradually improve with multiple new lease signings

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during the quarter. Furthermore, tenancies which were being supported with special considerations have now initiated discussions to wean themselves off from the special conditions and revert to fixed rentals as the special conditions start exceeding their original contracted values which is an extremely positive sign for the retail operators within the mall.

With leisure & F&B forming a major component of Mall of Muscat’s tenant mix, relaxation of the dining-in capacity has given the much needed boost to the F&B operators such as PF Chang’s, Molten Chocolate, Café Di Roma, Starbucks, etc. who have now gone into 100% seating capacity which has provided the much needed comfort to mall visitors and now do not need to wait longer to be served.

The mall’s flagship leisure destination “Oman Aquarium” on its part, ever since the opening has embarked on an unprecedented path to enhancing the customer experience and engagement.

It has launched multiple experiences to provide guests with an unforgettable experience, activities such as Scuba Diving with a

world class diving operator, kids workshops for all age groups, Yoga at the Aquarium, Special Events booking for events such as Birthdays & Anniversaries, Exotic Birds Show, Shark, Crocodile & Penguin Encounters, etc. have gone a step further in adding value to the visitors experience to the mall.

As the Aquarium plays a pivotal role in the efforts of the Mall to attract more footfall, no efforts have been spared to make it more accessible to customers across all demographics. It has now entered into multiple marketing agreements with coupon aggregators and loyalty programs with the country’s major banks and telecom providers expanding the reach and accessibility to a wide range of customers.

“

With leisure & F&B forming a major component of Mall of Muscat’s tenant mix, relaxation of the dining-in capacity has given the much needed boost to the F&B operators...

”

HUSSAIN K. JAMAL Head, Mall Operation Mall of Muscat

The mall’s other entertainment venues such as Novo Cinemas, Fabyland and Xtreme Zone have been very active promoting their venues with aggressive marketing and advertisement promotions which has helped all co-tenancies such as the Food Court and Restaurant operators to take advantage of the increased footfalls.

The mall has utilized Q1 and Q2 to formalize plans to enhance the facilities within the mall by entering into various agreements with multiple operators which will come into fruition in Q4.

Facilities such as a unique drive through bank are being added to the existing services within the mall. In addition, the mall will be witnessing the opening of various retail, F&B and Leisure operators such as Abdul Samad Quraishi, Chocolala, Dashing Nails, Fone Zone, Alex Avien and many more. The mall will also be launching Oman’s first indoor sports complex which is bound to have a big impact on the mall footfalls. All in all, the mall has positioned itself strategically to take advantage of the positive changes in the business environment in the country and is already on the path to a strong recovery in both short and long term.

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SPECIAL FEATURE

ARCHITECTURE THAT BRINGS PEOPLE TOGETHER

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ESIGN INTERNATIONAL is an Architecture firm with over 55 years of history and more than 10 million square metres of built architecture, constantly evolving to adapt to everchanging people’s habits. Building from its strong experience in Retail, the practice has now projects encompassing a wide range of sectors, including Mixed-Use Developments, Residential, Hotels and Hospitality.

“As a place is defined by the experience and emotion it evokes, we seek to create spaces that intrigue and engage people, encouraging them to explore the opportunities they offer” explains Davide Padoa, CEO of Design International. He continues “To create communities, we choose to partner with international Retailers, Developers and Asset Managers that share the same values and ethics, to develop projects in which the artistic, commercial, environmental and social aspects are in complete harmony.”

Salaheldin Ahmed, Associate Architect & MENA Regional Manager, explains: “The projects we design can be described as ‘Cities within a City’ for our ability to shape local stories to

Ferrari Centro Stile, Italy

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DAVIDE PADOA CEO Design International

SALAHELDIN AHMED

Associate Architect & MENA Regional Manager Design International

create unique experiences for every visitor. History and culture of countries are the foundations of every project as we strive to create meeting places in which visitors relate to and give them the desire to return again and again.”

The Urban, Environmental, and Social approach of Design International is led by architects with great skills in creating public places to live day by day. The team, recognized internationally for the strength and depth of its expertise, designs projects following urban planning principles specifically adapted to the

site conditions and the opportunities given. In synergy with the clients’ team, every member brings their unique culture and individuality to the project, allowing Design International to develop exceptional places that are imaginative, iconic, and within budget.

2021 is an important year for Design International as a large number of their recent projects have opened or will be completed soon. In April 2021, Silicon Central Mall opened its doors in Dubai, inaugurating the 209th Hypermarket by Lulu Group; the project has recently won the International Property Awards for the Leisure Architecture category in Dubai, proving itself to be already a new landmark for the city. By the end of the year, Lulu Mall Sharjah Central will be inaugurated, following the recent opening of Forsan Central in Abu Dhabi.

Two of the biggest shopping malls in India will open their doors to the public before the end of the year: Lulu Mall Trivandrum – that won the International Property Award for Retail Architecture in India – and Lulu Mall Lucknow, that introduces for the first time in Uttar Pradesh the concept of a three-levels ‘High Street’ with entertainment ‘Piazzas’.

add something precious to the local context to enrich lives and bring local communities together.

Davide Padoa, one of the driving forces of Design International, concludes, “For more than 55 years now, we have believed in design that shapes how people feel about a place, and today more than ever we believe in creating places that engage emotions and shape memories”.

Livat Changsha, China

In China, the fifth development by Swedish Group, Ingka Centres, opened last August: Livat Changsha, a mixed-use project that alongside the traditional LIVAT Centre and IKEA store has a unique, IKEA inspired, Soho Tower.

In Italy, the refurbishment and enlargement of I Gigli have given visitors more space to meet in a welcoming place for families, workers and shoppers, while the inauguration of Mercato di Corso Sardegna project will revitalise the historical market restored in Genoa and will give the citizen large areas of public green space.

All these projects follow the principle that architects have the social responsibility to design buildings that

Silicon Central, UAE

Hubtown, Italy

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AR C HI T E CT U R E TH AT B RI NGS PEO P L E T OGE T HE R

w w w. d e s i g n i n t e r n a t i o n a l . c o m

Destination Mall, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

FEATURE

Innovation & The Road To Recovery

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n the aftermath of the global COVID-19 pandemic, 2021 is proving to be an innovative term for Abdul Kader Saadi, MD of Glee Hospitality Solutions. Many operators have had to pool all their resources and seek new avenues of thinking in order to ensure their continued success within their respective markets. To this effect, technology will always be one of the strongest tools for fostering success and the F&B sector is no exception in this aspect.

In light of this trend of technological symbiosis with the F&B market, Abdul Kader with a dedicated new team has launched a new B2B application dubbed Eighty6. The Company is part of the DIFC innovation hub enclave, with an allocated Angel capital from the UAE and Saudi Arabia. (Women Spark / https://womenspark.co/) Eighty6 was launched in September 2021 within the UAE and within the first quarter of 2022 in KSA. The addressable markets would cover a wide spectrum of targets that would include F&B operators and vendors; 40,000+ potential customers between the two aforementioned markets.

The purpose of Eighty6 is to create a more efficient ecosystem between suppliers and restaurants where both parties come out in a beneficial win-win scenario. The system will enable chefs to reduce the time they spend on procurement to give an example of projected efficiency.

Chefs on average spend approximately 7 hours a week on procurement and with the implementation of Eighty6, we are looking to drop that time by more than 50%. Additionally, Chefs will also be able to search for existing or new products via the application, further empowering them to shop and compare products with greater clarity and ease. To supplement this, we will also incorporate a supplier dashboard that will seek to minimize the data entry process, handle aggregate orders, and empower them to market their product at the touch of a button.

Abdul Kader (Aboudi) Saadi Co-Founder and Managing Director Eighty6

In addition, Eighty6 will incorporate state of the art AI tech to help chefs predict their procurement requirements based on par levels and consumption patterns. Eighty6 is design by a long-term solution to long-term tangible problems/challenges that currently exist within the sector.

Approximately, half of businesses have already invested in digital infrastructure and with the addition of an application like Eighty6 we are giving operators the perfect tool for their e-commerce to thrive.

Social distancing in our physical space forced us to carve a stronger piece of the digital environment, with zoom meetings and online ordering options taking over the volume of previously opted interpersonal associations.

COVID-19 changed the way we perceive and conduct business forever and operators need to adapt to seize new areas of potential opportunity. We live in a digital age and much like the advent of inventions such as the wheel and the steam engine, those that implement and equip the most innovative tools of the times create the greatest chances for success.

