*** ----> LuLu Group International to double Bahrain investments | THE DAILY TRIBUNE | KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

LuLu Group International to double Bahrain investments

TDT | Manama    

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

LuLu Group International, the leading retail chain in the region, plans to nearly double its total investment in Bahrain to over BD200 million by opening three more hypermarkets in the next three to four months, as well as other projects.

This significant increase in investment is expected to provide a substantial boost to the Kingdom’s economy and create over 1,000 more jobs in the Kingdom, where the group currently employs over 800 Bahrainis.

Yesterday, LuLu Group Chairman and Managing Director Yusuffali MA revealed that the group is opening the new hypermarkets as part of a BD100 million investment in the Kingdom, as he announced the opening of the group’s 10th hypermarket in Gudaibiya.

The 40,000-square-foot store was inaugurated by Deputy Prime Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa in the presence of Yusuffali MA, Jameel Humaidan, the Minister of Labour, Abdullah bin Adel Fakhro, the Minister of Industry and Commerce, Wael bin Nasser Al Mubarak, the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Agriculture, and Vinod Jacob, the Indian Ambassador to Bahrain.

The latest expansion further strengthens the presence of the UAE-based group in the Kingdom, where its investments exceeded BD130 million in 2019 alone.

This is set to increase substantially in the next quarter, as LuLu Group plans to open three additional hypermarkets, thereby creating more than 1,000 jobs by the end of the year.

Yusuffali further said, “We have already commenced construction at three new sites, and we anticipate the stores’ opening very soon.”

With the upcoming hypermarkets in Manama Centre, Avenue Mall, and Diyar Al Muharraq, the total number of Lulu hypermarkets in Bahrain will reach 13.

Deputy Prime Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, who patronised yesterday’s opening ceremony, praised LuLu Group for its strong support of Bahrain’s economy.

“The new store signals the confidence LuLu Group has in the vision of the leadership of Bahrain and its belief in the excellence of Bahrainis as partners in success in line with Bahrain’s development march,” Yusuffali said in his inaugural address.

Yusuffali emphasised the group’s commitment to prioritising Bahraini products in its stores, stating that this approach will provide a boost to Bahraini entrepreneurs.”

Yusuffali also expressed his appreciation for the Bahrain team, acknowledging their achievement in winning the GCC-wide award for having the highest number of Bahraini employees working for the group, both within Bahrain and in other nations.

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10th branch in Gudaibiya

The newly opened LuLu Hypermarket in Gudaibiya, spanning two levels, offers residents convenient access to an extensive array of high-quality products and services. Within this facility, LuLu has introduced several key offerings, including:

• an enhanced grocery section with an updated selection.

• A global variety of fresh fruits and vegetables;

• Premium cuts of meat and seafood;

• A well-stocked department store

• LuLu Connect, offering digital and electronics products;

• LuLu Fashion, a popular high-street fashion outlet.

This expansive hypermarket aims to cater to the diverse needs and preferences of its customers, ensuring a comprehensive shopping experience.

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Big job boost

The company offers direct employment opportunities to more than 800 Bahraini individuals, and its supply chain contributes to the sustenance of thousands of other jobs.

As a testament to its commitment to local employment, LuLu was honoured with the most prestigious award in the retail sector for employing the highest number of Bahraini nationals this year.

In addition to its contributions to the economy, LuLu Group also plays a vital role in enhancing Bahrain’s social fabric.

The company serves as a prominent sponsor of both sporting and cultural events, while also extending support to numerous charitable organisations.

Furthermore, the group stands as a staunch proponent of Bahraini products, collaborating closely with local farmers and producers to champion their offerings within its stores.

Food manufacturing, logistics

The LuLu Group has ambitious plans for its future in Bahrain.

In addition to its hypermarkets, the company is actively considering investment opportunities in various other sectors, including food manufacturing and logistics.