AL-FUTTAIM RETAIL
As a host to some of the world ’ s leading and most luxurious brands , Al Futtaim prides itself on the strong relationships it has built with brand principles and suppliers in order to achieve a product offering of the highest of quality . This is no difference in the food and beverage space .
“ It ’ s about understanding their business as much as understanding our markets andcustomers ” says Gallager . “ It ’ s about being open . Being open removes risk on both sides . Understand their needs and requirements , explain what you can offer to them and it all makes for a greater relationship that is built on trust and a win / win approach .” This is the same for brand principle and suppliers alike .
Already 12 months into this expansion plan , AL Futtaim ’ s
F & B footprint already stretches across four TWG Teas , two Barilla Restaurants , one Super Chix and a central production facility . Over the course of the next five years , Gallager will look to oversee an aggressive expansion that exceeds 80 stores .
A key component in the future of Al Futtaim , will be to continue the company ’ s approach to supplier and partner relationships .
“ When you go into a franchise it ’ s a relationship of trust . They are trusting you with their brand and you ’ re trusting them with their knowledge of the market and consumer ” he says . “ Foster that relationship , grow it and have open conversations – if you can achieve that , and it needs to work on both sides , you can build a relationship that works for both and the customer enjoys the benefits .” 152 November 2017