Eighty6 is the culmination of the F&B industry’s most influential experts collaborating with the state-of-the-art digital applications, which will not merely prove beneficial but in some cases be utterly imperative to the road to recovery. For more info, visit https://www.eighty6.shop/

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FEATURE

Dubai Expo 2021: A Celebration of Innovation and Recovery with BRANDS

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ecovery is an ongoing process with no standard formula, even in the case of established businesses. Bouncing back from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, we identified in BRANDS that the key is finding what works best for us while keeping the interest of our customers at heart. We must remain tuned and responsive to the needs of our growing customer base.

Time is of the essence and we at BRANDS focus our efforts on providing not just products but solutions: a value for money men’s wear collection.

Part of our road to recovery is through the Dubai Expo 2021, a global event that will play a big part in the recovery of most businesses in the UAE, including the retail industry.

Expo is an amalgamation of ideas, collaboration, and innovation three elements that BRANDS have always excelled at. The pandemic caused destruction to several businesses but ours was a disruption that provided opportunities to strengthen what we stand for. We are known for our affordable price strategy, but BRANDS’ excellent quality and comfort is not a compromise neither a point for negotiation.

BRANDS will leverage the Dubai Expo 2021 by attracting visitors and tourists through our competitive prices and high-quality products. Each of our items address the varying style and personalities of men. We have also launched the Factory Prices Campaign to allow our customers to avail of our unparalleled products with up to 55% discount when buying 5 items. We guarantee saving more and elevating your fashion never like before through our unique collection.

The pandemic proved that the retail industry is not only malleable to innovation, but that the market is constantly acclimatising to new purchase patterns. Our main strategy revolves around tailoring our prices based on our customers’ purchasing capacity. Our differential pricing strategy eliminates customers’ main barrier to making a purchase - money. Therefore, customers are given incentives to navigate across our collection which complements each man’s mood, personality, and charisma. We empower every man to have access to our products by ensuring unique pieces are at their disposal.

BRANDS was able to flourish during the pandemic because of our wholesale strategy, and it has been the company’s business approach since its inception. While others are negatively affected by the pandemic, BRANDS proved to be resilient as we opened 3 additional stores since the opening of businesses last year (2 in Sharjah, UAE, and 1 in City Center Doha in Qatar). The Dubai Expo 2021 will open more doors for BRANDS to work on expansion and achieve our vision of opening 30 more stores in the first quarter of 2022.

We encourage you to spend abundant time exploring Expo.

Notwithstanding the invaluable experience of joining one of the world’s biggest celebrations of culture and diversity of thought, you will be

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Mohammad Shaaban

Business Development Manager BRANDS

supporting both BRANDS and the retail industry across their path to recovery.

We look forward to warmly welcoming you to BRANDS and Expo as you plunge into exceptional clothing pieces offering comfort, quality, and value.

For more info, visit https://brandsco.com/

WE’RE ON A MISSION TO SERVE THE WORLD FLAVOR Proven Winner One of the world’s fastest growing franchises is expanding into the Middle East and the opportunity to invest is now. Wingstop is on a mission to Serve the World Flavor through an unparalleled guest experience centered around our highly craveable classic wings, boneless wings and tenders, always cooked to order and hand-sauced-and-tossed in our unique flavors. Our investors find success with a proven model that combines a small retail footprint, easy-to-run operations and a technology platform that gives our digitally-savvy guests convenient access to the brand for delivery or takeout.

Global Growth At Wingstop, we have our sights set on opening over 6,000 restaurants globally and are well-positioned to grow given the increasing, international demand for craveable and unique food.

A key focus will be broadening the Europe, Middle East and Asia Pacific regional markets, where we see immense opportunity. In the Middle East, we are striving to amplify our presence in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. Join us in our goal to become a Top Ten Global brand. Founded in Dallas, TX, Wingstop has offered guests flavor without compromise since 1994. (NASDAQ: WING)

CHARLIE MORRISON CHAIRMAN & CEO

OVER 1,500 LOCATIONS WORLDWIDE

CONTACT RADEK PODRACKY, DIRECTOR OF INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, TO LEARN ABOUT FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITIES. RPODRACKY@WINGSTOP.COM

©2021 WF LLC.

FEATURE

Wingstop Targets Middle East Markets

W

ingstop is a dynamic and growing brand, looking for growth in many regions. Our sights are set on opening over 6,000 restaurants globally. The Middle East region offers great opportunities for our expansion plans. Following our success across our European markets, gives us a great position to strengthen our presence in the Middle East as well. Continued expansion and social media push in the UK, as well as the recent marketing campaign and large increase in social followers following the launch of UAE’s TikTok account are examples that could translate well in the Middle East markets.

Our small-box formula in Singapore is a great solution for the markets with high occupancy costs. This can also be transferred to some of the markets in GCC as well, as we know large metropolitan markets can lead to expensive real estate, and we’ve seen our small-box footprints lead to tremendous success for Wingstop. This supports our interest in expanding further into the Middle East while exploring similar deals to our recent Canada and UK growth agreements.

Canada Expansion – Looking for Similar Size of Deal in Saudi Arabia We’re extending our global reach by expanding into Canada through an agreement with JPK Capital to develop 100 Wingstop locations across Canada in the next 10 years, with the first set to open in Toronto in early 2022. “As technology entrepreneurs, we’ve been impressed with Wingstop’s investment in innovation and look forward to offering a best-in-class digital and in-restaurant experience to Canadians,” said Joe Poulin, Founder and CEO of JPK Capital.

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Charlie Morrison CEO Wingstop

We see the Middle East and Saudi Arabia having similar attributes as Canada especially in consumer behaviors, digital engagements and off premise dining.

areas that if we believe the brand awareness is sufficient that we can start to drive a delivery-only model through dark kitchens.”

Digital - The Future of Ordering

Moving Forward in 2022

To help fulfill our objective of “digitizing every transaction,” we’re planning to heavily advertise delivery, 100 percent of which is digital.

“Our pillar of sustaining same-store sales growth is supported by our strategies around delivery and digital expansion,” said Charlie Morrison, Wingstop CEO.

Wingstop has a great business model with a 4:1 sales/ investment ratio. Overall, the right business model, small footprint approach, digital platform, and social media focus are key areas we’ll continue to grow and evolve as we expand into other markets. Our recent successful openings and upcoming expansion into Canada encourages us to bring the above strategies and experiences to new territories.

Wingstop’s investments in digital and technology have enhanced speed of service and been a driver of our business in international markets.

UK Success We opened our first Wingstop in the UK in late 2018. Our brand partner Lemon Pepper Holdings successfully opened in the heart of central London and its portfolio now has a mix of high street, shopping mall and ghost kitchen locations. “We’ve been delighted by the overwhelming response from guests and look forward to bringing our brand to more regions of the UK in coming years.” Said Tom Grogan, Director of LPH.

Small Footprint Prior to the pandemic, offpremise represented the majority of Wingstop’s sales in the U.S., which quickly pivoted to 100% off-premise overnight at the onset of the pandemic. This off-premise approach has been outlined as a key growth driver for our business.

Ghost kitchens also present an opportunity for the brand to enter trade areas that otherwise might have been challenging for opening traditional restaurants.

Small-box solutions for markets with high rent have been key for the brand with expansion in Singapore, UK and other major metropolitan markets. The idea behind these locations’ feeds into Wingstop’s continued focus on delivery.

“A good example might be a business hub in a large market where there’s a lot of daytime population, a lot of businesses that are there, but there’s no real retail presence,” said Charlie Morrison, Wingstop CEO. “We could drop a kitchen making it available for delivery to our guests. There are

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FEATURE

Retail: Back to Basics…

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hinese philosopher Lao-Tzu is often credited with saying ‘when you are content to be simply yourself and don’t compare or compete, everybody will respect you.’

For a long time now, the apparel retail industry has been fiercely competitive and dynamic. Customers can often feel disillusioned by the plethora of options marketed to them by different brands through different channels.

As retailers, we first need to go back to basics to make sure that shopping in our stores is an enjoyable experience. It is up to us to ensure that factors such as customer service, health and safety, and technology integration are of the highest quality so that our customers’ in-store experiences will be as seamless as possible. Today’s shoppers want a good shopping atmosphere, convenient store locations, and helpful and knowledgeable sales staff. In fact, they expect no less.

This is not all. Recent studies have revealed that there is a growing requirement for special promotions and sales, efficient return policies, on-line presence, and continuous brand reliability. Customers do not buy from a company; they buy from someone they can trust, someone knowledgeable, someone who delivers what is promised.

