A new luxury norm? – Chalhoub Group launches white paper to explore the evolving face of luxury in the Gulf
[London: 20 May 2016] Chalhoub Group, the leading partner for luxury across the Middle East, launches today the Group’s fourth white paper, ‘The Evolving Face Of Luxury In The Gulf: On Our Way To A New Norm?’.
Detailed knowledge of the Middle East and its people is at the forefront of Chalhoub Group’s business practices. With over 60 years of experience in the industry, the Group is the go-to partner for major international brands wanting to enter the Middle Eastern market; with extensive experience in building brands in the region across the beauty, fashion and gift sectors.
Following three decades of rapid and strong growth, luxury in the Gulf is going through a period of transition with shifts in the retail landscape and luxury consumers’ profiles, which will undoubtedly re-shape the outlook of the luxury marketplace in the coming years. Chalhoub Group’s fourth white paper sets out to address how the luxury market in the Middle East is evolving as it reaches a maturity phase, and introduce the concept of a New Norm – a new way of doing business to adapt to this changing luxury eco-system.
The New Norm for luxury in the Gulf looks beyond those geopolitical and economic challenges facing the region such as a prolonged period of low oil prices and exchange rate fluctuations; and goes deeper to understand the profound forces that are occurring within the Gulf luxury sector itself – to reveal a more mature face characterized by huge untapped potential.
The Group’s research in the Middle East has found that:
- The number of high-net-worth individuals in the region and their wealth is actually increasing, with numbers set to grow by 40% compared to 25% growth in Europe and North America by 2024; while a growing middle class and number of women in the workplace also represent an increasing pool of consumers with promising purchasing power
- The business environment is more formally defined and framed by regulation addressing governance, labour laws and consumer protection
- The region has one of the highest rates of luxury brand penetration in the world
- The region is displaying a maturing retail environment in terms of expanding available retail space and the variety of shopping environments
- The emergence of digital in the luxury retail sector in the Gulf means that traditional marketing and the conventional in-store retail experience are being upended
- Luxury consumers are evolving and now seek more experiential-focused consumption; comparing prices, service quality and availability of the latest products
With this maturing phase underway, the role of local partner’s such as Chalhoub Group has become even more pronounced in terms of their ability to draw on their extensive experience in the Gulf to support international brands with their development, against a changing luxury backdrop.
The Group’s white paper identifies key attributes of today’s local partner in order to help brands adapt and thrive in the Middle East under the New Norm:
- Shares risks
- Fosters operational efficiency through economies of scale and “plug and play” shared services
- Applies its networks and knowledge of the region to help address the increased complexity of regulations and decision-making – for example, in order to ensure a smooth registration process, Chalhoub Group operates special compliance teams to prepare the required documentation and then follow-up with local authorities to ensure fast approval
- Leverages its extensive customer experience to impart customer-centric, bespoke product offers and services – for example, Chalhoub Group’s Guest Experience Initiative, designed to take the luxury shopping experience to the next level
- Nurtures innovation to create market-relevant and compelling shopping experiences – for example, Chalhoub Group’s unique concept store, Level Shoes in Dubai Mall, which delivers a revolutionary, immersive shoe experience across 9,600sqm
Patrick Chalhoub, Co-CEO Chalhoub Group, commented: The Gulf region has witnessed a period of abundance for the past 25 years with the building of incredible infrastructure and the development of the education of its young and vibrant population.
It is now entering a new phase of maturity, of knowledge, of seriousness and of stronger governance. Despite the immediate geopolitical and economic challenges, this is a region of wealth and of steady growth. To be successful, we will have to be aspirational, meaningful and competitive, and adapt to the changes and to the New Norm.”
Ends
ABOUT CHALHOUB GROUP
The Chalhoub Group is the leading partner for luxury across the Middle East since 1955. As an expert in retail, distribution and marketing services based in Dubai, the Group has become a major player in the beauty, fashion and gift sectors regionally.
By blending its Middle East expertise and intimate knowledge of luxury, the Chalhoub Group is building brands in the region, by offering service excellence to all its partners and a unique experience to its customers.
With a growing workforce of more than 12,000 people, implemented in 14 countries, as well as operating over 650 retail stores, the Group's success is attributed to its most valued asset: highly skilled and dedicated teams. Professionalism and passion are what fuel the Chalhoub Group's competitive edge in today's market.
By being committed to implementing sustainable practices into their business, the Chalhoub Group was awarded in 2015, for the third consecutive year, the CSR Label from the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and has been accepted in 2014 as a new member of the United Nations Global Compact Community.
For more information, please visit www.chalhoubgroup.com
or contact Rachel El Helou on: Rachel.ElHelou@mailmac.net
Al-Futtaim and Chalhoub Group sign joint venture agreement
Partnership brings Singapore’s iconic fashion department store ‘Robinsons’ to Middle-East
Dubai, January 28, 2016: Al-Futtaim, one of the most progressive regional business houses headquartered in Dubai, has signed a Joint Venture agreement with the Chalhoub Group, the leading partner for luxury across the Middle-East. This agreement consists of bringing Singapore’s leading fashion department store Robinsons to the GCC and the Middle-East region.
