RETAIL PEOPLE MAGAZINE ISSUE 30 – NEW BEGINNINGS

Featuring:

MESHAAL BIN OMAIRH GROUP CEO AL OTHAIM INVESTMENT CO.

The Rebirth of Retail in Saudi Arabia “As one of the market-leading mall operators in the Kingdom, Al Othaim intends to become the region’s 1st choice community shopping and entertainment destination for both tenants and shoppers.”

P14

ROSHN

Integrating Retail & Communities in Saudi Arabia

P16

HAMAT HOLDING

Announces New Expansions in 2022

P18

CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN

Building a Digital Future

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 1,700 LOCATIONS WORLDWIDE

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

©2021 WF LLC.

CONTENTS CONTENT

CONTENTS FEATURED MEMBER 52 One-on-One with….

Mohammed Al Mazrouie, Dalma Mall

06

MECS+R MEMBER’S SEGMENT 54 Honoring Gregory Vogt School (GVS) Graduates

NEWS BRIEF 56 Mall of Muscat Wins Prestigious ‘Most Trusted Brand in Oman’ Award

14 04 WELCOME REMARKS ON THE COVER 06 The Rebirth of Retail In Saudi Arabia Featuring: Meshaal Bin Omairh The Group CEO of Al Othaim Investment Co.

SPECIAL RETAIL UPDATES 10 Reimagining Retail with Metaverse SHOPPING CENTRE UPDATE

UAE Retailer GMG to Open More Than 100 Stores in Egypt by 2026

57 Dubai Hills to Enhance Consumer Shopping Experience

Starbucks Celebrates Bluewaters Island Reserve Store: Its 1,000th in the MENA

58 Aldar Marks Ras Al Khaimah Entry, Acquires Al Hamra Mall for Dh410 Million

Saudi Pharmacy Chain Al-Dawaa Targets to Exceed 1000 Stores After $500m IPO

60 Saudi Alhokair to Leverage Microfinance Across its Wide Retail Network, says CEO

Luxury Global Hospitality Brands Open Up on Saudi Red Sea Coastline in Flurry of Announcements

WHAT’S NEW?

14 How ROSHN is Integrating Retail and Communities in Saudi Arabia

16 Hamat Holding Announces New Expansions

in 2021 - Rosstat

18 City Centre Bahrain Building a Digital Future

Lalaport to Make Southeast Asian Debut in Malaysia

in 2022

20 Value Shopping Evolution – Dubai Outlet Mall

Christian Baldonanza Digital Media & Innovation Manager

connect@mecsc.org

Justin Espiritu

Relationship and Business Development Manager publishing@mecsc.org

SPECIAL FEATURE 22 The MECS+R….World Class Since 1994 EVENTS GALLERY 24 A Glimpse of the 27th Anniversary Celebration of the Retail Congress MENA 2021 – The Year of New Opportunities

32 RCM 2021 MENA Shopping Centre & Retailer Award Winners

FEATURED ARTICLES 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 2022 issue or share your comments, suggestions or ideas, contact customercare@mecsc.org

64 Russia’s Retail Trade Turnover up 7.3% YOY

44 From Beta to Meta; The Metaverse and How it will Affect the Shopping Mall Industry

45 Social Media Trends For 2022

Thailand’s Central Retail Eyes Metaverse in 43bn Drive to Double Sales Amazon is Officially a Supermarket, Much to its Chagrin Urban Outfitters Full-Year Sales Surge, Names new North America President Pepkor Expands to South America with Acquisition of Brazil’s Avenida: SA

65 Kohl’s Promises 400 New Sephora Shop-inShops

Sales of Top India Retailers Surpass Pre- Covid Levels BRAVO, One of Largest Retail Chains in Azerbaijan, Automating Sale Processes with Set Products

46 Shifting Trends: The Key to a Successful

Naivas to Open Stores at Greenspan, Imara Malls

48 AI in Real Estate

Zomato Leases Office Space

50 Collaboration is Key to Creating World-

Dolce & Gabbana Relaunching Beauty with An Eye on Gen-Z

Retail Business

Class Retail Destinations

Disclaimer: The viewpoints, articles and opinions contained in the Retail People Magazine are not necessarily those of MECS+R. RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.3

WELCOME

WELCOME

Featuring:

MESHAAL BIN OMAIRH

“The start of something NEW brings the hope of something GREAT…Anything is Possible.”

GROUP CEO AL OTHAIM INVESTMENT CO.

The Rebirth of Retail in Saudi Arabia “As one of the market-leading mall operators in the Kingdom, Al Othaim intends to become the region’s 1st choice community shopping and entertainment destination for both tenants and shoppers.”

P14

ROSHN

Integrating Retail & Communities in Saudi Arabia

P16

HAMAT HOLDING

Announces New Expansions in 2022

P18

Let’s welcome 2022 by celebrating our success in 2021!

CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN

Building a Digital Future

A Big Thank You for attending our 27th Annual Retail Congress MENA Event and the Shopping Centre & Retailer Awards held in December. After two years of not meeting together in our live event, we were blessed with your support. We are grateful to have enjoyed the window of opportunity to host our RECON Conference. The importance of the time to meet our industry friends and colleagues is immeasurable. We were able to catch up face to face again during the 2-day event where we laughed, talked, and connected with one another. In 2022 we are planning more of our important face to face events regionally.

ON THE COVER MESHAAL BIN OMAIRH

Group CEO Al Othaim Investment & Co.

YOUNUS AL MULLA MECS+R Chairman Dubai, UAE

Through our communication and collaboration over the last two years, we have learned that we are better and stronger. In hindsight we excelled in 2020 and 2021. As a strong organization, we can now move from strength to strength to bring people together to continue to share information, knowledge and experiences.

We continue to grow our leadership, our circles of influence, our alliances, and our results at the MECS+R. Everything and everyone is connected locally, regionally and globally.

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

Today, we are proud to release the Q1 Retail People Magazine Issue of 2022 themed “NEW BEGINNINGS.” We encourage you to read this edition from cover to cover.

We are honoured to have a long-standing supporter and partner, Al Othaim Investment Co. featured.

Mr. Meshaal bin Omairh, the Group CEO of Al Othaim Investment Co. is our cover story. Meshaal highlights the future plans of Al Othaim as they become the region’s 1st choice community shopping and entertainment destination for both tenants and shoppers.

We are fortunate to have amazing support again from our members who have authored very relevant stories about the latest trends in retail and shopping centres. Metaverse is grabbing headlines. Surbhi Dedhia gave her insights on how Retail Industry and brands leverage through Metaverse while Vanessa Hinton speaks about how Metaverse will affect the retail industry.

KAMEL SHABAN

CEO, SOLO MECS+R Board Vice President

JUBY JOSE

In Shopping Centre Update, Lee Talbott from Riyadh shared how ROSHN is integrating retail and communities in Saudi Arabia. Hamat Holding announced new expansions in 2022. Duaij Al Rumaihi highlights how City Centre Bahrain prides itself on delivering the latest digital experiences to their customers. Dubai Outlet Mall announces opening timelines for its expansion this year. It will be the largest Outlet Mall in the world.

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

In this issue we featured articles from Zaib Shadani who provides a list of the social media trends to watch for. How to maintain a leadership position in social media in 2022. Meanwhile, Nathalie Beydoun delivered her thoughts on shifting trends being the key to a successful retail business.

ALESSANDRO GAFFURI

From Yardi, technology keeps advancing. Said Haider explains AI and how it is used in Real Estate.

David Fuller-Watts stresses that collaborations are key to creating world-class retail destinations.

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

On a lighter note, Phil McArthur penned an article about how the shopping centre and retail industry has expanded and transitioned during the past years. Phil reminds us why MECS+R exists and as a founding father how and why the organization was originally formed.

We also feature RECON event photos and recognize the winners of the MENA Awards 2021.

Finally, we have an exclusive interview with Mohammed Al Mazrouie, the 2021 Gold Winner Award for the Retail Professional of the Year.

We hope you enjoy reading this issue as much as the team at MECS+R have enjoyed bringing it to you.

Once again, thank you for supporting us on every issue of our Retail People Magazine

MOHAMMED AL QAED

Manager, Property Management SEEF Properties MECS+R Board Member

SAMAR AKKOU

Senior Leasing Manager Nakheel Malls MECS+R Board Member

DAVID MACADAM

Chief Executive Officer MECS+R

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.4

Eng. Wail M. Balkhair Board President MECS+R

O

COVER STORY

THE REBIRTH OF RETAIL IN

SAUDI ARABIA A

l Othaim Investment Co. is one of the leading mall operators and developers in Saudi Arabia and, just like the Kingdom, it is rapidly changing. The company has a newly appointed Group CEO, Meshaal Ibrahim Bin Omairh. He is committed to disrupting the retail industry while continuing to draw on the family values instilled in the business by his predecessors, Mr. Fahad Al Othaim and his father, Sheikh Abdullah Al Othaim.

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.6

Meshaal explains, “Al Othaim Investments is dedicated to the sustainable development of Saudi Arabia in line with Vision 2030.

Driven by the values and beliefs of a family business, building on the success of Abdullah Al Othaim, the company’s new corporate governance with the new leadership team is committed to excellence and innovation while delivering significant socioeconomic benefits for the Kingdom.”

The company’s main commercial activity focuses on the establishment, operation and management of successful commercial complexes. With over fifty million annual visitors, these sites provide some of the most important entertainment, leisure and recreation destinations in Saudi Arabia.

Al Othaim’s Market-Leading Position In The Kingdom Meshaal aims to cement Al Othaim’s position as a longstanding pillar of the Kingdom’s society while continuing to channel investments into the economy, supporting local communities as a result.

Currently, Al Othaim owns ten commercial complexes under the “Al Othaim Mall” name, two of which are located in Riyadh where the first mall opened over two decades ago. Three complexes were developed in the Al Qassim region, in the Eastern Province, and commercial complexes in Hail and Arar respectively. New projects are currently in the development pipeline in Riyadh, Dammam, Jubail and Al Kharj.

An ambitious expansion strategy will see the company add 20 new commercial complexes to be opened by 2030. These new projects will be located across the Kingdom in new communities for Al Othaim Investments. New projects are planned in Jubail, Khobar, Jeddah, Makkah, Madinah, Tabuk, Al Methneb, Al Kharj, Abha, Jizan,Yanbu, Sakaka, and Qatif.

A Unique Customer Offering Under the Al Othaim umbrella many businesses thrive including international and local F&B brands, family entertainment centres, fitness centres, cinemas and fashion brands for our customers. The company operates a number of subsidiaries:

Abdullah Al Othaim Entertainment Company Has forty entertainment centres in its portfolio in the Kingdom and across the MENA region. The company manages a distinctive brand collection including Saffori Land, FabyLand, The Chamber, Snow City, My Town, XtremeLand, Xtreme Zone and Action Zone. New custom VR gaming centres are soon to be added and opened this year.

Abdullah Al Othaim Fashion Company Manages and operates fashion retail brands. Acquired franchises of many international brands, including Kiabi of France, the Italian brand OVS, the Swiss Tally Weijl, and the Portuguese brand Parfois. Many more new and exciting fashion brands are joining the line-up and are opening in 2022.

Abdullah Al Othaim Food Company Focused on the food and beverage sector in the Kingdom.

Restaurants and cafes include Moka and More Café, Oliver Brown Chocolate Café, Dallah Café, Buns House, Just Orange and Kabablaky. Many more new F&B brands are joining the line-up ready to open in 2022.

Wamda Company for Cinemas Operates premium cinemas with brand franchise rights to Empire Cinemas in the Kingdom. Empire Cinemas are planning to operate many cinemas in the coming years in Al Othaim Malls in cities across Saudi Arabia.

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.7

COVER STORY

As the head of this impressive portfolio, Meshaal is laser-focused on delivering the company’s aspiration to create engaging, vibrant, and integrated mixed-use communities for retailers and shoppers. His leadership is centred on breaking the ‘old’ mould of the retail business, as well as improving each of the community’s quality of life.