Retailers also need to consider that today’s global customer is cost and time-conscious: thus, our retail offering should be relevant, functional, and affordable. It is rare that you will find a customer who thinks of cost as no obstacle, never mind time.

This said, the future of retail is being built around the notion that what you sell is less important than how you sell it. Forget about product differentiation – the future of retail is about distinct experiences.

To create such experiences, retailers must understand the critical importance of connecting with their customers. True customer loyalty cannot simply be bought for discounts, ‘miles’ or points. These are a short-term fad, which get boring when they do not deliver on the initial expectation. Your loyal customers will ultimately return because the experiences you create for them are preferable to those delivered by your competitors.

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Ishwar Chugani

CEO and Managing Director Giordano

Thus, the opportunities to create repeat customers lie in the experience you offer to your shoppers as soon as they step into your stores. Your competitors may be able to match your products and services, feature for feature, but the experience your brand offers is yours alone and provides you with a true competitive advantage. To enjoy profitability in the long-term retailers, need to reach out from the confines of the box, continually innovating and varying their offering to attract customers.

There is no single magic formula that works for all retailers, but it seems increasingly apparent that the retailers that survive and thrive are those that understand their customers and know what services they would value. I end with the words of Steve Jobs, “Get closer than ever to your customers. So close that you tell them what they need well before they realize it themselves.”

SAUDI BONYAN Saudi Bonyan is the real estate development arm of Abdulrahman Saad Al Rashid & Sons Company in Saudi Arabia. It is a wholly owned subsidiary.

Saudi Bonyan has a large and diversified portfolio of income generating assets that span across different sectors such as retail, residential and mixed developments. The company also engages in land development as part of its strategy.

AL RASHID MEGA MALL

AL RASHID MALL ABHA

AL RASHID MALL JAZAN

SAUDI BONYAN REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT CO. Al Imam Saud Ibn Abdul Aziz Branch Rd. Al Mohammadiyyah P.O. Box 9102, Riyadh 12364, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Tel. no. +966 (0) 11 8290 800 info@saudibonyan.com.sa

FEATURE

Experiential Retail: Repositioning Saudi Arabia’s Retail Sector Saudi Arabia’s retail sector is undergoing a range of changes in both the supply and demand side. CBRE highlights the importance of understanding and delivering successful demand drivers, particularly in the food and beverage segment of the market, and their impact on asset performance.

Anthony Spary

T

he retail sector in Saudi Arabia has been undergoing material structural shifts over recent years which have underpinned significant changes in both the supply and demand of retail amenities. These shifts have largely stemmed from changes in legislation which have ranged from the reintroduction of cinemas, 100% foreign ownership, to the implementation of Saudisation in the sector.

Over this period, we have also seen changes in consumer spending patterns, driven by the reductions in cost-of-living allowances, relatively anemic growth in average real wages, the growth in e-commerce and demographic shifts.

The onset of the pandemic not only accelerated the pace of these changes but also has introduced new complexities in the market. The increase in the rate of VAT from 5% to 15% has further impacted the purchasing power of consumers. This combined with an uncertain economic backdrop, decline in international visitation, increased e-commerce take-up and on-going social mobility restrictions, have materially impacted the retail sector. According to estimates by Euromonitor, the total value of store-based retailing in Saudi Arabia fell year-on-year by 15.9% in 2020, with many retailers consolidating

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DIRECTOR – HEAD OF OFFICE INVESTOR LEASING & RETAIL CBRE

or closing branded stores all together given the tougher trading conditions. However, as mentioned above, the retail sector was already facing headwinds prior to the pandemic, where in the four years to 2019, total storebased retail sales fell by 1.0%. This is despite the increasing levels of recreational spending over this period.

Therefore, arguably, there is a misalignment of demand and the supply of retail amenities, which must be addressed in order for the sector to reach its true potential and contribute effectively to a more diversified economy. Given Saudi Arabia’s young population, where almost 60% of Saudi nationals are below the age of 30, the current delivery model of retail is arguably out of step with young cohort’s requirements. Many assets in the Kingdom lack appropriate demand drivers to generate footfall. This is particularly true for experiential focused retail amenities, a segment which is seeing a global surge. Saudi Arabia is no different, in fact, due to the recent surge in entertainment related concepts, after a prolonged absence, the sector has significantly higher growth potential compared to the global average.

Whilst a substantial number of internationally recognised durable goods and apparel stores have entered the market in Saudi Arabia, the entertainment sector still lacks quality offerings. More so, in this space, Food and Beverage offerings are becoming the primary draw for entertainment venues. Therefore, before more complex experiential retail concepts are rolled out in Saudi Arabia, the low quantum of quality concepts in the entertainment sector of the market must be addressed.

We are already seeing developers addressing this with future schemes in the Kingdom with the likes of Saudi Entertainment Ventures looking to capitalise on this gap in the market.

“The onset of the pandemic

not only accelerated the pace of these changes but also has introduced new complexities in the market.

”

The successful execution of this will be critical in attracting footfall to help sustain other retail architypes. According to the ICSC Industry Insights Report 2019, consumers are increasingly looking to have food, drink and entertainment in one location, with 70% of consumers preferring to visit entertainment venues for groups outings, rather than casual dining destinations. Therefore, alongside the entertainment aspect of retail placemaking, incorporating quality international food and beverage will act as a significant demand driver in the Kingdom, this will promote locations as a social hub and will be the key component of a successful retail mix.

However, landlords must curate a mix of tenants which offer a varied mix of menus and experiences to avoid dilution of sales. Alongside onboarding recognised concepts, there should also be provisions for home grown concepts, which can even startup in such locations before moving up the chain scale in the event they are successful. Detailed studies must be carried out as to what the required quality, quantity and mix of food and beverage will be in each location. Understanding and catering for the asset’s catchment demographic will lead to greater levels of footfall and dwell time. Landlords in turn will be able to bolster occupancy rates and even command premium rents by leveraging these demand drivers to attract a range of auxiliary tenants.

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CBRE in Saudi Arabia.

Our expertise.

Your bottom line.

Offering landlords, developers, global brands, and regional home grown concepts, with comprehensive strategic and execution solutions across Saudi Arabia’s dynamic retail landscape.

Retail Consultancy

Leasing Services

• • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • •

Project vision Concept design reviews Project zoning & phasing Category mix and sizing Rental projections F&B consultancy Retail analytics Asset management

Scheme positioning Leasing strategies Merchandise mix Leasing services Marketing strategies Market benchmarking Lease negotiations Market analysis

CBRE is the market leader for real estate consultancy services both globally and across the Middle East region.

Operating in the region for over 15 years, CBRE has extensive experience providing dedicated retail services to support both regional and multi national clients with their real estate strategies.

Learn more at cbre.sa

Mohamad Hammoud

Anthony Spary

Associate Director Advisory & Transaction Services +966 53 722 7788

Director Head of Office Investor Leasing & Retail +971 52 846 9701

FEATURE

How Big Data Will Help Retail Real Estate Achieve Success

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odern retail real estate has evolved into an immersive experience with something for every type of visitor, from high-street favourites and department stores to designer shops and restaurants. These shopping malls include family-focussed attractions such as aquariums, zoos, cinemas and ski slopes, which is why technology now plays a crucial role in managing multiple aspects of the modern shopping experience.

With all these assets to think about, it can be difficult to know where to begin. That is where your data comes in. You need to explore and understand your regional trends including demographic shifts, culture and politics. This type of data is key in helping you plan location, shopping centre sizes and can help determine what technology you need to implement going forward.

Data is the core of every successful strategy, but if you don’t have the right systems or the right strategy in place to use that data, it can become obsolete.

Single connected solutions such as Yardi’s Retail Suite, including Yardi Voyager Retail, can help you evaluate current and future occupancy with visual floor plan graphics, attract prospects, improve customer experience as well as gain better analytical insight from one fully integrated platform.

They remove the hassle of collecting data from multiple disparate systems and can help reduce costs, drive revenue streams and increase asset value.

Big Data’s Key Role The retail sector now generates more data each month than most vertical real estate markets. This is why simple tools or spreadsheets aren’t enough anymore for you to gain valuable insights into your data or trends.

Advanced, integrated technology now exists with a plethora of helpful tools that are easy to use. It can centralise your data, automate workflows and help property managers work more efficiently and maintain successful retail centre operations.

Said Haider

Regional Sales Director Middle East YARDI

The significance of big data in retail and turning this into easily accessible, meaningful and precise metrics should not be underestimated. Big data helps shopping centre managers satisfy the needs of their shopping centre visitors, retailers and investors in ways that e-commerce can’t.