The first Robinsons department store to be launched in the region, will open in spring 2017 at Al-Futtaim’s Dubai Festival City Mall, which is currently undergoing a major expansion programme. Spanning a total of 18,000sqm across three levels, the store will be the first of many to follow in the GCC.
Paul Delaoutre, President – Retail, Al-Futtaim said: “Al-Futtaim has already been operating four Robinsons department stores in Singapore and Malaysia and through our partnership with the Chalhoub Group we will bring this unique format department store to the Middle East expanding the brand’s footprint and strengthening its international appeal.”
“Robinsons department stores in the GCC will be offering contemporary fashion covering the full spectrum, from accessible to luxury in a relaxing environment where fashion is alive. We will focus on novelty and style, a large part of the offer will be completely new to the Middle East.
In 2008, Al-Futtaim acquired the Robinsons Group, regarded as Singapore’s legacy retailer. The Group is currently operating three Robinsons stores in Singapore and one in Malaysia. Over its 150 years of operation, Robinsons department store has become synonymous to Singapore and its fashion retail industry.
Patrick Chalhoub, Chief Executive, Chalhoub Group said: “We are excited about this partnership as we will be combining Al Futtaim’s vast experience of operating over 200 companies with our intimate knowledge of the Middle-East luxury market and consumers, in order to deliver the most relevant offer of the Department Store adapted to the Middle East customer who is now knowledgeable and assertive.”
Thierry Prevost, Managing Director – Fashion and Department store, Al-Futtaim Retail said: “The Robinsons department store in Dubai Festival City Mall will offer customers exclusive fashion brands across categories for women, men, kids, beauty, home and lifestyle, food and beverages in addition to unique services.”
He added: “The store will redefine fashion retail, with unique, innovative and interactive concepts, exclusive product offerings, innovative interior design and intuitive visual merchandising. We are very excited about the future of Robinsons in the Middle-East and look forward to making further announcements soon.”
The store will also feature a number of restaurants with terraces and breathtaking views overlooking the Creek and Dubai’s iconic skyline.
About Al-Futtaim
Established in the 1930s as a trading business, Al-Futtaim is one of the most progressive regional business houses headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Al-Futtaim employs in excess of 42,000 people and operates through more than 200 companies. The group has significantly expanded its business operations in recent years through a strategic acquisition plan and has entered a number of new territories, increasing its footprint beyond the GCC and Greater Middle East to encompass South East and North Asia, Australasia, East Africa and Europe. Structured into four operational divisions; automotive, financial services, real estate and retail. The success of Al-Futtaim is attributed to proactively managing change whilst upholding the values of integrity, service and social responsibility. The majority of businesses, built on a portfolio of world leading brands, dominate their sector.
About Chalhoub Group
The Chalhoub Group has been the leading partner for luxury across the Middle East since 1955. As an expert in retail, distribution and communication based in Dubai, the Group has become a major player in the beauty, fashion and gift sectors regionally. By blending its Middle East expertise and intimate knowledge of luxury, the Chalhoub Group is building brands in the region, by offering service excellence to all its partners and a unique experience to its customers through its passionate teams. With a growing workforce of more than 12,000 people, implemented in 14 countries, and a network of over 650 retail stores, the Group's success is attributed to its most valued asset: highly skilled and dedicated teams. Professionalism and passion are what fuels the Chalhoub Group's competitive edge in today's market. By demonstrating commitment to sustainable business, the Chalhoub Group was awarded in 2015, for the third consecutive year, the CSR Label from the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and has been accepted in 2014 as a new member of the United Nations Global Compact Community.
About Robinsons
The Robinsons story began on 25 February 1858, when John Spicer and Philip Robinson founded Spicer and Robinson in Singapore. Since that, Robinsons pioneering spirit has kept them at the forefront of Asian retail and since 2008, Al-Futtaim Retail Group has been succeeded in operating Robinsons Department store in Singapore leading the department store to be the best performing ones in South-East Asia. The brand is committed to offering customers an unrivalled choice of the world’s best brands with exceptional standards of customer service and after sales support.
For More Information Please Contact:
Khulood Ahli,Marketing Manager
Tel : +971 56 548 7025
Email
khulood.ahli@alfuttaim.ae
www.al-futtaim.ae
And
Rachel El Helou,Events & PR Specialist
Tel: +971 4 804 5000
Email
rachel.elhelou@mailmac.net
www.chalhoubgroup.com
The Chalhoub Group’s new venture in the F&B world
Chalhoub Group, the leading partner for luxury across the Middle East, is pleased to announce its first venture in the Food and Beverage (F&B) world. Over the past 60 years, the Group has gained extensive expertise in the beauty, fashion and gift sectors, and intimate knowledge of the region’s market and consumers.Based on the Group’s various studies conducted over the years, they have been able to identify opportunities and gaps in the market, allowing them to create innovative concepts, foster strong partnerships, and build successful brands - always making sure to answer the customer’s needs and aspirations.
