Rise in demand for local products; retailers expand shelf space

Retailers across the UAE are increasing shelf space for locally produced goods, reflecting a nationwide push for industrial growth and consumer demand for homegrown alternatives.

- Azza Al Ali [e-mail]

“We've been promoting UAE-made products through our Emarat Al-Awwal initiative for seven years,” said Saifee Rupawala, CEO of Lulu Retail Holding. “Since last year, we've partnered with the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology to roll out the Make it in the Emirates campaign across all Lulu hypermarkets in the country.”

According to Rupawala, the retailer is working with local manufacturers to increase visibility and sales, targeting at least a 10 per cent growth in UAE-made product sales. The group uses a mix of in-store branding, catalogues and promotions to highlight domestic items. “Local producers are generally in line with international quality standards, so there’s no issue sourcing from them,” he added.