Analysing data, anticipating changes in customer needs and aligning it with specific assets and investment strategies can help you drive a sustainable and successful retail real estate.

By utilising a cloud-based solution, you gain access to insightful analytics that you can use to make better-informed business decisions, whilst working from any location.

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FEATURE

BackLite Intelligence

Data-Driven Mall Advertising

S

hopping mall advertising is unique in that your advertising message is in close proximity to the point of sale. It is exposed to target audiences who are already prepared to spend money.

The digitisation of mall networks adds flexibility to the buying process. It can now be bought online programmatically, meaning ads can be changed, amended – or switched off – in real-time. Creatives can be replaced automatically to respond to the external environment, maximising the effectiveness of any placement.

With Programmatic Out of Home, you plan and buy your campaigns in a similar way to that of online, by impressions. But how can this be done effectively? Where do you start? Data is critical to the process.

With BackLite Intelligence, we aggregate data from multiple sources, then analyse it with custom algorithms. This analysis generates insights around traffic flows, audience demographics, buying behaviours, and dwell times. The result? Audience profiles ensure your messages and ideas are seen by the right people, not just passersby.

Ali Chab

Head of Malls and Cinema BACKLITE MEDIA FZ LLC

BackLite Intelligence powers The MediaXchange, our programmatic platform. The MediaXchange delivers one of the biggest advantages of the OOH medium: the ability to run hugely impactful ads on premium digital sites with relevance and flexibility.

But what are the most significant benefits?

Speed By automating our transactional process and making our inventory available online, the speed at which a campaign can be launched has gone from weeks to days to hours.

Agility Because campaigns are activated through a trading desk, it means they can be changed, tweaked, adjusted, modified very quickly.

Targeting A critical piece of the programmatic DOOH puzzle is the ability to target your audience more precisely.

Dynamic Scheduling Programmatic streamlines and simplifies the process for using dynamic creative for OOH.

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An audience-first approach now enables the integration of online and out-of-home marketing messages, increasing visibility, reach and brand awareness. So for whatever conditions you might want to set, programmatic can help you accomplish your goals. As soon as the time is right, you’ll be able to automatically deliver the right message to the right screen to reach your audience, whoever they are.

Gender

Age

Gender Age Mood Attention time

Male 37 Unhappy 4seconds

Mood Attention time

Gender Age Mood Attention time

Female 32 Neutral 12seconds

Gender Age Mood Attention time

Female 24 Happy 30seconds

Data-Driven Out of Home We offer the ability to plan and buy using audience profiles that ensure your messages and ideas are seen by the right people not just passersby For more information visit our website

www.backlitemedia.com/intelligence Or connect with us on social media

Gender Age Mood Attention time

Male 27 Happy 22seconds

Astronaut Male 32 Surprised 50seconds

FEATURE

Virtual Reality

Entertainment in Shopping Malls.

Will it Work?

In the GCC region, shopping malls are the main drivers of the retail industry. These establishments provide the opportunity for retailers to showcase their brands. Having said that, competition among retailers is fiercer than ever, resulting in higher demand for shopping malls to generate more footfall. While in the past, malls initially served only as a convenient retail hub for residents, changes have begun to appear. The influx of international luxury retailers, the increasing growth of F&B and entertainment offerings, saw malls evolving into weekend and entertainment destinations.

Speaking of entertainment, the Retail People Magazine had an insightful conversation with Frederic Fitoussi, Managing Director of Palais Royal Technology that manages the Virtual Center in Dubai, one of the leading Virtual Reality Games providers in France.

Can you give us a brief information about yourself and what you do?

I have been living in Dubai for the past 14 years developing retail brands in the region from different industries. I am here with the family. We love this country, it’s lifestyle and all the benefits the nation offers.

What is Virtual Reality (VR)?

Virtual Reality (VR) gaming is a multi-sensory, immersive gaming environment where hardware and software come together to offer a virtual world experience via head-mounted displays. Sensors within the headsets track the user’s movements and keep changing the views accordingly. This gives users the impression of being physically present in a surreal environment.

How big is the Virtual Reality in gaming market?

In 2020, record shows USD 150 Billion for the global gaming industry while the global virtual reality in gaming market is about USD 16 Billion. VR represents 10% of the global gaming industry market and should reach by 25% in 2025. Over the past 5 years, game editors have received 43% of their total funding to develop VR games. The best example would be Mark Zuckerberg, Owner of Facebook, as he decided to invest big in VR. Currently, he’s utilizing 25% of his task force only in VR to develop tomorrow’s VR experience.

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Frederic Fitoussi

Managing Director Palais Royal Technology

What is the market for Virtual Reality entertainment in the region?

The Middle East emerge as one of the fastest-growing regions for VR gaming after US and Asia. According to the industry, the estimate revenue for gaming in the MENA region this year is USD 5bn. Approximately, the number of Middle East gamers is 100 million and close to 2.5Bn worldwide. With this numbers, VR gaming market will generate an estimate of USD 400M in the region this year.

What are the factors driving the virtual reality?

VR has the ability to create a reality ‘outside’ of the real world. A safe space for consumers to isolate themselves from the real word, so VR has enhanced the gaming experience by offering a real-time ability to take gamers into their screens. The key factors that are driving the market growth including the rising demand of gaming is the youth or the Generation Z and Millennials. In fact, Hollywood is already stepping into VR. Cinema blockbuster movie producers start to understand the potential of VR. More and more producers are now adding a VR trailer to promote their movies.

What do you think is the people’s perception about VR? VR is still very new for most. People who tried VR for the first time are amazed by the experiences it can provide.

The industry and consumers in MENA have a limited

perception of what VR gaming and experiences are all about. They believe it is all about affordable simulators with poor VR graphic game and some shooting games catering to a limited audience.

However, we can’t blame them, as this is all you can find in the region for now, but with Virtual Center, it is far more than that.

So why is Virtual Center different from what we see in the market?

First, VC has no competitor so far. We are pioneer in VR entertainment over the past 5 years and our experience across France allowed us to polish our concept. Virtual Center is offering all in one solution for developers and operators. We tailor the best VR games selections that fulfil the operator’s need for entertainment value while balancing the investment required.

Within a space of 9 sqm, you could be on a rollercoaster or in a pyramid playing an escape game with your friends. How about Space repairing the NASA international space station? Or jumping from the top of a building or racing in F1. These are just a few examples, and all of these can be done in 9 sqm. Imagine how much operators can save in terms of fit-out fees and renting space.

Could you tell us more about what a client can expect when entering a Virtual Center?

Compared to a traditional entertainment center, we are not targeting only kids or teenager, although they are the footfall drivers but let us not forget about the parents. Virtual Center is designed in such a way that parents will want to have their own virtual experience with their kids or alone. We have games, programs, and explorations beyond your imagination for adults. We are working with schools in France to bring classes on a field trip to our centers to experience educational VR programs, where they can learn more about nature and the environment in a fun way in a virtual world. Our expert teams are constantly developing new technology and listening to what customers want.

What is your Expansion plan for the Middle East?

Our franchise model is working extremely well in France, and we are planning to open 30 VC in MENA by 2025. We are in the process of opening our office in Dubai which will be ready very soon. It will also include a small showroom where you can test our VR concept and experience the magic.

What would you say about Virtual Reality in shopping malls in just a few words to conclude this interview?

VR is not a niche product inside the gaming industry, but rather it is the gaming industry of the future. Our VR entertainment industry suffers during COVID. Same as the cinemas, we had to shut down all our franchise centers in France. Fortunately, the recovery is doing extremely well. Our industry is now booming as the demand for new entertainment in Malls is high.

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FEATURE

IS IT THE END OF FACE PAINTING AND SPEND AND WIN?

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n 2020, the global pandemic impacted the theatrical and home/ mobile entertainment, as movie theaters and production studios temporarily closed. Since millions were quarantined and lock down was implemented, viewers were forced to stay home for their video entertainment. As the vaccine has rolled out all over the world, different industries which was hit much by the pandemic is opening slowly to a period of road to recovery.

The Retail People Magazine had a one-on-one interview with Carlos Candal, CEO of GMG who’s planning to bring a unique and experiential solutions to the MENA region.

Can you tell us a brief info about yourself, your company and what do you do?

Carlos Candal

CEO Global Marketing Group Global Creative

I am the Founder & CEO of Global Marketing Group. I may say that I already survived and excelled in the industry for 32 years. GMG was founded in 1989 and it has grown to become one of the world’s leading merchandisers, production company, and an integrated events agency, with 14 offices around the world, it prides itself in providing unique and powerful solutions.