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.8

It’s no easy feat, but we believe that as a company we can accomplish this ambition. Our long heritage in the Kingdom and our strong focus on delivering what the people of Saudi Arabia need are helping to propel us forward.

Under New Leadership Meshaal is one of Saudi Arabia’s most successful business leaders.

He brings 26 years of relevant experience with a deep knowledge of the private sector in the Kingdom and internationally.

His resume includes senior executive roles as Chairman, CEO, and Board Member for many prominent businesses in Saudi and internationally including: Mohammed Abdulaziz Al-Rajhi and Sons Investment Co, Al-Rajhi Steel Industries Co, the International Beverage Company, the Saudi Tourism Development Company, Daem Real Estate Investment Co. and TAQA Co. Multinational corporations include Pratt & Whitney and Air Liquide.

His strategy based, forward-thinking business outlook is driven by a desire to achieve the best results for Al Othaim. Meshaal’s core approach is long-term strategic thinking, organizational development, while implementing an integrated strategy across all business units. He also brings an experienced eye for mergers and acquisitions.

Al Othaim aims to create and operate the largest retail digital footprint regionally. “It’s no easy feat, but we believe that as a company we can accomplish this ambition. Our long heritage in the Kingdom and our strong focus on delivering what the people of Saudi Arabia need are helping to propel us forward,” says Meshaal.

Today is an exciting time for Al Othaim as Meshaal guides the company to new heights. A new corporate governance strategy driven by an experienced leadership team will guide and grow the company. Al Othaim is staying true to its roots, while expanding its portfolio. At its heart, the company is driven by long established values while flourishing in the rapidly expanding Saudi Arabia retail market.

The Group CEO’s unique skillset was not just built during his professional career, but also during his time studying at King Saud University, majoring in accounting. INSEAD in France tops off his academic qualifications majoring in corporate governance and global management.

Looking to the future, Meshaal believes that retail is being reborn in Saudi Arabia, “As one of the market-leading mall operators in the Kingdom, Al Othaim intends to become the region’s 1st choice community shopping and entertainment destination for both tenants and shoppers”. In order to achieve this, Al Othaim wants to be the meeting place for the community – a multipurpose, mixed-use destination with integrated office, residential, leisure and cultural amenities. Our intention is to provide all visitors and tenants with an interactive and truly integrated experience.

Using Innovation To Respond To Change Recognizing that both the market and Saudi society are changing, Meshaal is keen to keep pace with the Kingdom’s ever-growing dynamism. The company will increasingly integrate incubator and pop-up shops into its retail-mix providing community engagement. According to Meshaal, “This will provide an exciting experience for consumers in our communities while integrating well with our wide range of in-house brands. Many disruptive initiatives will be reflected throughout the Al Othaim portfolio.”

The company is also committed to the digital integration of mobile technology across the company. Integration of technology throughout all businesses has accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic, when virtual shopping experiences became popular with consumers. The combination of bricks and mortar experiential venues plus online trade choices will be crucial to serving younger, digitally native consumers while creating new revenue streams for the company.

Meshaal Bin Omairh

Group CEO

Al Othaim Investment Co.

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.9

SPECIAL RETAIL UPDATES

Reimagining Retail with Metaverse expressions etc. You may argue that today Zoom also allows you to see participants but the Metaverse allows you to be in the same room with them. You do not have to look at different windows as you do now. What you may miss is the coffee, but you’ll have to drink it in your real world anyways.

Similarly, the opportunities are endless be it travel, banking and even in the retail sector.

W

hen I first read in the news that Facebook has changed their name to Meta, I dismissed it thinking that it is a PR stunt to escape the bad publicity it was receiving at the time. Timing-wise, perhaps it was true but the name change also reflected what else was happening around in the world.

Today, the term ‘Meta’ or ‘Metaverse’ is a popular keyword. It is everywhere.

So, what is Metaverse?

Metaverse means shared virtual 3D worlds that are interactive, immersive and collaborative. Just as how our physical world is a collection of worlds that are interconnected in a space. One may think we are all connected via phones or computers, but the Metaverse is much more beyond being connected online with our devices. Imagine our world, planet Earth, mirrored in digital, where human profiles are avatars, office spaces, homes and everything else can be mirrored.

Let me give you some examples to get the concept.

Imagine that you want to get a makeover and are looking at different hairstyles, wardrobe options and looks. You put on a VR goggle and walk into a virtual space where you can try out different outfits and looks. Then you can even see matching accessories on it. Obviously, you may not be able to smell perfumes or feel the texture of the clothes but you’ll get a rough idea of the new look. Will this experience help you decide on your new look?

You have a business meeting with people from several countries, everyone puts on their goggles and enter a virtual meeting room. You can see everyone in the same place, talking, making

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.10

Now that you have an idea of what the Metaverse is and how it may improve (or impact) our lives, let’s zoom into the Retail industry and how brands are already leveraging the Metaverse.

1. Embracing Virtual Reality to Enhance Customer Experience Sephora is a well-known brand for make-up products.

Beauty products traditionally relied on their sales teams to drive revenue. However, in order to stay with the times, Sephora has adopted Virtual Reality (VR) to meet its customer’s needs digitally. Sephora’s mobile app allows users to try out products from home. The app uses facial recognition to allow customers to see how the products look on them.

With VR, retailers can simulate an immersive environment that customers wouldn’t otherwise experience online.

The interactive 3D world provides a compelling real-time experience akin to real life. VR helps to reduce returns and improve the quality of products through instant feedback data.

2. Expanding Total Addressable Market A whole new avenue for luxury brand marketing and sales has opened up through digital avatars. Luxury brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Marc Jacobs and Valentino offer players to put their branded items on their avatars in games like Roblox and League of Legends. This early adoption is allowing luxury brands to expand their target audience to younger populations.

3. Brand Communications in Metaverse Gaming as an engagement tool has a huge potential in Metaverse. Retail brands like Hellmann’s partnered with the Animal Crossing game by Nintendo to create awareness around food wastage. Animal Crossing players can explore new islands and convert their food waste into real nutritious meals for people in need in the real world. Consumer brands like P&G have partnered with Animal Crossing game to create realistic skin types like cellulite, stretch marks, acne etc. through their My Skin, My Way program.

With Metaverse, brands are able to run targeted brand communications programs to a specific target audience.

4. Engaging Audiences with AR Proactive retail brands are leveraging Augmented Reality (AR) as a tool to engage their audiences in the remote world.

Brands like IKEA, Walmart offer options to experience their products in AR mode. AR helps brands to enhance their customer’s in-store and online experience.

One way Toys R Us leveraged AR is through an in-store experience of a digital playground through the Play Chaser app. Kids can do things like visit a basketball station to shoot hoops via the swipe of a screen and compare scores with other players on a leaderboard.

AR can make it easier to shop online compared to in-store since shoppers can visualize the products in their actual spaces.

5. Brands and Non-Fungible Tokens No talk about the Metaverse is complete without talking about Non-Fungible Tokens or NFTs. Brands are increasingly seen launching their NFTs as a possible all-new way of marketing. Non-fungible tokens are digital assets like bitcoin, only they’re unique and irreplaceable, like owning an original work of art online. Some NFTs hold monetary value, some can be worn digitally and others connect owners to communities.

Surbhi Dedhia Founder & Director Digital Genie

Surbhi is a seasoned marketer who loves to keep up with new technologies. Over her two decades of international work experience, Surbhi has supported many brands to leverage modern marketing techniques to bring valuable business results. Surbhi is also the host of the Making of a Thought Leader podcast, where she aims to encourage entrepreneurs and executives to build their thought leadership systematically.

Subscribe to her podcast on your favourite podcast player or podcast.digitalgenie.co

Brands such as Nike, GAP, Crockpot, Taco Bell, Campbell’s and Twitter have leaped into NFTs and many others are following suit.

What is fascinating about NFTs is that they could be both a product and a marketing tool.

The product can be a digital asset that encapsulates some form of creativity or a moment in time. And for marketing, it can help overall brand building, promotional tool and also generate immediate awareness for a brand.

With so many possibilities for retail brands to communicate with their customers digitally, I think the Metaverse is here to stay. As a marketeer, I see umpteen opportunities for brands within the Metaverse. What do you think? I’d like to hear your thoughts at Surbhi@digitalGenie.co

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.11

JEDDAH’S LEADING RETAIL DESTINATION With over 18 million visitors per year, more than 600 retail stores, 12 cinema screens, 5 entertainment centers and 73 F&B outlets; The Red Sea Mall is Jeddah and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s leading retail destination and surely the ideal home for your brand.

www.redseamall.com

SHOPPING CENTRE UPDATE

How ROSHN is Integrating Retail and Communities in Saudi Arabia

R

oshn Real Estate is a master developer and the largest real estate development company in the Kingdom, fully owned by the Public Investment Fund and its Board of Directors and chaired by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud. Roshn is focused on meeting the growing demand for housing in the Kingdom.

The Retail People Magazine had a one-on-one interview with Lee Talbott, Director-Retail Portfolio at Roshn Real Estate. Lee has worked in the Retail Industry for over 30 years in London, Sydney, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, Shanghai and Saudi for the last 3 years. Lee has overseen the master planning and leasing of everything from community malls to Super Regional Malls including Yas Mall and Mall of Qatar for major developers including Nakheel, Aldar, Landmark, Msheireb Downtown Doha, MiSK City and now ROSHN. Let’s hear more from Lee about ROSHN and how it is integrating retail communities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Q ROSHN is becoming a household name in Saudi Arabia, but it is not so familiar across the wider Gulf Region. Can you tell us about ROSHN and their mandate?

Lee: ROSHN is a private sector community development company created and owned by Public Investment Fund and was launched in August 2020. The company’s mandate is to deliver high quality integrated communities that improve the quality of life for Saudi citizens and transform urban living in the Kingdom.

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.14

Q What kind of scale are we looking at?

Lee: ROSHN has committed to making a substantial contribution to the Vision 2030 goal of reaching 70% homeownership for Saudi families. With a young population driving rapid growth in new households, we need to deliver a whole new level of supply to meet the national goals.

We are currently master planning around 200 million m2 located across the Kingdom. For example, one of our first projects, Sedra in Riyadh will have over 30,000 housing units when completed.

Q What is your approach to community retail?

Lee: It really starts with our whole concept of people-friendly, fully-integrated communities. Our masterplans are designed to create pedestrian-friendly public spaces and pathways, and we will be building micro-mobility into the strategy.

We will be enhancing typical municipal services with additional landscaping, recycling, security, pest control and cleaning of public spaces. Each of our communities will have a whole network of pathways, play areas and small parks.

In addition to a full range of public services and infrastructure, our retail hierarchy will be completely different from what is available in Saudi cities. Whereas most community retail here has been developed as strip centres on the edge of large urban blocks, ROSHN is locating clusters and plazas in the middle of neighbourhoods and districts. They are strategically

collocated with public spaces and amenities and designed to be convenient for pedestrians and cyclists as well as cars. The aim is to incorporate these assets into the daily life of our residents, thereby enhancing the quality of their living experience.

Q How is ROSHN looking to deliver this program?

Lee: We have created an asset management department which will be responsible for leasing and property management of our income-producing assets. This includes retail, residential, mixeduse and other asset classes. Our aim is that our income-producing portfolio will be a strategic part of the business, creating value for our owners and the community.

Q Any other innovations in your approach?

Lee: We have created a team dedicated to digital strategy.

They will be creating a digital platform for our communities and resident experience. I am working closely with them to build a platform for our retail tenants and merchants to communicate and trade.

Q Tell us about your role.

Lee: As Director of the Retail Portfolio, it is my job to work with the master planning teams from an early stage to integrate all retail elements into our communities from an early stage, and once completed, to oversee the leasing property management and marketing of these assets.

We are looking to create leasing relationships with retail, food & beverage and leisure tenants, but I am also exploring other business models for ROSHN to be involved across different verticals as partners or operators.

Lee Talbott

Director - Retail Portfolio Roshn Real Estate

We believe that our communities present a strategic opportunity for retailers to create new relationships with Saudi households who are emerging as one of the most interesting cultural and demographic stories anywhere in the world right now.