Global Creative based in Dubai is the latest addition to the GMG family of businesses. It was established in the UAE in 2016. I have asked Paul Hammond to join me as COO and acquired his Feel the Magic brand.

Paul has experience in the retail and leisure industry and has conceived and created many projects across MENA and beyond. We’ve worked together for more than 30 years over multiple business genres and are both convinced of exciting times ahead. We are all driven by a clear vision and a distinct culture with a team of planners, creative minds, marketing professionals with local, regional, and international exposure.

It uses the wider Global resources at its disposal, enabling the company to deliver award winning events and activities from around the world.

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That’s remarkable. Recently you celebrated 30 years of GMG, with a celebration here in Dubai. How did the company start?

One of my part time jobs as an eighteen-year-old was working at the box office, selling shows at the Pavilion Theatre and Bournemouth International Centre (BIC).

I met the prolific theatrical producer, Paul Elliott, and he offered me a job. I saw an opportunity for theatrical merchandising, so we set up Global Marketing Group Ltd as the World’s first dedicated theatrical merchandise company in 1989.

How do you see GMG working with the Retail sector?

Malls have faced a difficult time, the retail industry is resilient, and we see how it is bouncing back. The latest data shows that the Middle East retail market’s recovery is continuing. I have always been involved in destination marketing, creating a wow, creating the unexpected, bringing people together by capturing the imagination. The market is competitive. Creating a number one destination is the key to succeed.

I believe that in a competitive market there must be a reason for the consumer’s visit. If it was just for a retail experience there is an abundance of choice, Malls are at the centre of the community, where the consumers feel a sense of belonging and part of something unique.

Do you see online as a threat to the retail industry?

Online is simple, one click and it is yours but let’s not lose sight of the fact that people love tangible, they are driven by experiences and emotions by visiting the physical destination it allows them to have a sensory experience. The Middle East malls are masters of the personalised in store shopping experience, it’s the ambience, decor and unique moments that attract this which you cannot get online.

What do you think makes the difference with GMG and what is unique about your company?

In Dubai I have strong, experienced, creative thinkers, and retail storytellers. We have some unique concepts, and I am excited at the future possibilities. Brand Loyalty is not as strong as it was a decade ago, with consumers moving between Malls like never before, consumers want more than face painting and spend and win, of course there will always be a place for this, but we look forward to sharing our ideas and concepts with our clients.

What made you decide to expand into events and activities?

Global Creative is an expansion of our activities, a continuation of what we already do successfully, around the Globe. We have existing retail clients, and we’ve been working with Malls on activations and events in Asia Pacific for some time.

Paul Hammond COO Global Creative

How does Merchandise and Event Management work together?

The Art of Banksy Exhibition is an example. Currently we are exhibiting in London, this gave us the unique opportunity to develop an extensive merchandise range to best showcase some of the most iconic works of undoubtedly, one of the most controversial and powerful artists of our time.

GMG Merchandise products were bought by thousands of Banksy exhibition goers in Melbourne, Amsterdam, Tel Aviv, Auckland, Toronto and now London as well as Chicago.

As we end, what would you like to leave as your final thought to our readers?

Are you managing a Mall or a destination?

Let GMG work with you to create a destination retail and event experience where customers Expect the Unexpected.

For more info, visit www.globalcreative.ae

Be First Be Different Be Unique Be Local Be Global

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FEATURE

NFT – A Token of

Ownership, Forever

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ovid-19 accelerated the consumers’ shift to digital shopping. The retailers & the brands had to look for leveraging the power of technology to remain relevant in the pandemic-era world, and beyond. NFT is one such next big emerging tech trend for the retail industry.

What is NFT? To put it simply - “Non-Fungible Token” or NFT, is “A digital certificate (token), issued against a unique (non-fungible) digital asset, when traded digitally”.

Umesh Agarwal

Retail Business Professional and Practitioner GUCCI acquired the much talked about Ghost GIF which it bought in $3.6K and put on sale for $16k.

McDonald’s launched NFTs for their iconic Menu Items

The owner of the asset lists it for trade on a block chain (a secure digital ledger technology) and buys NFTs against it. Thus, the token becomes available for others to bid/buy/view. Every subsequent buyer becomes the new owner while the original owner still retains and remains the owner of the physical asset forever. All the past and present details of the creator, owner(s) and the reserve price are dynamically updated and always remain accessible to all.

NFTs have some unique advantages for the Retail Industry as they can be used: By the consumers to pay for their purchases To issue against each product a consumer buys so that they own it in both physical and digital format To replace loyalty points with NFTs

The year 2017 is when the NFT came into existence with CryptoKitties, a block chain game, where each NFT was a unique digital pet.

NFT – How retailers and brands can leverage NFTs? NFTs became prevalent with the digital artwork space. With the passage of time, it creeped into other industries as well including the retail. The fashion designers and luxury fashion brands were the first ones to jump on the NFT bandwagon. Below are some classic examples of the humongous monetary benefits it offers: A digital artwork referred to as “Everydays-The First 5000 Days”, was sold in $69 Million in March 2021 at Christie’s.

Nike sold its very own, one-of-a-kind, digital sneakers. It patented a block chain enabled system called CryptoKicks.

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To customize products as per individual consumer’s preferences To create limited edition products in partnership with celebrities, artists, sports clubs etc.

To prove authenticity and fight against counterfeits To sell to raise funds for a social cause or to create an alternative revenue stream As entry invitations/tickets to exclusive events It shows that, with some innovation, retailers and brands can take advantage of the current NFT frenzy and elevate their consumer engagement & brand positioning. NFTs have the power to provide sustainable growth and work as catalyst in their “road to recovery” in a faster manner.

FEATURE

Iranian Retail Market - From Corona Crisis To Rental Campaign Advantages

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ran’s pristine retail market does not benefit much from the services and products of foreign brands due to international restrictions. As a market of more than 80 million, it tried to strengthen domestic brands and despite the spread of COVID-19, it had significant success in introducing and expanding domestic brands. In this regard, Shahrokh Keshavarz, Regional Representative of the MECS+R in Iran, the Retail People Magazine had the privileged to interview him where he described the trend of the Iranian Retail Market during the corona outbreak.

What was the impact of the Coronavirus on the Iranian retail market?

We commonly use a different methodology to identify the causal impact of the pandemic shock. We found out that during the strictest lockdown months from March to April, the year-over-year growth rate in the value of transactions dropped by 41% compared to the months before the pandemic started. Following the reopening of the economy and shopping centres in Iran from May to June, the year-over-year growth rate rolled up by 12% above the benchmark months, suggesting an accumulated demand discharge after the reopening.

What was the reaction of chain stores and brands during the covid-19 pandemic?

In the recent crisis caused by the pandemic, not only manufacturing companies but also stores have been unable to meet the mutated demands of anxious customers, and we have seen empty shelves and long queues in most department stores. The retail structures of some countries, including Turkey and Iran, were less damaged by the pandemic, and we did not see any serious crises and empty shelves in stores.

You launched a campaign to support the tenants shopping centres in Iran. This campaign has been successful in helping Iran’s Retail Industry get through these hard times with less loss. Can you enlighten us or share your thoughts on this?

Shahrokh Keshavarz

Founder & CEO, Golden Business Magazine MECS+R Regional Representative – Iran

of the economy. This can imply a persistent effect of COVID-19 on consumer preference for online shopping.

What was the development of chain stores in Iran during COVID-19?

The process of opening and operating chain stores and shopping malls in Iran were very positive even despite the widespread corona outbreak. Despite the initial shock of closure and inactivity due to the corona outbreak and with the gradual improvement of the situation, we saw the opening of chain stores even virtually. This trend accelerated after passing several dangerous corona peaks, and it can be argued that in terms of positive activities in the field of chain stores, the situation is the same as in the pre-corona era.

We have started a campaign to support the tenants of these shopping centres. With more than 50 convinced owners and managers of great shopping centres, participated to help and support their tenants. Each one assumes their social responsibility by allowing these tenants to work rent-free for 2-3 months or by substantially reducing their rent.

As a result, thousands of retailers and shopkeepers was relieved and no longer felt distressed. After being acclaimed by shopping centres and appreciated by the tenants, this campaign has swiftly brought attention to itself by drawing the attention of television channels, newspapers, and social media and has become widespread throughout the country.

How do you assess the increase in online sales following the Corona outbreak?

The COVID-19 pandemic led to a spike in online transactions of activities with online terminals. The impact continued to exist after the reopening

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FEATURE

Strategies for Success: 3 Tactics for Working with Small Tenants

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aryam just knew her idea to open a children’s bookstore in her local mall was a winner. She had never opened a store before, but it was her hobby and she knew lots of families were moving into the area. She figured it would be easy to gain potential customers. Due to the pandemic, several spaces in the mall had been vacant for almost a year and Maryam was willing to take a space with limited visibility. Daniel, the landlord, liked Maryam; she was very enthusiastic. After all, one of his best retailers had convinced him the idea would be a sure-fire hit.

Fast forward to Maryam’s opening day: When Daniel visited Maryam’s store, he realized she had tried to save money by postponing fixture delivery. Merchandising seemed scattered and her exterior sign wasn’t up. She met him at the door to ask for a deferral on her first month’s rent.

Shannon Alter, CPM Owner Leaders Exceed

What was the problem?

When times are tough, it can seem like filling a vacancy with any retailer means progress. Although it’s tempting to take the immediate solution, leasing to small tenants (under 10,000 SF) often fail due to these common challenges: inadequate finances, no business plan, faulty customer service and limited marketing strategies. Often, this means these tenants move out almost as soon as they move in.

While owners and managers cannot guarantee every retailer will succeed, they can increase the likelihood of success with 3 key tactics:

“Sometimes when

there has been a lull in the market, we just want to put a tenant in the space.

As a result, the caution we exercise in lease negotiations is thrown to the wind.

”

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Consider your tenant mix

Look at the marketing

Choose the right retailers for your center, period.

Have you ever walked into a store that seems to have a little bit of everything yet not enough of anything? Neophyte tenants with less business savvy often mistakenly think marketing is an unnecessary expense. Ultimately, this is ineffective merchandising and it can have a huge effect on the success of a retailer’s business. Because marketing isn’t everyone’s expertise, a landlord’s help can be instrumental.

Sometimes when there has been a lull in the market, we just want to put a tenant in the space. As a result, the caution we exercise in lease negotiations is thrown to the wind. Perhaps, like Daniel, we’re anxious to get a deal done and fill our vacancies - we choose an inexperienced tenant like Maryam, even though her concept may not add value to our centre’s existing mix. For instance, your location is not ideal for a particular type of business, it’s your job to choose tenants who are the best fit for your property and who are most likely to do well.

Evaluate your tenants Does your prospective tenant have an actual business plan? If not, send them back to the drawing board.

Don’t underestimate the importance of understanding not only how your new retailer’s store will be financed, but what it will take to operate it. Novice tenants may not realize that it may take time for them to show a profit and they may be ill-equipped to cover operations for the long term.

Juby Jose, Head of Marketing & Specialty Leasing for Dalma Mall in Abu Dhabi, notes: “Smaller retailers often don’t carry what’s known as a ‘sinking fund.’ If they don’t have a cushion, a reserve fund to help them absorb losses during the crisis period, they can fail.”

Juby Jose suggests first to evaluate exactly what type of marketing assistance a tenant really needs. “In our case, our mall’s customer base is 65% Emirati, it’s essential for us to be relevant in the market. For example, we will include a start-up tenant in our incubation strategy program, as a way to test their concept and see if it works. Then, we will follow it with a story on Instagram or TikTok to further enhance the marketing message. In the UAE, it’s hot outside 8 months of the year, people are indoors most of the time. This means that the mall is their favorite habitat and the marketing has to be efficient,” he added.

In today’s retail climate, it’s crucial to choose tenants who are likely to enhance your shopping centre, delight their customers and help you create value. Managers and owners who are able to refocus and follow these key strategies will be able to create successful shopping centres for the future.

Shannon Alter, CPM is a global leader, trainer and speaker who works with organizations that want to communicate with clarity.

For more information, visit www.leadersexceed.com or https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonalter/

He adds: “It’s important for the landlord to quickly determine the point of no return for a tenant and then decide if and how they can further support them. For example, during the pandemic, we offered selected rent deferrals with a repayment plan.”

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CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATES

Gregory Vogt School For Retail Professionals E-Learning Program - Level 1 Course

Asrif Sukarno

Awad Elsayed

Christine Alphonse

Esmahan Bokhowa

Ezdan Mall

Saudi Bonyan Real Estate Investment Co.

Marakez

Saar Mall

Moidin Koni KI

Mostafa Badawi

Rachel Seif

Roudaina Hassanieh

Lulu Group International

Marakez

Sahara Centre

Shivani Naik

Youssef Stino Marakez

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CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATES

Gregory Vogt School For Retail Professionals E-Learning Program - Level 2 Course

Esmahan Bokhowa

Rachel Seif

Saar Mall

Sahara Centre

CERTIFICATE OF MASTERY Congratulations to the recepients of the Gregory Vogt School for Retail Professionals E-Learning Program Certificate of Mastery for having completed all the course requirements and passed all three levels of the GVS Program examination.

For more details about the GVS E-Learning Program, visit gap.mecsc.org.

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A K-Pop weekend to remember: The Pointe stages live Super Junior performance, Korea Village and dance shows

Immersive Korean music, food and cultural festival with dedicated fountain show from 14 to 16 October Kicking off the outdoor season entertainment in style, The Pointe at Palm Jumeirah, the iconic waterfront leisure and shopping destination by Nakheel, hosted a K-Pop themed weekend of music, dance and culture, with a stunning fountain show from Thursday, 14 to Saturday, 16 October in partnership with Korean Tourism Organisation’s Dubai Office, Springs15.Com and Samyang.

Korea Village, in collaboration with Dubaibased Korean club, Choego Community, Korean Foundation for International Cultural Exchange (KOFICE) and Korean Cultural Centre in the UAE, brought Korea to The Pointe for the first time and will feature a wealth of Korean brands, products, authentic food and more. Open throughout the weekend from 4 pm to 10 pm at The Pointe’s entrance, just under the Monorail station, it became the perfect destination to experience the real Korea.

On Friday 15 October, The Pointe hosted a free, ticketed live performance from beloved South Korean boy band ‘Super Junior’, with band members Eunhyuk and Kyuhyun belting out their songs from 5:30 pm on the West promenade. See Korea’s favourite boy

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band performed hits such as ‘A Million Pieces’ and ‘You & I’’ by booking free standing tickets at Platinumlist.net.

Visitors got to enjoy a dinner with the show, featuring K-Pop dance performances and a dedicated Super Junior fountain show to end the magical night.

Omar Khoory, Chief Assets Officer at Nakheel, said: “The Pointe continues to celebrate a wealth of countries, cultures and musical talents through world-class shows and events, and we are delighted to add Korea and its music, food and traditions to our line-up of attractions for the outdoor entertainment season.”

Ms. Hyunsun Hong, Regional Director at Korea Tourism Organisation, said: “As travellers are unable to visit Korea at the moment, we are bringing Korea to Dubai by creating the Korea village featuring great activities and performances. Through this unique concept, we encourage residents to explore tourism in South Korea and visit the Korean Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai, too. We want to give UAE residents a taste of everything they could enjoy in Korea and hope to welcome them to our country soon.”

While in town, Super Junior will also explore Palm Jumeirah and its iconic destinations such as The View and newly opened St. Regis Dubai, The Palm, both located in The Palm Tower.

For more updates on new offers, events and activities on The Pointe, please visit https:// www.thepointe.ae/en and https://www. instagram.com/thepointepalm/, https:// www.facebook.com/ThePointePalm/, https://twitter.com/ThePointePalm

Summary of Korea Village Event

– Korea Village

Dates

– 14 to 16 October 2021

Timings – 4 pm to 10 pm Location – The Pointe entrance, Palm Jumeirah

Summary of Super Junior live performance Event – Super Junior Live Performance Date

– 15 October 2021

Timings – 5:30 pm to 10 pm Tickets – Platinumlist.net Location – West promenade, The Pointe, Palm Jumeirah

New Professional Credential

A mind that is stretched by a new experience can never go back to its old dimension.

Oliver Wendell Hilmes, Jr.

CXS Customer eXperience Specialist This new credential certification was carefully designed for retail and shopping center professionals who seek to understand the principles of customer experience. You will learn concrete methodology to design, build, measure, and manage positive, engaging, fulfilling, and memorable customer experiences.