The future of retailing in Saudi has never been better, get in touch to find out more about how to join ROSHN!

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.15

SHOPPING CENTRE UPDATE

Hamat Holding Announces New Expansions in 2022

T

he maturity of the Saudi real estate market and the dynamics of the economic scene in the country led to a state of correction that resulted in the emergence of specialized commercial property management companies, most notably for the major commercial centers.

Upon a strategic alliance between the specialized Saudi companies in the field, the year 2012 witnessed the birth of Hamat Holding Company as one of the key players in the field of Commercial Centers’ development, management, and operation in the Kingdom.

Hamat Holding relies on a long professional legacy that is the product of an alliance of giant economic entities that have an influential record in the area’s economy movement, which enabled it to generate mature and integrated visions and goals to be one of the largest companies specialized in managing and operating commercial centers.

Both malls’ tenants and owners feel the importance of specialized management by a company with potential and

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.16

an ambitious desire to move forward in the paths of success.

Through even a quick reading of the brand names that have showrooms and stores in Hamat Malls, it becomes clear the extent of the specialized management impact in serving large and upscale brands that preferred to partner with an entity that operates through an approach.

From Abha and Jazan in the far south of Saudi Arabia to Tabuk in the north, to Jeddah, Madinah, and the eastern region, to Riyadh, the malls and plazas managed and operated by Hamat Holding are spread and distributed through a well-thought-out vision that takes into account the demographic aspects of the population in the vast Saudi cities.

This expansion meets the need of retail stores and major brands in order to be present in most of the Kingdom cities to achieve its plans for expansion. Through the specialized work team, and technical and professional methods, Hamat Holding was able to own all these records of continuous expansion.

volume of SR2.7 billion ($719 million). The agreement, which was signed by Yasser Abu Atiq, CEO of Umm Al-Qura for Development and Construction and Eng. Saleh Al-Habib, Hamat Holding’s Chairman, provides for the development of the mall’s facilities and amenities, creating many direct and indirect job opportunities. The mall will be developed over a 71,000 squaremeter area and will provide more than 130,000 square meters of shopping space. The development is located at the western entrance of the Masar destination, a cultural project in the western part of Makkah, opposite the Haramain train station.

It is also easily accessible through the Third Ring Road and King Abdul Aziz north and south roads. The mall will feature “many specifications and advanced equipment, which reflect an exceptional value for investment and establish unique horizons in the Kingdom’s shopping and entertainment industry” the partnership statement said.

The Park

Taif City, KSA

Moreover, the company has two new upcoming projects in 2022 The Park in Taif City and The Village in Jeddah. The Park Mall comes as a result of Hamat strategy to create social and entertainment environments which was directly reflected in the concept of this project which extends over an area of 29 thousand square meters. Taif City is distinguished by its charming location, which makes it summer destination for tourist and has a population of 1,750,000 million people, and the number of its visitors exceeds 3 million annually. The city is also a link between the vital and important places in the western region and considered the eastern gate of the Holy Mosques through Mecca.

The Village Jeddah, KSA

The Park is connected by a bridge with the only university in Taif where the number of its students and employees is 46,958 thousand and it is only 10 minutes away from Taif regional airport.

Meanwhile, the Village Mall in Jeddah is located on the fastest growing neighborhoods in the city. As a result of this organic growth, the mall will gain an exclusive market in its core catchment area, with a high Retail Potential/Capita.

Eng. Saleh Al-Habib and Mr. Yasser Abu Atiq during the signing agreement to develop the largest mall in Makkah by 2026

In fact, Jeddah as a city offers a sizeable inflow of domestic and international tourists. The mall and the attached hotel will be a natural destination especially for those coming for leisure or stopping over after religious trips. The Village also benefits from being surrounded by existing and new master plans. The proposed center can distinguish itself by being positioned as a “meeting point” or a “day outing destination” with a significant proportion of F&B, outdoor play and seating areas.

Hamat Holding, nevertheless, has recently signed the partnership agreement for the Masar Mall which involves Umm Al-Qura for Development and Construction Company and Hamat Holding.

The Project is set to be completed in 2026 with an investment

Masar Mall Project to be completed in 2026

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.17

SHOPPING CENTRE UPDATE

CITY CENTRE

BAHRAIN

A

BUILDING A DIGITAL FUTURE

s one of the most dynamic and successful retailers in the region, Majid Al Futtaim franchises some of the world’s best-known brands, making them flourish in new markets across the Middle East and North Africa.

Majid Al Futtaim operates with a uniquely wide range of sectors, offering consumers the latest and most recognizable names in Fashion & Footwear, Food, Health & Beauty, Pharmacy, Optics, Home Furnishings, and Leisure & Entertainment.

City Centre Bahrain, the premier shopping, entertainment, and lifestyle destination in the Kingdom delivers over 340 brands spread across 158,000 sqm to 14 million visitors every year. City Centre Bahrain always strives to create great moments for all mall visitors through its unique and first of a kind annual campaign, offers, and promotions.

Yet, COVID-19 has been a global business disrupter, bringing unforeseen changes – not just to Majid Al Futtaim – but across industries and geographies. It had a massive impact on the entertainment industry with lockdowns, restrictions on the King Fahad Causeway, and has heavily reduced the number of flights to the Kingdom.

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.18

Governmental restrictions included closing the Cinema, fewer customers in-store, social distancing measures in indoor dining, and even the complete restriction of dining-in with only takeaways available for long periods.

Fortunately, technology and innovation are an integral part of City Centre Bahrain and Majid Al Futtaim’s operations. City Centre Bahrain has accelerated the use of digital transformation and invested in contactless retail solutions that create immersive experiences for customers that are safe and support retailers, even during the current challenging times. Most City Centre Bahrain retailers are introducing new technologies such as digital menus, QR codes, and online payment platforms, to help ensure contactless safety for customers.

Beyond the priority that is safety, City Centre Bahrain also prides itself on delivering the latest digital experiences to our customers. Our self-digital redemption stations, launching soon, will allow the mall’s customers to redeem their shopping receipts using mobile and tablet devices. Additionally, City Centre Bahrain has recently launched a car park assistant in which customers can easily locate their cars and vehicles by using the City Centre Bahrain’s application. All they have to do is to enter their license plate number and they will be assisted in locating their car on any of the six-car park levels.

Social media is yet another area of focus for City Centre Bahrain to engage with mall customers and visitors through competitions, games and quizzes and these continue to reflect positively on the brand as well as engagement levels. Recently, for example, during our winter campaign, we launched two digital games which have driven outstanding engagement and interactions online.

Looking forward, we have a clear vision of what the future holds.

Majid Al Futtaim recently launched the Store of the Future, which is a concept that will allow customers to interact with the unique, fully digital, and physical concept store, incorporating an individual digital retail experience to showcase a futuristic shopping journey. The retail industry is an ever-evolving space, and this personalized experience gives customers a window into the future.

more complex tasks such as fashion tips and recommendations.

The concierge can then send pictures and videos of items and customers can purchase their selected products and have products delivered.

City Centre Bahrain is an integral part of the Kingdom’s retail industry and Bahrain society and a significant contributor to the Kingdom’s economy. The recent digitalisation of our operations has supported modernizing the retail sector and building the nation’s digital infrastructure, bolstering digital transformation, and helping the sector further contribute to the country’s gross domestic product.

Duaij Al Rumaihi Mall Director City Centre Bahrain

In the not-too-distant future, City Centre Bahrain may implement a live shopping initiative, which could allow customers to connect with brand partner sales associates virtually to get expert advice on a product, stock or collections. They would then be able to pay and have items delivered – so it would be a completely remote experience.

Similarly, digital concierge service, where customers can connect with a Concierge team via WhatsApp to address a range of questions. From simple requests, such as opening hours, to

RETAIL PEOPLE . JAN - MAR 2022

.19

SHOPPING CENTRE UPDATE

VALUE SHOPPING EVOLUTION S

ince its launch in 2007, the Dubai Outlet Mall has been on a journey of awareness and understanding of the overall concept, among both the retailers and customers in the region. From its time of opening, the demographics of the location have changed dramatically with significant developments and increased population.

In order to satisfy the organic demand, the mall will open its expansion this year which will provide an added and diverse offering alongside its main USP of being the ultimate value shopping destination.

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.20

The scheme is on the way to adding a significant footprint to its existing offer by adding almost double the size of its current footprint, leading the mall to become one of the largest in the outlet sector. The expansion of the mall will include the region’s first Megamarket (cash & carry) concept, a multiscreen cinema, varied food and beverage options and a number of big-box concepts in various categories are in the pipeline which will offer the customer a comprehensive shopping and entertainment experience.

Dubai Outlet Mall is the first ‘Value Shopping’ concept mall in the MENA region and is home to over 1,300 of the world’s top premium and luxury labels in over 240 stores. The upcoming expansion shall make Dubai Outlet Mall, the largest Outlet Mall in the world.

Within the upcoming expansion, an added focus is being put on the food and beverage category with several restaurants, an additional food court of a different manner and several cafes.

As customers spend an increased amount of time in the mall, this additional focus is to ensure a strong variety of healthy and wholesome cuisines are available.

To keep the mall at the forefront of the outlet industry, the Dubai Outlet Mall keeps itself abreast of all the latest innovations, as it is the requirement of their shoppers. They continue to work closely with local communities to adapt and evolve quickly ensuring the best interests of all customers are kept.

Dubai Outlet Mall has always led retail innovation through various propositions. In the upcoming expansion, a dynamic OMNI channel is planned to be released, a unique USP providing yet another exclusive experience for both shoppers and retailers alike.

While we were all facing tough times, Dubai Outlet Mall kept on building to extend more offerings and variety to their guests. The mall is growing organically and aims to provide a comprehensive and pleasant experience to its customers – both residents and visitors to the country in a significant manner.

The value focus remains the mainstay and with the healthy performance so far, Dubai Outlet Mall is looking to move forward in a positive way. The challenges and opportunities go hand-inhand and putting an honest platform together for all parties to benefit, keeps the mall going further in their sincere efforts.

Dubai Outlet Mall welcomes partnerships in this journey of evolution. To explore leasing options please visit www. dubaioutletmall.com

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.21

SPECIAL FEATURE

THE MECS+R… WORLD CLASS SINCE 1994 Phil McArthur

Chairman McArthur Retail Development Specialist

A

s an industry veteran, I often look back to see how our business has expanded and transitioned during the past years. From the expansion of global brands to E-Commerce to the globalization of the shopping centre business, our industry never rests.

One could argue that retail real estate is one of the largest industries in the world. If we also consider grocery and food retailing, physical bricks and mortar buildings are essential everywhere in the world for retail.

Given that retailing and retail development will continue to grow as emerging markets embrace expansion, the need for industry professional skills and education has never been greater.

Many readers may know about the MECS+R, but few know why it exists and how it was originally formed.

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.22

Back in 1994, the Middle East was on the verge of a shopping mall boom. Like-minded industry professionals based in Dubai assembled and work hard to create the Middle East Council of Shopping Centres.

Based on the International Council of Shopping Centers located in New York, NY, the pioneers behind the new MECSC saw a tremendous opportunity to create events and platforms for industry education and networking.

The early days of MECSC were not easy as the volunteer Board of Directors worked hard to establish an annual conference and subsequently a shopping centre school for professional development, The John T. Riordan School. The Board also arranged for market tours in the late 1990s to extend the reach and message of the MECSC. Acting as shopping centre ambassadors, the Board of MECSC helped establish networking and satellite events in Jeddah, Riyadh, Muscat, Doha, Bahrain, Kuwait City, Beirut, and Cairo. These early market tours combined with the creation of the MECSC Membership Directory in 1999, helped expand the Council into all regions of the Middle East and North Africa.

The MECS+R continues to forge ahead despite the challenges of a global pandemic and some restrictions on live event gatherings. Through exceptional leadership by CEO David Macadam, this talented management team and the dedication of the Board of Directors, the MECS+R has emerged as one of the strongest regional councils in the world.