The certificate of achievement earned in this course provides a credential for retail and shopping center professionals from both Senteo and MECSC+R as a Customer Experience Specialist (CXS)

The Senteo Learning Experience: LEARN - Understand the theory and mechanics behind each aspect of the methodology

SEE - Observe real world applications, examples and case studies related to each aspect of the methodology

DO - Apply the different aspects of the methodology during exercises and work groups

EXTEND - Identify and support the possibilities for real-world applications of the methodology specific to each person’s current needs

BENEFITS: Stay on top of the industry strends in Customer Experience Increase your earning potential with a new credential Grow your expertise and skills in Customer Experience Boost your professional credibility Network with a community of certified professionals

A boutique multinational consultancy that helps clients create unique and memorable customer experiences that lead to sustainable, mutually beneficial relationships.

Aldar to Create 1,000 Jobs for UAE Nationals by 2026

Aldar Properties (Aldar) will create employment opportunities for 1,000 UAE nationals over the next five years in line with the ambitious Emiratisation goals set out in the UAE’s ‘Projects of the 50’ initiative. The announcement reaffirms the company’s commitment to increase Emiratisation levels in the private sector and develop the next generation of highly skilled local talent in partnership with the UAE government to support its NAFIS programme.

A total of 200 roles will be created each year for five years across Aldar’s various subsidiarises and partner companies, with positions available for fresh graduates as well as experienced professionals.

To broaden the impact of the commitment, the 1,000 jobs created will include direct roles across Aldar’s entire business, as well as indirect roles with partners and suppliers in line with Aldar’s In Country Value (ICV) programme requirements.

Through this initiative, the company will provide local talent with progressive career opportunities in roles related to investment and development management, education, retail, and hospitality amongst others.

There will also be opportunities in specialist areas including sustainability, innovation, digital transformation, data and analytics, and sales.

“The ‘Projects of the 50’ initiative launched by the leadership of the UAE is set to guide the sustainable, long-term growth. We are proud to

play a leading role in activating the private sector’s contribution to this important initiative,” said Talal Al Dhiyebi, Group Chief Executive Officer, Aldar Properties.

Currently, UAE nationals represent half of Aldar’s executive management team and hold CEO positions at Aldar Group, Aldar Investment, Aldar Projects, and Aldar Ventures. 32% of department head roles are occupied by Emiratis, including the Strategy and Transformation, Sustainability, Marketing and Communications, Procurement, IT, Commercial, Portfolio Management, Investment Finance, and People, Culture and Performance departments. 18.7% of all senior roles in the organisation are held by Emirati women.

“With such a diversified business, Aldar presents many interesting career paths for both experienced and graduate Emiratis across our subsidiaries.

Real estate, investment, innovation, sustainability and education will play a significant role in the development of the UAE, meaning these talented Emiratis will be at the forefront of the country’s future,” said Bayan Al Hosani, Executive Director for People, Culture and Performance, Aldar Properties.

Source: Gulf News https://bit.ly/3pH00sg

UAE’s GMG Aims to Double Workforce by 2025 with Global Strategy and GMG Consumer Goods. The company has a portfolio of brands across these sectors and has introduced more than 120 brands over the last four decades. This has included representing international brands such as Nike, Vans, The North Face, and Columbia, among others.

UAE-based Gulf Marketing Group (GMG) aims to double its global workforce by 2025 with its new corporate strategy.

The company’s strategy includes a restructuring of its existing business units and introducing a new brand identity.

Mohammad A. Baker, Deputy Chairman and CEO of GMG, has confirmed that its future investments will be focused on improving people’s lives through active living, nutritious food, and good health, a statement said.

The investments will be across four business verticals: GMG Sports, GMG Food, GMG Health,

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In the food sector, the company is both a food manufacturer under GMG Food, and a distributor of food brands such as McCain, Mama Sita’s, and Shan under its GMG Consumer Goods vertical. The company has also created homegrown concepts, including Sun & Sand Sports, Supercare pharmacies, the Farm Fresh food brand, and others.

GMG currently employs around 7,000 people in 12 countries across the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia. “Whether through acquiring new international brands, developing homegrown concepts, or entering new markets, I see a future in which GMG can have a presence in every major market around the world,” Baker added.

“We recognise that communities and governments around the world are striving to progress sustainable development goals that are often anchored in personal well-being,” notes Baker. “Meanwhile, the industries we operate in are experiencing significant disruption, whether through climate change, rapid digitalisation, or other forces. We are therefore setting a new purpose-centric vision for GMG to inspire people to win in ways that make the world better, daring ourselves and others to develop better products and experiences that change lives. This is not just about the sustainability of our own business, but also of the communities we serve.”

The global wellness market has expanded considerably in recent years. According to McKinsey & Company estimates, the space is at more than $1.5 trillion with annual growth of five to 10 per cent as consumers view wellness across verticals as better health, fitness, nutrition, appearance, and more.

GMG acquired multi-brand sports retailer Royal Sporting House in December 2020, marking the company’s first expansion into Asia. Source: Gulf Business (https://bit.ly/3pCi6eO)

Saudi’s Dar Al Arkan and Katara Hospitality Join Hands to Develop Sea-Front Project in Qatar comprising residential units with direct, front line sea views coupled with modern amenities.

The project will also offer residents access to specialised retail outlets on the ground floor.

Work on the development will start in Q2 2022 and total sales are expected to reach over QR1bn.

Sheikh Nasser Bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, Managing Director, Qetaifan Projects, said: “Qetaifan Island North is being developed to become an attractive and sought-after destination with its many residential, entertainment, retail and recreational offerings that will put Qatar on the regional and global tourism map.”

Dar Al Arkan, the Saudi Arabian real estate company, and Qetaifan Projects, the Qatari real estate company owned by Katara Hospitality, have signed an agreement to develop a project

on Qetaifan Island North. The project marks Dar Al Arkan’s first entry into Qatar.

Through the partnership, Dar Al Arkan will develop a luxury project on Qetaifan Island North

Qetaifan Island North is emerging as a thriving waterfront hub representing a new, modern lifestyle. The island will feature a waterpark, luxurious hotels and accommodation, retail options and other modern facilities. Source: Gulf Business (https://bit.ly/3pAMy9i)

Saudi Arabia to Launch Enormous Oil Themed ‘Extreme Park’ attraction is being devised in line with the longterm Saudi Vision 2030’s strategy, which aims to reposition Saudi Arabia as a top international tourism destination and diversify its economy.

While millions of religious visitors make the pilgrimage to the Saudi holy city of Mecca every year, the country’s conservative laws restricting women’s freedoms, along with it troubling human rights history have made it a less than favorable destination for many international visitors.

But the country is determined to reposition itself as an alluring global hotspot that can compete with the likes of nearby Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Oman. It aims to attract 100 million tourists each year by the close of the decade.

Saudi Arabia may be trying to reduce its dependency on oil, but that hasn’t stopped the Arabic kingdom from using its petroleum industry as inspiration for a brand new tourist attraction.

The Middle Eastern country has announced plans to convert an oil rig into a 150,000 square meter “extreme park” and resort located in the Arabian Gulf.

Funded by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), The Rig will be comprised of three hotels and 11 restaurants spread over a number of connected platforms, as well as roller coaster rides and adrenaline-rush activities like bungee jumping and skydiving.

Renderings of the upcoming attraction, which aims to “provide a multitude of hospitality offerings, adventures, and aquatic sporting experiences,” along with a promotional video, were released earlier this month.

“This project is a unique tourism attraction, expected to attract tourists from around the world,” said a statement from the PIF. It said it was expected to be particularly popular with visitors from the Arabian Gulf region.

A completion date for the venture has not been stipulated.

Described as the “world’s first tourism destination inspired by offshore oil platforms,” the upcoming

Earlier this year, plans for a second national airline -- the kingdom’s current flag carrier is Saudia, formerly known as Saudi Arabian Airlines -- and to invest $147 billion into transport and logistics over nine years were confirmed by Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

News of The Rig project comes just months after plans for Six Flags Qiddiya were announced.

The site is being constructed as part of a new city situated outside capital city Riyadh and will be home to the world’s fastest roller coaster when it launches in 2023. Source: CNN (https://cnn. it/3bavCy3)

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REDTAG’s Anytime, Anywhere Exchange Service Delivers Peace of Mind

REDTAG is committed to providing each and every customer with access to updated fashion and homeware collections while delivering an affordable, value-packed and delightful shopping experience every day of the year. As part of this promise, it is going above and beyond the usual to bring shoppers unique initiatives through its #WearASmile campaign, which is sure to surprise and make them smile every step of their shopping journey.

For REDTAG, customers are its priority. To provide an exceptional and superior shopping experience means to appreciate what customers value the most.

REDTAG understands that shopping and exchanging go hand in hand. That’s why it is making your convenience its priority. So if you just purchased a gift for your trendy teen, but she wants it in a different colour or if you think that an off-white button-up would pair better than a crewneck sweater you bought, then simply head over to any of the REDTAG stores, within the country of purchase, for a stress-free exchange.

With REDTAG, you can shop with complete peace of mind knowing that you can exchange any of your purchases, anytime, anywhere.

The Anytime, Anywhere Exchange brand promise comes with the following benefits: Absolutely no time limits on exchange so you can bring your item back to the store anytime; the option to exchange

anywhere across any store within the country of purchase; and a no-questions-asked policy, which means it will take back anything that is in good saleable condition.

REDTAG offers the Anytime, Anywhere Exchange across all its stores in the region, making it the only value fashion retail brand in the GCC to offer this service.

So now you can shop with confidence, knowing that REDTAG will gladly help you out if you change your mind about your purchase.

But that’s not all.

Keeping customers at the heart of its new #WearASmile initiative, REDTAG has launched several other services designed to delight you and provide an engaging shopping experience. From Find your Size and Personal Stylist to Instant Gifts and Free Home Delivery, REDTAG is committed to exceeding your expectations with its #WearASmile programme.

Click here to watch one of the many brand promises that will make you smile.Source: Gulf News (https://bit.ly/3mexQm8)

Savola completes acquisition of Bayara Holding across the Middle East and Africa.

Savola Foods acquired 100% of Bayara for $260 million in cash. The acquisition is pivotal to Savola’s growth strategy focused on expansion into high growth, value-added food categories with propositions directed towards younger population.

Savola Group, a leading investment holding company with focus on food and retail sectors, and Spicemen have announced the completion of the acquisition of Bayara Holding by Savola Foods Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of Savola Group.

In the Middle East and North Africa; Levant Capital, an investment management firm based in Dubai;, With nearly three decades of operations, Bayara is a leading packaged foods company based in the UAE offering a wide range of nuts, spices, dried fruits, pulses and snacks with a distribution network spanning across Saudi Arabia, the UAE and more than thirty other countries

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Bayara brings well-established sourcing and go-to-market capabilities together with strong potential for synergies with Savola Foods. Its business is driven by the prevailing trend towards achieving a healthy lifestyle and a growing younger population.

Bayara recorded net sales of approximately SR420 million for the twelve-month period ending in March 2021 with a healthy mid-teens EBITDA margin.

Waleed Fatani, Savola Group CEO stated: “The acquisition of Bayara represents a strategic addition to Savola Group, and a demonstration of our commitment to continue growing Savola’s portfolio with future focused businesses. It

reinforces our overarching focus on growth and delivering long-term value creation for our shareholders.”

Sameh Hassan, CEO of Savola Foods, added: “the acquisition of Bayara comes within the strategy framework of Savola Foods, which aims to diversify our business through focused expansions, primarily benefiting from the increased spending on healthy food trends. We are seeking to introduce and drive this new business under Savola Foods through regional expansion while strengthening and consolidating our base in the UAE.” “We are excited that Bayara will be joining the Savola Foods team. Bayara has achieved remarkable success over the past thirty years, and we look forward to building on this strong foundation to continue this momentum through this next stage,” said Jean Marc Lourau, CEO of Bayara.

Eversheds Sutherland acted as legal advisor to Savola Foods and EY was retained for financial advisory and finance & tax diligence. Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer acted as legal advisor to Levant Capital and Spicemen. Source: TradeArabia News Service (https://bit.ly/3Ck819R)

Dubai’s Emirates Airline To Take In 6,000+ Operational Staff, Including Pilots

Emirates Airline plans to boost its operational workforce by recruiting more than 6,000 staff over the next six months. Additional pilots, cabin crew, engineering specialists and ground staff will be needed to support the airline’s ramp up of operations across its global network in response to the soonerthan-expected surge in customer demand, the airline said in a statement. It has already restored 90 per cent of its network and is on track to reaching 70 per cent of its pre-pandemic capacity by the end of 2021.

The airline is supplementing its flight schedules with increased frequencies to meet the pent-up demand.

It is also deploying its high-capacity double-decker A380 aircraft on popular routes around its network.

By November, Emirates will offer more than 165,000 additional seats on its flagship A380 aircraft. Source: Gulf News (https://bit.ly/3GgENeu)

Expo 2020 Dubai Welcomes 1.47 Million Visits in First 24 Days

The numbers were backed by Expo’s Space Week, music and cultural performances, a public holiday long weekend and the half-term school break.

Shedding spotlight on the space sector, Dubai Chamber of Commerce, the UAE Space Agency and the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre staged a series of debates on the challenges and opportunities offered by the commercialisation of the sector. The themed week also featured nebula music, star-gazing and a chance for visitors to hear from the UAE’s first astronauts – the first female Emirati astronaut, Nora Al Matrooshi, and the first Emirati in space, Hazza Al Mansouri. The Knights, the UAE’s aerobatic display team, and their Saudi counterparts the Saudi Falcons, also staged a show in the skies above the Expo site, a statement said.

Source: Gulf Business (https://bit.ly/2ZsNIc4)

Carrefour Opens New AI-Powered Checkout-Free Store in Dubai’s Mall of the Emirates

UAE shopping mall operator Majid Al Futtaim has launched the region’s first checkout-free store, Carrefour City+, at Dubai’s Mall of the Emirates. The store, which uses artificial intelligence technology, allows shoppers to access the store by using the app on their phones, pick up products and exit the store without having to pay at any counter. Store access and shopping payment is enabled via the current MAF Carrefour App. The store – the first such Carrefour worldwide, has 97 cameras in-store to identify products, improve inventory management and track the movements of customers. The cameras are powered by a combination of computer vision and machine learning to follow a shopper’s movement inside the store. They use tracking technology to identify shoppers through their body structure, and do not record any facial recognition or biometric data, according to the company. Source: Gulf Business (https://bit.ly/3zURF6G)

Saudi Arabia: Face Masks No Longer Required to be Worn in Most Public Spaces

Saudi Arabia has introduced sweeping new measures to ease Covid-19 restrictions in the country in light of a fall in the number of reported cases in the country. Starting Sunday, October 17, an official source at the Ministry of Interior said that wearing masks is no longer mandatory in open places, except for the excluded places, while continuing to be mandatory in closed areas. A separate set of easing of restrictions will apply to those who have received both doses of the vaccine. For these individuals, there will be no social distancing measures for them to observe at social gatherings, in public places, means of transportation, restaurants, and cinemas. These spaces will also be allowed to operate at full capacity.

Furthermore, there will no longer be any restrictions on the number of attendees of at events in wedding halls.

Source Gulf Business(Read More: https://bit.ly/3bc7drL)

Starbucks Plans New Shop Formats for India to Fast-Track Expansion

Starbucks aims to hasten its India expansion with smaller shops and drive-through outlets, the Chief Executive of its local partner said on Monday, signalling the American coffee chain’s bullish plans as the Covid-19 slowdown abates in the country.

Launched in India in 2012, Tata Starbucks – a joint venture between Starbucks and India’s Tata Consumer Products – operates 233 outlets across 19 Indian cities.

The company is now exploring smaller-sized outlets as they can be opened faster and it is experimenting with concepts like drive-throughs after opening one in northern India last year, Mr D’Souza said. Starbucks registered 128% revenue growth in the quarter ending in September, during which it opened 14 new outlets.

“Am I happy with 14? Absolutely not. The target’s much more,” Mr D’Souza said. The aim was to open 40-50 outlets this year, he said. Source: The National (https://bit.ly/3jEkXjw)

Alabbar Reveals $2bn Investment Plans for e-commerce Platform Noon

Founder of e-commerce venture Noon, Mohamed Alabbar, has revealed ambitions to invest a further $2 billion in the digital marketplace over the next three years in order to reach a goal of delivery to customers within 15-20 minutes. Originally launched in Riyadh, the platform was brought to life by Alabbar four years ago in a joint venture with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) and a group of prominent Gulf investors, with an initial capital outlay of $1bn. He said the new investment would be a 50-50 split between himself and his investors, and the PIF. “I’m happy where we are, but ahead of us is very challenging because now we have to do 15-20 minutes delivery, which is a big infrastructure change for us.” Noon currently operates in Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Egypt, although Alabbar said further plans include taking the platform throughout the entire region. Source: Arabian Business (https://bit.ly/3uR4Rrz)

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