As Middle East shopping centre and retailer professionals, we are so fortunate to have the MECS+R. Let us make 2022 the strongest year ever for MECS+R. How? Volunteer to host a regional event in your city, subscribe to the excellent GVS video training modules, and attend the Retail Congress 2022.

Most of all, renew your membership and encourage your industry colleagues to do the same.

The appetite for education and training proved to be the key ingredient in expanding the membership. Corporation and mall owners supported the Council and generously sent their staff to Dubai for training and improvement.

Fast forward to 2022; the MECS+R is operating from strength to strength with well over 1,000 members in 35 countries. While the ICSC in New York has changed their focus from international to domestic issues, regional councils globally became much more important.

In a time when the world has changed so much, there is comfort and knowledge to be gained by the experiences of so many of the MECS+R members. Take time to learn more about how you can help MECS+R and how MECS+R can help you.

Working together to build a strong and healthy MECS+R will have tremendous benefits for all of us and future industry professionals.

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.23

EVENTS GALLERY

A Glimpse of the 27th Anniv Retail Congress MENA 2021 – T The successful celebration of the Retail Congress MENA 2021, organized by the largest retail industry association, The Middle East Council of Shopping Centres & Retailers (MECS+R), and in partnership with the Dubai Association Centre and the Dubai Chamber, was held last December 6 & 7, 2021 at the Ritz Carlton DIFC Hotel.

The annual retail conference opened its doors to over 4,000+ delegates from around the world. The event began with welcome address from Younus Al Mulla, MECS+R Chairman, Eng. Wail Balkhair, MECS+R Board President and David Macadam, MECS+R CEO. The event was followed by remarkable and insightful conference sessions conducted by industry experts with a back to back keynote

addresses from incredible speakers Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, Dubai Tourism and Steve Dennis, Author of Remarkable Retail along with panel sessions focused on the technology and marketing retail overview and trends.

Day two of the conference sessions was also filled with remarkable line-up of speakers - Avi Akas - Chairman, JLL Israel, Serge Derhy Owner & CEO from Renuar/Twentyfourseven, Shahram Shamsaee CEO of Merex Investment, Bob Phibbs - The Retail Doctor and Michael Ruckman - CEO of Senteo.

The conference sessions were in parallel with the numerous exhibitions from prominent and upcoming shopping centres, retail brands, retail technology and solution providers showcasing their products and services.

Retail Congress MENA Conference Day 1 & 2 | 6-7th December 2021 | Samaya Ballroom

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.24

versary Celebration of the The Year of New Opportunities

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.25

EVENTS GALLERY

A Glimpse of the 27th Anniv Retail Congress MENA 2021 – T Retail Congress MENA Exhibition & Networking Day 1 & 2 | 6-7th December 2021 | Samaya Ballroom The exhibition hall and foyer were filled with distinguished delegates, members, and guests from the leading retailers, shopping centres, and solution providers within the retail industry with the main objective to showcase their products, services and at the same time connect with the key players in the retail industry. More than thirty-six (36) companies have participated in the exhibition this year which has attracted more attendees.

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.26

versary Celebration of the The Year of New Opportunities

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.27

EVENTS GALLERY

A Glimpse of the 27th Anniv Retail Congress MENA 2021 – T Retail Congress MENA Awards Celebration Day 2 | 7th December 2021 | Samaya Ballroom The MENA Awards event at the MECS+R continues to be the pinnacle of recognition for excellence locally, regionally, and globally in the retail industry. Despite the challenges brought by the pandemic, the Shopping Centre and Retail Industry faced each challenge with the same positivity, drive, passion, and creativity that made them successful in the first place. The Awards Celebration were filled with esteemed guests from the leading key players in the retail industry who celebrated and recognized the award winners at the event.

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.28

versary Celebration of the The Year of New Opportunities

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.29

EVENTS GALLERY

A Glimpse of the 27th Anniv Retail Congress MENA 2021 – T Retail Congress MENA Awards Cocktail Reception Day 2 | 7th December 2021 | Olive Garden After the successful MENA Awards, a Cocktail Reception Celebration was held at the Olive Garden at the Ritz Carlton DIFC. The sponsors, winners of the awards and guests gathered to spend the night and celebrate the success of everyone who participated in the MENA Shopping Centre and Retailer Awards. The cocktail reception started with music performed by a saxophonist who rendered an excellent entertainment for all the guests. Thanks to Global Creative for sponsoring the entertainment that elevates the ambience.

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.30

versary Celebration of the The Year of New Opportunities

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.31

The awards presentation and celebration at the Retail Congress MENA honour the most successful retail and retail centres for their excellence in Marketing, Design and Development, and NOI Enhancement. It is the most anticipated event at the conference which offers recognition to reputable brands and individuals in the Shopping Centre and Retail Industry. A total of sixteen (16) Gold and forty-seven (47) Silver award trophies were given during the awards ceremony. Also, the contributions made by Retail Congress MENA Platinum Sponsors namely Mall of Qatar, Arabian Centres and Red Sea Mall were recognized and honoured at the event.

Lastly, Younus Al Mulla, Chairman of the MECS+R was also given outstanding recognition for his contribution to the success of the council.

BEST MENA RETAIL BRAND

is awarded to retailers who have demonstrated overall success and are determined collectively by financial performance product offerings, marketing initiatives and customers service programmes.

FABYLAND

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

RETAIL EXCELLENCE

recognizes excellence amongst the region’s many classifications of retailers. Award Winners have implemented innovation and creativity to deliver outstanding performance and commercial success.

ENTERTAINMENT & LEISURE

DALMA MALL

ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

RESTAURANTS

360 KUWAIT

KUWAIT CITY, KUWAIT

ENTERTAINMENT & LEISURE

OMAN AQUARIUM

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

AL RAYYAN, QATAR

.32

DANUBE HOME

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

FEC

XTREME LAND – MOQ

MUSCAT, OMAN

HOME & OFFICE FURNISHING

THEME PARK

SNOW CITY – CITY STARS MALL CAIRO, EGYPT

SERVICE EXCELLENCE

recognizes service providers who delivered a technology product combined with professional services to resolve a retailer’s particular problem or to deliver an innovative opportunity during a challenging construction or refurbishment phase.

DATA ANALYTICS

V-COUNT

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT

PROPERTY MGT. SOFTWARE

TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION

YARDI SYSTEMS

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

recognizes how professional store design contributes to the success of a kiosk, outlet, store or concept in the shopping centre industry

RETAIL STORE DESIGN

SEOUDI CITYSTARS CAIRO, EGYPT

MONOPRIX ICONIC 2022 DOHA, QATAR

XTREME LAND CAIRO, EGYPT

SHARJAH CO-OP RAHMANIA MALL HYPERMARKET SHARJAH, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

FABYLAND - NAKHEEL MALL DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.33

DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT

recognizes how professional design contributes to the success of a kiosk, outlet, store or concept in the shopping centre industry

RENOVATIONS/EXPANSIONS

360 KUWAIT

TAMDEEN GROUP, KUWAIT CITY, KUWAIT

MANAR MALL

AL HAMRA GROUP, RAK, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

NEW DEVELOPMENTS

TOWN SQUARE JEDDAH

DAMAC PROPERTIES

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.34

UNIFIED REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT COMPANY RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA

KHALIDIYAH MALL

SILICON CENTRAL

ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

TABUK PARK MALL

HAMAT HOLDING, RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA

NOI ENHANCEMENT

winners in this category have executed programs and initiatives to directly generate revenue and enhance the net operating income of a single shopping centre, or throughout the company. These initiatives may include sponsorships and alliances, innovative leasing strategies or the implementation of operational efficiencies and cost saving measures.

MARKETING/SPONSORSHIP

MALL OF EGYPT GIZA, EGYPT

CITY CENTRE MAADI CAIRO, EGYPT

MAJID AL FUTTAIM EGYPT MALLS, EGYPT

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.35

MARKETING/SPONSORSHIP

CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN

MALL OF THE EMIRATES

MANAMA, BAHRAIN

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

OPERATIONS/OVERALL TEAM

SILICON CENTRAL

ALANDALUS MALL

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA

LEASING

CITY WALK

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

AL WAHDA MALL

ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.36

CITY CENTRE AL ZAHIA

SHARJAH, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

TRADITIONAL MARKETING

winners in this category employed innovative, creative and cost-effective strategies to promote their centres to their targeted markets.

ADVERTISING

CITY CENTRE ALMAZA CAIRO, EGYPT

CAUSE-RELATED MARKETING winners in this category have implemented events, programmes, and projects to directly benefit charitable organisations or to support a community’s need, interest, or cause.

NAKHEEL PROPERTIES

CAIRO FESTIVAL CITY MALL

DALMA MALL

LUCKYONE MALL

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

CAIRO, EGYPT

KARACHI, PAKISTAN

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.37

CUSTOMER SERVICE EXPERIENCE AND/OR ENGAGEMENT recognizes exceptional centre initiatives and services implemented to enhance the customer experience or to benefit consumers, employees, suppliers, shareholders, or the community at large.

DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY MALL DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

PACKAGES MALL LAHORE, PAKISTAN

DIGITAL CAMPAIGNS/SOCIAL MEDIA winners in this category have employed social media components and/or digital technology as the primary means to communicate their marketing strategy.

Examples of these components include: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube, Blogs QR Codes, Mobile Apps, or location-based services.

MALL OF QATAR

THE POINTE

BURJUMAN CENTRE

SHARJAH COOP

AL RAYYAN, QATAR

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

SHARJAH, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

.38

GRAND OPENING, EXPANSION & RENOVATION executed comprehensive marketing campaigns to introduce a new centre or to reposition a newly expanded or renovated centre.

THE POINTE

CIRCLE MALL

CITY CENTRE AL ZAHIA

CITY CENTRE ALMAZA

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

SHARJAH, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

CAIRO, EGYPT

NEW/EMERGING TECHNOLOGY recognizes strategic programmes and plans that incorporate geo-targeting, audience profile management, artificial intelligence, machine learning or virtual reality to achieve brand and marketing communication goals for a shopping centre or its parent company.

IBN BATTUTA MALL

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.39

DOHA FESTIVAL CITY

DALMA MALL

DRAGON MART

CITY CENTRE DEIRA

DOHA, QATAR

ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

PUBLIC RELATIONS winners in this category incorporated community or cultural initiatives into their programs to promote good will, whilst generating positive publicity to benefit their centre’s commercial interest.

MALL OF THE EMIRATES

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

CITY CENTRE MIRDIF

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.40

SALES PROMOTION AND EVENTS winners implemented promotions, programs, or events that had a direct, measurable and significant impact on retail centre sales and customer traffic.

CITY CENTRE MIRDIF

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

FESTIVAL PLAZA

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

DALMA MALL

360 KUWAIT

ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

KUWAIT CITY, KUWAIT

CAIRO FESTIVAL CITY MALL

RED SEA MALL

CAIRO, EGYPT

JEDDAH, SAUDI ARABIA

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.41

RETAIL PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

amongst their many accomplishments, our winners have demonstrated innovative leadership and management techniques, have been instrumental in developing talent and skills from within their respective companies, and believe there is a symbiotic relationship between providing the customer with what he needs and the corporate bottom line.

MOHAMMED AL MAZROUEI

ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

SHAHROKH KESHAVARZ

MAJID ALGOTHMI

TEHRAN, IRAN

JEDDAH, SAUDI ARABIA

SPECIAL RECOGNITION

MR. YOUNUS AL MULLA MECS+R CHAIRMAN

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.42

PLATINUM SPONSORS

MALL OF QATAR

ARABIAN CENTRES

RED SEA MALL

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.43

FEATURE

From Beta to Meta; The Metaverse and How It Will Affect the Shopping Mall Industry

T

here may be no consumer technology platform that is driving more debate than the ‘metaverse’. The metaverse – is defined as a parallel reality consisting of connected worlds brought to life by technologies including augmented and virtual reality.

The metaverse is an always-on virtual world where people can work, play, and shop; part-augmented, part-reality. Whilst a relatively new concept, the market is predicting the metaverse industry will be worth US $800bn (AED 29.3 tril) by 2024.

Forecasters are predicting that retailers will play a pivotal role in financing the metaverse. Designed to break free from the current physical-form stores and move to the best digital shopping experience of the future, virtual festivals, showrooms and flagships will create more compelling online experiences. This will include personalised brandscapes and desktop-accessible immersion which will create new rules of engagement.

Vanessa Hinton Marketing Director

Nike filed a number of trademark applications in November with plans to sell virtual branded sneakers and apparel.

In 2021, it bought the virtual sneaker company RTFKT (pronounced “artifact”) for an undisclosed amount.

In June 2021, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced it was changing its company name to Meta, signaling its ambitions beyond social media. “There are going to be new ways of interacting with your devices that are more natural. Instead of typing, you will be able to gesture or interact....giving you a sense of presence in the new experiences you are having and the people you are with,” says Mark Zuckerberg unveiling his company vision.

Whilst Facebook has tried to claim the territory with a rebrand, it is important to highlight that the metaverse will span many companiesacross the industry.

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg confirmed that the company was rebranding to Meta, preparing for the future launch of the Metaverse.

Will it be critical to embrace the potential of the metaverse for retailers or risk being left behind?

What’s in it for retailers? Who’s leading the pack?

Retail brands are beginning to dip their toes into the virtual water of the metaverse. In 2021, Samsung unveiled their virtual store Samsung 837X in the Decentraland platform.

Gucci launched its Garden Experience in Roblox, the online multiplayer platform popular with children and teens. Gucci’s most expensive digital accessory – a Queen Bee Dionysus bag – traded for $4,100 (AED 15,100), which is $500 (AED 1,800) more than its physical product Gucci equivalent.

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.44

Gucci Garden is a garden of virtual archetypes – an immersive space that explores their campaigns from the past six years.

What this means for shopping centres?

There is no doubt that more immersive and engaging realistic experiences are the next logical evolution of the shopping experience. However, will transactions only be digital, or will customers be able to buy real-world services and products too? What will their in-store experience be within the metaverse and how will it connect to the brand’s existing channels?

The only way for retailers and shopping centres to survive and succeed within this new platform will be to transform into a hyper-automated business and embrace a hyperautomation strategy. The jury is out for retailers and shopping centres to connect the dots between journeys, stores and operations and there’s no time to waste. No matter how you feel about the metaverse, you won’t be able to ignore the chatter in 2022.

SOCIAL MEDIA TRENDS FOR 2022 Zaib Shadani is the Founder and Managing Director of PR, Social Media and Video production agency Shadani Consulting

A

s the person at the helm of Shadani Consulting – a specialized PR, digital marketing and video production agency, it’s critical to ensure I have a finger on the pulse of the market, so as to prepare our clients for what lies ahead. A key determinant for success in 2022 is going to be an understanding of what to expect, the trends to look out for and ultimately, where to focus marketing efforts and ad spend. Here are my top 5 tips on how to maintain a leadership position in 2022.

Tip 1: Don’t underestimate the power of TikTok for marketing In September 2021, TikTok passed the 1 billion user mark, making it the 4th most popular social media network in the world (excluding messaging networks).

This number is all the more impressive when we take into account the fact that in January 2021, it only had 689 million users – meaning a whopping increase of 45% in less than a year! And this trend is expected to continue in 2022, pushing TikTok up the ranks of social media networks. However, what’s interesting to note is that many businesses are still trepidations and cautious when it comes to using TikTok as a marketing tool, opting for Instagram and Facebook instead.

My advice for businesses looking to make a mark in 2022? Definitely jump on the TikTok bandwagon, because it’s going places!

Tip 2: Organic reach is dead – You have to embrace the “Pay for Play” model Social media platforms may be free to join, but at their heart, they are advertising mediums and that’s the primary way they make money. Most social media platforms operate on a “pay for play” model, where the average number of people who see organic posts, that aren’t pushed by advertising spend, is very low – for example, the average organic reach for a Facebook post is usually 5%. While businesses definitely need to incorporate elements that will increase their chances of organic reach (like writing great captions, using correct hashtags etc.), the reality is that post boosting and targeting audiences is the only way to get eyeballs on your content. There is no point in having beautifully curated content if no one gets to see it. If you want to reach a larger audience, then consider targeting your ideal customer and boosting your content with paid social media.

Zaib Shadani

Founder and Managing Director Shadani Consulting Tip 3: Social Media is becoming synonymous with Shopping All major social media channels are now shopping enabled, whereby physical store windows have essentially, become swapped for digital windows, as the first point of contact.

Increasingly, consumers like to shop on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram or Pinterest, with the simple click of a button. In fact, studies indicated that up to 70% of consumers look to Instagram to discover a new product. With users being able to not only discover, but also indulge in instant gratification and instantaneous shopping experiences, it’s no surprise that the latest evolving trend is “Livestream Shopping”. Already popular in China, it offers an interactive shopping experience where a host presents products and audiences can ask questions and interact via chat. As consumers increasingly gravitate towards “social commerce,” brands will need to embrace new ways of selling.

Tip 4: Augmented Reality as an immersive brand experience More and more brands are pursuing Augmented Reality (AR) as a way to connect directly with users and bring the store directly to the user – no matter where they are located. The most popular way is through virtual trials of things like accessories, makeup, sunglasses etc., which are quite popular on Facebook and Instagram. But the potential of AR for brands is limitless as a way for creative and fun immersive experiences that allow users to get up close and personal with products, without having to leave their homes.

Tip 5: The demise of long-form video The success of TikTok and Instagram reels has changed the way we consume video content and made it apparent that “the shorter the better” is a winning mantra for video content on social media.

Of course, the content needs to be entertaining, but the reality is that marketers need to re-calibrate their efforts into packing their messages into short bite-sized videos. Even YouTube, the king of long-form content has taken note with its “YouTube Shorts”, in an attempt to go head to head with TikTok and generate short-form video content.

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.45

FEATURE

Shifting Trends: The key to a successful retail business

A

s we kick off this year, the Retail People Magazine had an exclusive interview with Nathalie Beydoun, Retail & HR Manager from BFL Group. Nathalie joined BFL in 2018. As a Retail Manager, Nathalie oversees the daily operations, monitor merchandising processes, as well as plan and supervise instore promotional events. Let’s hear her insights on the importance of staying up to date with shifting trends that leads to a successful retail business.

1. Why do brands need to continuously innovate, revamp current products and create new ones?

Nathalie Beydoun Retail & HR Manager BFL Group

In the current retail landscape, innovative strategies are vital for the brands to stay relevant in a dynamic customer-centric retail market.

Retailers who address and adapt to the rapidly changing customer behaviour and emerging trends will remain relevant among their customers.

Considering the swiftly changing consumer behaviour in a highly competitive retail market, brand loyalty will shift in the blink of an eye.

Brands must also devise strategies considering the preferences and the changing interests of the customers, as it is necessary for attracting and retaining customer loyalty in a rapidly transforming retail market.

2. In a world of E-commerce, how does managing constantly evolving trends became a challenge for retailers?

To stay relevant in a rapidly transforming market with the rise of e-commerce and address the changing consumer behaviour, retailers must reinvent their business models.

Industries such as fashion are benefitting from the rise of e-commerce.

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.46

The online fashion industry is one of the key sectors that benefit from e-commerce and high internet penetration. As digitalization has reshaped consumer behaviour in the fashion industry, the brands must adopt a myriad of ways to meet the demands of the customers. A vast majority of the fashion industry customers now prefer online shopping rather than in-store shopping.

According to experts, the growing popularity of e-commerce is due to technological advancements and user-friendly interfaces of internetenabled devices.

3. Why do retail brands today see influencers as a huge bonus for business growth than sticking to the old school routine of celebrities endorsement?

Today, influencers have taken a more prominent role in the marketing strategies of brands and retailers than celebrities. Statistics shows that consumers prefer the content created by social media influencers to celebrity endorsements. Consumers consider influencers more genuine as influencers endorse products or services only after they are confident about the quality.

The brands rely more on the influencers than celebrity brand partnerships for their credibility among the customers, and costeffectiveness. The brands and retailers have also devised technology to develop platforms that will enable collaboration with the influencers and analyse the success of marketing campaigns.

An important aspect of influencer marketing is that brands are increasingly turning to influencers who can create quality, targeted content that will generate more engagement among keen and enthusiastic audience. This will in turn help the brand yield intangible benefits such as authenticity, validation, deeper stories about brands, unique perspectives, and a wider reach.

4. What creates a good customer experience?

How does this play a role in building business?

A positive customer experience is necessary for the success of any business as it is vital for creating brand loyalty and generating revenue. Word-of-mouth marketing, triggered by great customer experience delivered by a brand, is considered trustworthy and crucial for success. The loyal customers of a brand who will reflect their interest in a brand through their conversations and life are one of the greatest assets of any business.

Due to digitalization, customers now have vast opportunities to learn and explore before they make a purchase. By providing a remarkable customer experience, a brand can retain its customers and continue business with them. To generate brand awareness and brand loyalty, a business can adopt the following measures such as a customer satisfaction survey to understand the customers, the demands of products or features and the customer support tickets.

5. What is your outlook for BFL Group in the retail sector in 2022?

We are focusing on our expansion strategies, and we aim to achieve exponential growth this year. Moreover, we look forward to opening new stores in line with our plans to establish new customer bases in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Qatar. As for the UAE, with the resilience of its economy and strong market position, we expect to maintain sustainable growth in our sales in 2022.

Our core ethos of offering a wide range of branded items at reasonable rates continues to be our key advantage in the market to win customers and their loyalty. As a brand that gives utmost importance to customer engagement, we will continue to offer top-quality services in our outlets and e-commerce platform. In 2022, we also look forward to further strengthening the additional revenue stream generated by our e-commerce platform, as many consumers have switched to online purchases.

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.47

FEATURE

AI in Real Estate

A

rtificial Intelligence has been a buzzword in the real estate industry and a growing number of retail real estate now offer services backed with AI. According to PwC, the Middle East is expected to accrue 2% of the total global benefits of AI by 2030, which is equivalent to US$320 billion.

With AI-based innovation expected to lead to 20-34% annual growth per year in the Middle East, the question still remains, what exactly does AI do? To answer this question, we need to explore two things – computing power and alternative data sets – because AI is all about analysing data sets.

In 1965, an engineer called Gordon Moore predicted that the power of computers would double every two years – this was proved to be true in 1975 and Moore’s law was established. According to research

by Open AI, the amount of computing power today increases every 3.5 months. It is now 50-60 times faster than Moore’s law and since 2012, the metric has increased by 300,000-fold. This has led to key progress in applications such as speech recognition, computer vision, pattern recognition and much more. At the start of 2017, it cost US$10,000 to classify one billion images on the latest computers whereas by the end of 2019 it was only 3 cents, which is exponential growth at an incredibly fast rate compared to Moore’s law.

We now have significant computing power at our fingertips to analyse anything we want. This means we can move away from our current ways of thinking about data and only choose what we believe is relevant. By moving away from out of date, aggregated data, we can start analysing real-time information that provides actionable insights.

Said Haider

Regional Sales Director Yardi

However, computing power is only one side of the potential of AI. The disruption that AI is expected to cause has a lot to do with the data that is being analysed. The sheer volume of data that are generated, and therefore is available, is on a steep upward curve. 90% of all the data in the world has been generated in the last two years, which means there’s data available for nearly anything you can think of.

The way we gather data and utilise AI is evolving rapidly, and as an industry, we need to be ready for that change if we want to keep up with the future of the real estate.

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.48

How is AI used in Real Estate?

There are two types of AI that are applicable in real estate. Let’s start with the easiest to understand, Narrow AI. This type of artificial intelligence is about analysing deeply detailed data and is mostly used to better understand property operations.

Buildings are becoming “smart buildings,” which in layperson’s terms means there’s a lot of meters and sensors that will measure the use of the building and its equipment. Think of smart thermostats, locks, lifts and doors that are in place to measure when units and equipment are being used and how.

The data generated from these meters and sensors helps in two ways – to optimise operations, the use of the building and its spaces, and to effectively measure planned maintenance and investment decisions.

Out of the generated data, you can even begin to analyse how many times a lift can be used before it needs maintenance, or even which brand of lift will be the best economical choice. Thanks to the expected usage data gathered for new and renovated buildings.

Broad Artificial Intelligence is the same concept, but this is referring to using alternative data sets for broader, or more high-level, management decisions. The complexity with Broad AI is taking into consideration which data you need as well as the human comprehension of the analysis.

To answer strategic questions, you need to choose the right variables or data that’s relevant and then begin gathering this information. However, with uncertain data and unprecedented times, it may not be humanly possible to predict this information today. Although, with the potential competitive edge that the real estate industry could gain, they will start pushing for this ability to advance rapidly to enhance predictions as soon as possible.

It’s a matter of time until this predicted data will be available in high quality, and within the next 7 – 10 years we should expect to see this information become the norm. The computing power is already available and there are huge data sets that are accessible as well. However, developing the calculations, aka algorithms, is the missing link.

If you look at the technology you readily use, such as the data from your car navigation system, you’ll notice how it’s changed completely throughout the years from basic directions to live traffic, speed camera locations and weather information. Nowadays we expect to receive exact time predictions from A to B, and we’re beginning to expect additional factors being taken into consideration that might impact us arriving on time.

The way we gather data and utilise AI is evolving rapidly, and as an industry, we need to be ready for that change if we want to keep up with the future of the real estate.

Every piece of data we gather can be effective and help improve our business decisions, but we need to have the right strategy in place to begin using it.

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.49

FEATURE

Collaboration is Key to Creating World-Class Retail Destinations

C

OVID-19 has created huge challenges for the retail sector in all parts of the world, but if there is one silver lining, it is that this virus seems to have brought landlords and tenants closer together.

Closing centres, maintaining social distancing and reacting quickly to a change in guidance or spike in cases required joined-up thinking and constant communication between dozens of stakeholders across centre management teams, retailers, transport authorities, local government, nearby businesses and residents. As we start 2022, we are all much better prepared to manage any further disruption and drive the recovery because that spirit of collaboration has remained.

David Fuller-Watts Managing Director Mallcomm

When we launched the Mallcomm tenant engagement platform in 2014, it felt like a watershed moment for the retail sector as it battled back from the global recession and adjusted to the growth of mobile technology. At that time, landlords and tenants still had a fundamentally transactional relationship based largely on long leases and quarterly rent collection.

Today, the dynamic is very different as landlords and retailers adjust to a new normal post-COVID and look to shape shopping centres around a new purpose in the age of multi-channel retail.

One of the major drivers of increased collaboration has been the move in many geographies towards turnover-based leases. This requires much more transparency around daily and weekly trading. Our platform is now increasingly used for that purpose, providing landlords with a realtime update on revenue which enables them to forecast and forwardplan.

Similarly, digital tenant engagement has become integral to sustainability strategies. Mallcomm enables landlords to track environmental performance day-to-day and gather data from tenants on energy usage. This means they can make informed decisions on how to reduce the property’s carbon footprint, which is becoming vitally important in attracting today’s conscientious consumers.

Finally, the greater sophistication of mobile technology means centres can now engage directly with shoppers and create a tailored, frictionless experience. Convenience and ease of purchase is why many people prefer to shop online, but with the help of proptech, landlords and tenants can replicate this in a physical retail setting.

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.50

Retail places must be easy to access, queues and congestion must be managed, and basic amenities must be available.

At leading retail destinations there is also a move towards a digital concierge offer allowing visitors to access luxury services such as valet parking, order food and beverages, access special offers and purchase transport tickets. This level of service, akin to a five-star hotel, is facilitated via an app which allows shoppers to access all the information and services they need instantly – and crucially, plan their next visit.

The unexpected silver lining of the disruption in the past 18 months is that landlords and tenants will emerge better connected, and with a better understanding of their customers.

A BOLD NEW VENTURE IN RETAIL Presenting Ventura Mall at DAMAC Hills A distinctive community known for its world-class experiences, DAMAC Hills is primed for another jewel in the crown - Ventura Mall.

Crafted to be a landmark in the community with a selection of premium retail, dining and leisure stores, it’s set to give your shopping experience an iconic makeover.

Call DAMAC leasing 00971 (0) 4 2702840 or email leasing@damacgroup.com

DAMAC

H ILLS

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.51

FEATURED MEMBER

The Director’s Role–

“Show Must Go On”

One-On-One with Mohammed Al Mazrouei Learning to celebrate success is a key component of learning how to win in the market. Success, achievements are best celebrated with the people whom you love and have an impact on your life.

Hearing a success story or achievement is always good as this serves as an inspiration to many. The Retail People Magazine had an exclusive one-onone conversation with Mr. Mohammed Alshaiba Al Mazrouei, Board Member and Executive Director of Dalma Mall.

FULL NAME: MOHAMMED ALSHAIBA AL MAZROUEI

PREFERRED NAME/NICKNAME: MOHAMMED

TITLE/DESIGNATION/COMPANY: Board Member & Executive Director- Dalma Mall Board Member - CBRE and Others

NATIONALITY: UAE NATIONAL

HOBBIES/INTEREST: CROSSFIT and ART COLLECTING

FAVOURITE QUOTE: “If your point of view is positive, you’ll see the challenges in the future as opportunities.”

From HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan

For those who don’t know you, what or how do you want people to know you as a professional, as an individual and as the Board Member & Executive Director of Dalma Mall? Can you share it briefly?

A Board Member & Executive Officer with 15+ years of experience spanning across diversified verticals ranging from holding companies to those engaged in Shopping Malls, Retail Management, Real Estate, Security and Cash Management, NBFCs and other diversified conglomerates. I envisage comprehensive expertise of the global financial marketplace with an astute and informed eye for new opportunities which has now made way for successful forward-thinking investment and spectacular results in all initiatives. I adore the technology and digital sector which is evolving at a rapid pace, enabling faster change and progress, causing an acceleration of the rate of change.

With a new influx of digital innovations, brick-andmortar and e-commerce, how does Dalma Mall prepare for this or what can you say about this? To what extent does social media help your company in marketing your services?

Digital Innovation, Technology and Artificial intelligence are into leaps and bounds wherein now we are experiencing a whole new virtual world “The Metaverse”. Every industry will henceforth be influenced and adapt to the changing sectorial environments and work towards enhanced business continuity and better returns on investment. However, will need to emphasise the fact that Physical Retail Space is a Consumer Habitat; it will prevail no matter what. Shopping is more to be seen as a pleasure activity and it has its relaxation dimensions. Basically, it’s a combination of Economic and Emotional motives. Digital World thus complements the shopping malls and does not compete with them. Hence, we try to offer to all our customers the right product mix, ample entertainment, films, food with various choices, day to day services and most importantly a place to socialize thereby creating an overall experience for the customers. Our principle is very clear give what the customer wants.

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.52

On the other hand, we fully acknowledge that this is the era of Digital Marketing and have been focussing our efforts on Digital & Social Media. Our Objective is never to buy likes or followers but to work on AECCC strategies i.e., Access, Engage, Connect, Collaborate and Customize and have noticed Awareness and Engagement metrics on the rise.

In tandem with your vast expertise, it would be great if you could share your insights on Covid Impact on the Industry as a whole and your vision as the way forward.

Covid had scourged every business entity in the world with a significant impact on the retail and shopping sector with indefinite closures, gathering restrictions and crowd limitations which were the very fodder of industry. There has been a substantial multidimensional impact across all operational aspects of the sector. It has slowed down the exponential growth the industry was relishing but this is not the end.

A Comprehensive & Strategic Crisis Management and Business Continuity plan encapsulating all the components of a Shopping Industry from Leasing, Renewals, Marketing, Operations, Facilities Management & Finance and coming forth with a formula for a Successful Re-Gear and Re-Vitalising strategy is the way forward.

We need to incorporate sinking funds for business continuity, take a short term hit on the annual annuity and create longevity and enhanced value of the asset. Strategic Timely Decision-Making, Optimal Delegation and Cohesive Stakeholder Management can surely assist in sailing through the turbulent times. We can also take the aid of Technology & Artificial Intelligence for Data Analysis, Periodical checks and to be conclusive on the right derivates in aspects of operative expenditures, rental efficiencies, marketing outlays and the overall NOI of the Asset.

How does it feel to be recognized as Retail Professional of the Year - 2021?

Recognition and Appreciation always is a positive boost towards striving harder and achieving higher goals. I would like to take this opportunity to thank MECSC+R and all the industry peers for their esteemed consideration and I am so honoured with this recognition.

All I have done is to endeavour and strive to keep Our Retail Industry Momentous and shall continue to do so and, in the process, generate and revitalise valuable assets and work towards overall human capital development and fruitful stakeholder management. I would request each of your support and cooperation in enriching the entire retail fraternity.

What is your personal life philosophy?

I believe in the concept of a happy family in stakeholder management which can create a perfect symphony and synchronization of objectives, attributes, processes, and human capital and be beneficial to each and every stakeholder in line with their contribution and roles.

To end with “The Best Executive is the One who has sense enough to pick Good Men to do what he wants to be done, and Self-Restraint enough to keep from meddling with them while they do it.” —Theodore Roosevelt

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.53

MECS+R MEMBER’S SEGMENT

GRADUATES

GRADUATES

Mall of Muscat Wins Prestigious ‘Most Trusted Brand in Oman’ Award including the first-ever Debenhams store in Oman, and flagship stores of Victoria’s Secret and Starbucks.

Oman’s leading and preferred shopping destination, Mall of Muscat, has clinched the coveted award in the Shopping Mall category.

Mall of Muscat, the Sultanate’s leading shopping destination, has won the ‘Most Trusted Brand in Oman’ Award in the Shopping Mall category.

This year’s edition of Oman’s Most Trusted Brands survey attracted over 780,000 votes across 58 categories. Mall of Muscat fought off stiff competition in the Shopping Mall category and was named the winner at the prestigious award ceremony held in Al Bustan Palace Hotel on January 25, 2022.

Renowned brands across the Sultanate from various categories contest against each other in Oman’s Most Trusted Brand Awards every year, where the consumer is the ultimate judge.

The focus of the survey is to allow consumers to make their own, personal choices as to which brand they consider to be the best, underlining the brand as the Best Brand of the year. This year, 780,000 eligible survey entries were counted in the results across the categories.

Featuring over 240+ brands, ranging from fashion and lifestyle to sports and electronics, Mall of Muscat provides unmatched luxury and has some of the world’s most renowned brands,

The Mall covers an area of around 200,000 square meters with over 3000 car parking spaces. Apart from shopping, the Mall of Muscat offers attractions that are fun for the whole family including a cinema, entertainment zone and more. Mall of Muscat is also the home of Oman Aquarium, the largest and only public aquarium in the Sultanate, which recently bagged the Silver Award in Retail Excellence at the prestigious Retail Congress MENA organised by the Middle East Council of Shopping Centres and Retailers.

“We are proud for winning Oman’s Most Trusted Brands Award in the Sultanate of Oman. From the beginning, providing a unique shopping experience was our first concern in the Mall of Muscat. We worked on attracting brands for the first time in Oman, supporting and promoting tourism development efforts as well as be in line with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040 and what citizens deserve in terms of services and entertainments for all visitors,” said Mahmood Mohamed Ali Al Jarwani, Chairman of Tamani Global Development & Investment LLC, the Operator of Mall of Muscat.

UAE Retailer GMG to Open More Than 100 Stores in Egypt by 2026 a large youth population that is increasingly embracing healthy and active lifestyles while desiring the latest in popular international brand trends. Through our upcoming investments, we are pioneering new brand experiences and offerings in Egypt’s vibrant retail landscape, while also creating new jobs within the wider economy.”

E-commerce offerings are further being explored

by GMG with local distribution partners, capitalising on the company’s longstanding capabilities in delivering omnichannel retail experiences.

UAE-based retail distribution company GMG has said it will open more than 100 sports retail stores in Egypt within the next five years. The company will introduce its portfolio of brands focused on personal well-being as part of its wider international expansion.

GMG has confirmed that it will open a number of stores in Cairo this year. Sun & Sand Sports, a GMG brand and the Middle East’s sports retailer is

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.56

already slated to open at the City Centre Almaza as well as Mall of Egypt. The company also intends to introduce its sneakers-focused concept, dropkick, and its Nu Athlete concept catering to a youth demographic.

Mohammad A. Baker, Deputy Chairman and CEO of GMG, commented: “We see Egypt as a compelling gateway into North Africa. The retail landscape in Egypt is incredibly dynamic with

GMG has established a head office in Cairo to fuel its local business growth. These operations are being led by Imad El Ghazal, Vice President – Egypt at GMG, who will work in alignment with the company’s international brand teams.

El Ghazal added: “As part of our strategy, GMG will also engage with local retail leaders in Egypt to build unique consumer experiences, all while setting strong and sustainable distribution channels for both our owned brands and international partners.”

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

Dubai Hills Mall to Enhance Consumer Shopping Experience to enjoy, presented by Emaar Entertainment.

Also, by Emaar Entertainment, adrenaline enthusiasts can gear up for the ride of their lives with The Storm coaster, the record-breaking, incredible rollercoaster experience located inside Complementing the region’s eclectic and diverse culture, Dubai Hills Mall will also provide guests with unmatched culinary experiences, featuring restaurants and cafes located within a chic and vibrant setting. From acclaimed international concepts to beloved home-grown brands, guests will indeed be spoilt for choice.

Dubai Hills Estate, a first of its kind destination and master development of Emaar, has announced the upcoming opening of its eagerly anticipated Dubai Hills Mall, the new shopping, dining and entertainment destination located at the heart of the leafy enclave of Dubai Hills Estate. The mall is expected to attract incredible fanfare from Dubai residents who are excited to experience the city’s latest shopping and lifestyle hub.

The two-level Dubai Hills Mall features an inimitable selection of retail, dining, and

entertainment concepts. With the unveiling of Dubai Hills Mall, Dubai Hills Estate brings a world-class leisure and entertainment brand portfolio that includes one-of-a-kind experiences.

Guests can relish movie-going fun in one of Roxy Cinemas’ spacious seats and enjoy the latest blockbusters in an unrivalled ambience or alternatively spend hours at Adventure Park, the state-of-the-art park with over 11 unique experiences offering the ultimate fun and thrills for kids, teenagers, and the whole family

At Dubai Hills Mall, customers will shop from categories including the best in apparel, eyewear, watches, footwear, cosmetics and fragrances, sportswear, jewellery, handbags, electronics, home décor, and much more. The friendly neighbourhood hypermarket and onestop-shop for freshness, quality, and value, Géant, will also anchor Dubai Hills Mall with an incredible array of products that customers have grown to know and love.

The new centrepiece Dubai Hills Mall will provide the convenience of proximity for Dubai Hills Estate’s residents, a new destination for the wider Dubai community and a stunning new attraction for the millions of tourists who visit the UAE each year.

Source: Khaleej Times (https://bit.ly/3LNzgyY)

Starbucks Celebrates Bluewaters Island Reserve Store: Its 1,000th in the MENA sleek design. It offers a range of high quality, rare and responsibly sourced Arabica coffee beans, and the finest brewing methods in addition to global favourites. The wider selection of food and freshly baked pastries straight from the oven, a unique feature for the first time at Starbucks, make it the neighborhood’s favored third place outside work or home to connect over a cup of coffee.

Starbucks marks a milestone with the opening of Bluewaters Island Reserve in Dubai, its 1,000th in 14 markets, solely operated by Alshaya Group in the region for the past 22 years as part of an ongoing focus on bringing great coffee to customers, wherever they are at throughout the day.

Drawing inspiration from the waterfront vibrant and diverse surrounding, the unique design of the Bluewaters Starbucks Reserve reflects the

coffeehouse’s evolution in the region and the commitment to constantly transform the business to meet the changing needs of customers for increased convenience, connection, and personalization. As the Starbucks store portfolio evolves, the formats and locations of new stores are being tailored to optimize the unique Starbucks Experience for MENA customers.

The Starbucks Bluewaters Reserve store brings a signature immersive coffee experience with a

“We’re delighted to commemorate Starbucks’ 22-year journey in the region with the opening of our 1,000th store. Our new Starbucks Bluewaters Reserve destination represents our commitment to brand authenticity, constant evolution and continuing to strengthen our ties with the local communities. Alshaya Group was pleased to introduce Starbucks to the region in 1999 in Kuwait. Rapid expansion saw us open our first Starbucks location opened in the UAE in 2000.

Since then, we continue to draw upon the region’s century-old coffee traditions which have inspired an evolving, innovative modern coffee culture that is multi-sensory and inviting. Our Starbucks Bluewaters Reserve is a true embodiment of our approach. Source: Zawya (https://bit.ly/3sN10Lk)

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.57

Aldar Marks Ras Al Khaimah Entry, Acquires Al Hamra Mall for Dh410 Million platform, we are assessing opportunities to deploy further capital into new geographies and property types as part of an overarching growth strategy.

This initial transaction is very much in line with our plans to leverage Aldar Investment’s strengths to grow, diversify further, and create significant value for our shareholders.”

Abu Dhabi-based Aldar has acquired the Al Hamra Mall in Ras Al Khaimah for Dh410 million, marking its first investment in the emirate.

As part of the agreement, Aldar has also secured development rights for an extra 11,200 sqm of gross floor area, with an option to acquire an additional 7,400 sqm for retail and commercial use.

Completed in 2009, the 27,000 sqm mall has been developed by Al Hamra, a Ras Al Khaimah-based real estate development and investment company.

The transaction adds further scale and diversification to Aldar Investment, which manages more than Dh22 billion of income-generating

residential, retail, commercial, hospitality and education assets.

Aldar Investment plans to invest to reconfigure the mall, broaden its offerings, introduce more high-quality brands, and enhance the customer experience to drive sales and footfall growth.

Commenting on the transaction, Aldar Group CEO Talal Al Dhiyebi said: “Ras Al Khaimah represents an attractive opportunity for Aldar, due to the emirate’s demographics, strong market dynamics, and tourism sector fundamentals. It has emerged from the pandemic as a key investment destination within the UAE and we look forward to growing our presence over time. Through the Aldar Investment

Jassem Busaibe, CEO at Aldar Investment, added: “As the UAE retail sector continues its robust recovery from the global pandemic, the acquisition of Al Hamra Mall provides Aldar Investment with a significant transformation opportunity in a key development zone in Ras Al Khaimah. Our business has proven remarkably resilient in the challenging environment of the last two years, continuing to deliver steady recurring income.

We are therefore in a strong position to expand through acquisitions such as this and deploy our world-class asset management capabilities to deliver significant upside in terms of valuation and income.”

“Al Hamra Mall is one of the flagship retail and leisure destinations in Ras Al Khaimah and the Northern Emirates. We created a high-value asset which is now being further enhanced by Aldar through its strategic investment. This reflects the tremendous potential of Ras Al Khaimah as a retail and tourist hub that can attract significant inward investments,” said Benoy Kurien, CEO of Al Hamra Group. Source: Gulf News (https://bit.ly/3JHLV4K)

Saudi Pharmacy Chain Al-Dawaa Targets to Exceed 1000 Stores After $500m IPO The company earlier set the offering price range at SR65 ($17.3) to SR73 per share, aiming to float 30 percent of its SR850 million capital.

The firm’s e-commerce platform “doubled in size last year and this is undoubtedly also a focus for growth going forward,” he stated.

With respect to expansion, he said the business has a huge prospect for growing its brand portfolio, supported by favorable market conditions.

Saudi Arabia’s Al Dawaa chain of chemists aims to grow its store network, improve its brand image, and grow its e-commerce business, after its imminent $500 million initial public offering, the company’s commercial director has said.

Listing represents a chance to “strengthen AlDawaa’s brand presence and future growth potential as well as reinforce our commitment to the highest standards of corporate governance,” Fahad Al-Farraj told Arab News.

The company currently operates more than 900 pharmacies across 130 cities in the Kingdom, having opened 87 new branches in 2021.

Proceeds from the offering will be used to feed that strategy and enhance automation across the company’s supply chain, he said.

It aims to increase this to at least 1,065 stores by 2025.

Al-Dawaa ends its book-building process today, with individual subscriptions invited between Feb 27 and March 1.

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.58

“Over the past couple of years, we have been growing a portfolio of own brands, such as Ronzac our ‘nutraceuticals’ brand, which gives us the opportunity to expand outside our existing channels to market within Saudi Arabia, such as grocery stores.”

As the pandemic weighed on businesses globally, 2020 was “an exceptional year” for the pharma retailer as it was among the few organizations allowed to operate during the lockdown, said AlFarraj.

Al-Farraj reiterated that Al-Dawaa has “recently completed the automation of its main warehouse facility.” Source: Arab News (https://bit.ly/3LNctD8)

Saudi Alhokair to Leverage Microfinance Across its Wide Retail Network, Says CEO

Saudi-based franchise retailer Fawaz Abdulaziz Alhokair Co. will start offering microfinance solutions across its wide network of retail stores in the Kingdom, Vogacloset, and other platforms.

The retailer’s revenue from online operations reached SR171 million ($45.5 million) in the nine months ending Dec. 31, the company’s chief executive officer, Marwan Moukarzel, told Argaam.

Alhokair currently has 1,400 stores, 300 of which are located outside the Kingdom, and its brand

portfolio comprises a total of 85 brands, according to Moukarzel.

“The company opened 63 stores in the first nine months of 2021/22 and is planning another nine stores in the fourth quarter of the same fiscal year, including Flying Tiger and Alo Yoga,” he said.

Following the recent franchise agreement with US food brand Subway, the executive added that the company is planning to add over 145 Subway outlets in the next six years.

As the pandemic-hit economy recovered, the retailer managed to swing from losses into SR82.7 million net profit in the first nine months of its fiscal year in 2021.

The company saw a 46 percent hike in revenue during the same period, which was the main driver of the improved results, it said in a bourse statement earlier.

Source: Arab News (https://bit.ly/34UZv5V)

Luxury Global Hospitality Brands Open Up on Saudi Red Sea Coastline in Flurry of Announcements Business hotel Four Points

by Sheraton and luxury brand Shangri-La will cut the ribbon on new locations in Jeddah this week, while Kempinski will open a fivestar hotel on the coast of Al Muhar Island, part of the coastal city of Yanbu.

The three resorts offer direct access to the Red Sea waterfront.

These ventures fall in line with Vision 2030, aiming at promoting tourism and hospitality on the Saudi Red Sea, which is known as one of the last untouched coastlines in the world.

Three luxury hospitality brands have announced plans to open new hotels on the Red Sea Coastline in a boost for the Saudi tourism industry.

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.60

Harnessing the tourism industry is one way for the Kingdom to diversify its revenue base.

Bernold Schroeder, CEO and chairman of Kempinski Group, said: “We are impressed with

the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 and strategic planning, which aims to create a hub for international trade linking East and West. Expanding our portfolio in Saudi Arabia is a crucial and important step for Kempinski.”

The Red Sea project plans to attract 1 million tourists a year by 2030 and add $4 billion to the Kingdom’s gross domestic product per annum.

It will also generate 35,000 jobs, under plans outlined in 2017.

In an analysis published on Thursday, Karen Smith Diwan from the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington said the project was part of Saudi Arabia’s “ambitious” economic diversification plans.

“If fully realized, this new tourism infrastructure will form an alternate economic platform that greatly expands Saudi Arabia’s traditional focus on religious tourism and has the potential to reshape the social and political contours of the long-predominant oil economy,” she wrote.

Source: Arab News (https://bit.ly/3gWQtI5)

Book your Ad Now!

Contact MECS+R Office Today:

Take full advantage of our online professional shopping centre and retail magazine design tool and build wellcrafted visuals that raise your company profiles locally, regionally and globally.

Mariz Matocdo, Marketing Officer e: customercare@mecsc.org m: +971 55 5517605 / +971 56 548 1380 t: +971 4 516 3061

Want to be on the cover?

Call us now!!!

Featuring:

MESHAAL BIN OMAIRH GROUP CEO AL OTHAIM INVESTMENT CO.

The Rebirth of Retail in Saudi Arabia “As one of the market-leading mall operators in the Kingdom, Al Othaim intends to become the region’s 1st choice community shopping and entertainment destination for both tenants and shoppers.”

P14

ROSHN

Integrating Retail & Communities in Saudi Arabia

P16

HAMAT HOLDING

Announces New Expansions in 2022

P18

CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN

Building a Digital Future

www.mecsc.org/site/publications/RPM

Join the region's leading Retail and Shopping Centre Event

DECEMBER 5-6, 2022 DUBAI, UAE WWW.RETAILCONGRESSMENA.COM

M E C S +R D I R E C TORY 2 02 2 SUBMI T Y O UR L IS TI N G BE F O RE M A RC H 1 0 , 2 0 2 2 TESTIMONIALS

YOU CAN BE IN HERE TOO!

MECS+R is now accepting entries and submission of data for the 2022 MECS+R Directory. Submit now to make sure your updates will be processed.

Sponsorship and advertisement are also available.

The MECS+R is a great reference and resource tool for the industry. As a Global retailer, we also look at developments in existing and new markets to expand our business. The MECS+R Directory provides us with the information required – Ishwar Chugani, Managing Director, Giordano ME FZE Being a member of MECS+R has a lot of benefits and one of the most important advantages is to have the MECS+R Directory, which I consider as a bible for the industry in the region where it gives you access to the information of all Mall and Retailers, Service Providers in the region. If you are operating Retail in MENA, then you must have this book – Kamel Shaban, CEO, SOLO

FOR ANY INQUIRIES REGARDING THE DIRECTORY PUBLICATION PLEASE CONTACT:

Justin Espiritu, Publishing and Database Manager, e: publishing@mecsc.org | w: www.mecsc.org | t: +971 5432 08359, +971 4 516 3059

Russia’s Retail Trade Turnover up 7.3% YOY in 2021 — Rosstat

Thailand’s Central Retail Eyes Metaverse in $3bn Drive to Double Sales

must provide a reason and respect a certain notice period when terminating a partnership. Compliance is monitored by an independent arbitrator, who suppliers can also contact in case of complaints. Source: Retail Detail (https://bit.ly/3LJUWvQ)

Urban Outfitters full-year sales surge, names new North America president

The retail trade turnover in Russia moved up by 7.3% year-on-year in 2021 to 39.2 trillion rubles ($526.5 bln) incomparable prices, the Russian Federal State Statistics Service (Rosstat) said on Wednesday. The retail trade turnover in December 2021 gained 5.4% annually to 4.1 trillion rubles ($55 bln). In 2021, 95.4% of retail trade turnover were formed by trading companies and individual entrepreneurs. The share of retail markets and fairs was 4.6% (in 2020 - 95.3% and 4.7% respectively). Source: TASS.COM (https://bit. ly/3I6qUA3)

LaLaport to make Southeast Asian debut in Malaysia

The retail arm of Thailand’s Central Group will spend more than $3 billion over the next five years to better reach shoppers both online and at stores, with the aim of boosting sales 2.5 times.

The group’s listed store operator Central Retail is also experimenting with selling products on the metaverse and will spend up to a quarter of the 100 billion baht ($3.04 billion) investment on technology, CEO Yol Phokasub said as the company released a five-year plan Tuesday.

Central Retail aims to expand earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization by 3.5 times and lift its market capitalization by 2.5 times by 2026 compared with 2021 figures.

Part of the plan calls for strengthening the retailer’s omnichannel presence by merging physical and virtual worlds and leveraging new digital technologies to deliver next-level shopping experiences across all business segments. Source: Asia Nikkei (https://s.nikkei.

The Urban Outfitters group has posted a record $1.33 billion of sales in its fourth quarter to mark an increase of 13.9% on pre-pandemic levels two years ago.

The owner of the Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie and Free People brands said comparable retail segment net sales increased 14%, driven by strong doubledigit growth in online sales, partially offset by low double-digit negative retail store sales primarily due to reduced footfall.

Reporting on the performance of its individual brands, the group said sales at Free People, Anthropologie and Urban Outfitters rose by 49%, 14% and 3% respectively.

Source: Retail Gazette https://bit.ly/3t2YZLk

com/33xugNt)

Amazon is Officially a Supermarket, Much to its Chagrin

Pepkor expands to South America with acquisition of Brazil’s Avenida : SA

Japanese lifestyle shopping mall, Lalaport, is set to open its first Southeast Asian location in Malaysia next month at Bukit Bintang City Centre (BBCC).

The Mitsui Fudosan-owned shopping mall is set to open its doors to the public on January 20, featuring a tenant mix of about 400 stores from global and Japanese brands, including those making their first appearance in Malaysia such as Nitori and Nojima.

LaLaport BBCC marks the chain’s second international location after Mitsui Shopping Park LaLaport Shanghai Jinqiao, and will also be one of Lalaport’s largest commercial facilities in the world with more than 82,600sqm of floor space.

Inspired by ‘modern simplicity’ and ‘Japanese flavor’ design concepts, LaLaport BBCC brings to life a “stylish appearance befitting city center locations complemented by a warm interior design conducive for shoppers to spend the entire day in comfort”.

Source: Retail News Asia (https://bit.ly/3v2rkEa)

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.64

Amazon is gradually becoming a big fish in British food retail: total turnover from food and groceries has surpassed the one billion pound mark. For the British Competition and Market Authority (CMA), this was a signal to take action: every British retailer selling groceries worth more than one billion pounds is considered a food retailer and must comply with the Code (in full: the Groceries Supply Code of Practice).

This Code is a set of rules surrounding the formation and termination of contracts with suppliers to protect the supermarket chain’s suppliers from exploitation and unfair trading practices. Among other things, the Code stipulates that retailers may not suddenly change their supply contracts. Supermarket chains

JSE-listed Pepkor, which owns retail brands including Pep, Ackermans and Incredible Connection, has acquired Brazilian value retailer, Avenida, effective from 4 February 2022. Pepkor, which is Southern Africa’s largest retailer by store footprint, plans to significantly grow Avenida’s presence in Brazil.

Representing less than 4% of Pepkor’s market capitalisation, the transaction enables Pepkor to partner with Avenida’s founder-led management team in Brazil to “unlock significant growth” in the largest economy in Latin America, the retail group said.

Pepkor said that after more than two years of research into emerging market opportunities and thorough due diligence by management and various advisors, Avenida was identified as a strong strategic fit. Source: Zawya (https://bit.ly/33x8OrU)

Kohl’s Promises 400 New Sephora Shopin-Shops

The 400 new shops add to the 200 locations already in place between the two retailers. Kohl’s aims to have 850 Sephora shop-in-shops by 2023.The new locations span 36 states, eight of which are brand new homes to Sephora at Kohl’s. The shop-in-shops mimic freestanding Sephora stores, featuring a 2,500-squarefoot, fully immersive beauty experience. Kohl’s aims to bring in customers through its doors who know the beauty retailer, with a curated assortment of makeup, skincare, hair and fragrance brands, as well as clean beauty and self-care. In addition, the shops feature Sephora-trained Beauty Advisors to provide beauty consultations and assistance with finding products. The partnership with Sephora has helped Kohl’s in “driving sales, bringing in new, younger and more diverse customers, and enabling cross-category purchases across all lines of business,” the company said in a press release. Source: Retail Leader (https://bit.

BRAVO, One of Largest Retail Chains in Azerbaijan, Automating Sale Processes with Set Products

Azerbaijan’s BRAVO supermarket chain has updated its cash register solution. Currently, cashiers in all 88 shops of the chain work on touch-screen cash registers in the Set Retail system, the interface of which has been translated into Azerbaijani.

With the replacement of cash register software, the retailer solved several problems at once: it stabilized data exchange between internal IT systems, received new tools for marketing campaigns, and due to the open Set Retail API, it can connect new services for business development. The first successful pilot is facial recognition for payment using the Smile Pay service. Source: Trend News Agency (https://bit.ly/3v2kH4s)

ly/3h0jgeQ)

Sales of Top India Retailers Surpass PreCovid Levels

Sales of top retailers such as Reliance Retail, Shoppers Stop, Aditya Birla Fashion & Retail (ABFRL), Avenue Supermarts, Bata and Titan surpassed pre-Covid levels in the October-December quarter, with Reliance Retail and ABFRL reporting their highest ever quarterly revenue and profit.

The growth last quarter was driven by the festive and wedding seasons, top executives of these chains said in recent earnings calls. Both ecommerce and store revenue increased as compared to earlier quarters, when online sales were primarily driving the business.

Reliance Industries joint chief financial officer V Srikanth told analysts that the retail business of the conglomerate achieved almost “100% normalisation as far as the operation in stores is concerned, and footfalls were pretty close at 95% of pre-Covid levels” last quarter. Reliance Retail witnessed demand across consumption baskets, he said. Source: Economic Times (https://bit.ly/3I2K0Y0)

Naivas to open stores at Greenspan, Imara Malls

Zomato Leases Office Space

Food delivery company Zomato has leased 300,000 sq ft of office space at Emaar India’s Downtown Capital tower in Gurgaon in one of the biggest leasing deals in the National Capital Region in recent times. The building where Zomato has taken up space is located on Mehrauli-Gurgaon Road. “The building where Zomato has taken space is a JV (Joint Venture) between Emaar India and another developer. Zomato has relocated from existing space an international property consultant facilitated the deal,” a person aware of the deal said on condition of anonymity. Source: Retail Economic Times (https://bit. ly/3LP5ZnB)

Dolce & Gabbana Relaunching Beauty with An Eye on Gen-Z

Supermarket chain Naivas will open two branches at Nairobi’s Greenspan Mall and Imara Shopping Mall in the next two weeks as it steps up its expansion in the country.

The establishment of the outlet at Greenspan Mall, which is owned by Nairobi Securities Exchange-listed property investor ILAM Fahari I-Reit, had been delayed by a court case filed by former tenant Tuskys which is in financial distress.

The retailer is targeting thousands of shoppers around the region with a high population density. “They will be situated at Greenspan Mall in Donholm and at Imara Shopping Mall in Embakasi,” Naivas Chief Commercial Officer Willy Kimani said in an interview with Business Daily.

The two branches come as Naivas races to defend its market leadership against its closest rivals in the retail space that have also been expanding in the past few months. Source: Business Daily Africa (https://bit.ly/3LP7WR0)

Doclce&Gabbana has become the first Italian fashion house to bring its beauty division in-house, a move that the CEO said Tuesday would strengthen the link between beauty and fashion and help build inroads with younger consumers. CEO Alfonso Dolce said developing products with a new team at the Milan headquarters will allow more creative tie-ins with runway collections, “creating a more global, transversal experience,” that he said would bring the brand “closer not only to our loyal customers but also new Gen-Z clients.” The Milan fashion powerhouse made the move after its licensing deal with Shiseido was terminated last year, the latest in a series of licensing agreements that Docle&Gabbana had entered since launching fragrances 30 years ago.

Source: Economic Times (https://bit.ly/35aITXI)

RETAIL PEOPLE . FEB - APR 2022

.65

Cairo , y t a n i d all Ma M r i A n e at Op

N E P O W NO

hrain

all, Ba M a n a D at

Drive retail leasing performance & improve the customer experience.

Yardi Retail Manager is designed to help asset managers optimise mall & shopping centre revenue by automating key retail metrics & leasing activities.

Key features • Drive new deals & shorten leasing cycles • Streamline agreements for specialty leasing • Real-time access to leasing & performance information • Illustrate real-time & future occupancy • Minimise risk & increase value

Contact us to learn more about our products for retail real estate.

+971-04-4322679 | Yardi.ae ©2020 Yardi Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Yardi, the Yardi logo, and all Yardi product names are trademarks of Yardi Systems, Inc.