Leveraging their deep understanding of the luxury industry, the Chalhoub Group decided to embark on a new journey in the F&B world; creating a dedicated F&B division which aims to bring and develop innovative restaurant concepts in the Middle East region.“We are very excited about this new venture. With the rapidly expanding F&B sector in our region, it’s an opportunity for the Group to add value through the expertise and knowledge acquired of its markets and consumers.” said Patrick Chalhoub, co-CEO of the Chalhoub Group.
The F&B division is now operational and managing three exciting restaurant concepts launched in the UAE, including La Pâtisserie des Rêves - a French pâtisserie and restaurant now open in Chalhoub Group’s new specialty store TRYANO in Yas mall, Abu Dhabi. A second branch is planned to open soon in the Group’s upcoming Level Kids concept in City Walk, Dubai.
Another restaurant that the Group is now managing is the VOGUE Café at The Dubai Mall, located within Level Shoes. The Café offers a carefully curated contemporary menu that seamlessly combines the best of international cuisine and fashion.The third concept is Aubaine, a true blend of cosmopolitan style and French cuisine. The restaurant is now open in Dubai Mall and offers a range of authentic bread, exquisite patisserie and classic French dishes.
With the opening of a new F&B division, the Chalhoub Group is reinforcing its position as a leader in the retail market and a true partner for those who are looking to build and develop their brands in the region.
ABOUT CHALHOUB GROUP
The Chalhoub Group is the leading partner for luxury across the Middle East since 1955. As an expert in retail, distribution and marketing services based in Dubai, the Group has become a major player in the beauty, fashion and gift sectors regionally.By blending its Middle East expertise and intimate knowledge of luxury, the Chalhoub Group is building brands in the region, by offering service excellence to all its partners and a unique experience to its customers.With a growing workforce of more than 12,000 people, implemented in 14 countries, as well as operating over 650 retail stores, the Group's success is attributed to its most valued asset: highly skilled and dedicated teams. Professionalism and passion are what fuel the Chalhoub Group's competitive edge in today's market.By being committed to implementing sustainable practices into their business, the Chalhoub Group was awarded in 2015, for the third consecutive year, the CSR Label from the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and has been accepted in 2014 as a new member of the United Nations Global Compact Community.
For more information,
please visit www.chalhoubgroup.com
or contact Rachel El Helou on: Rachel.ElHelou@mailmac.net
Chalhoub Group announces its newest concept store, Level Kids
Chalhoub Group, the leading partner for luxury across the Middle East is pleased to announce Level KIDS: the second “Level” concept that is dedicated to children’s luxury.
Level KIDS will be part of the “Level” master brand, which aims to be the international luxury reference for the Group’s own retail concepts across several mono-categories and formats. Each “Level” store offers a unique luxury experience in international curated category shopping whilst being simultaneously dynamic, fashionable, expert and distinctive.
Level SHOES was the first born into the “Level” family in 2012 and is an award winning retail concept store, dedicated to shoes that has established itself on the local and international scene.
With the launch of Level KIDS in early spring of 2016, “Level” aims to add yet another single category concept, which aspires to become the international reference in the children’s luxury category.
Spanning over 10,000 SQM of retail space with over 200 brands, Level KIDS will be the first concept of its kind devoted to children aged from 0 to 12 years old, offering a comprehensive selection of childrenswear, shoes, accessories, toys and specialised services under one roof.
The unique concept store will extend over three floors: one dedicated to premium luxury brands; one to contemporary designers, which also features a shoe area; and a third floor dedicated to urban trend brands, with a specific area for newborn and nursery products.
Level KIDS will also offer specialised services ensuring an enjoyable experience for both the kids and their parents, including a spa, photo studio, birthday room, interactive classroom, a VIC room (Very Important Children), concierge and kid’s play area; as well as a custom gifting area. In addition, the store will feature two internationally renowned food and beverage restaurants.
This exclusive concept will be set in the young and lively environment of Dubai’s City Walk. City Walk is the ultimate open-air destination, offering a diversity of high-end lifestyle options located on Al Safa Street.
“Over the past 6 decades we have built an intimate knowledge of the region and an understanding of our Guest’s expectations. We are very excited about this new project, responding once again to a gap in the market and the demands and needs of our consumers. Our aim is to create a fashionable, wonderment, playful and quintessential destination for both the parents and their kids, which is set to become the international reference for the children’s luxury retail space. We have been fortunate to be part of this region and its evolution and we want to make sure that we always offer our consumers the best in choice, experience and service.” said Patrick Chalhoub, co-CEO of the Chalhoub Group.
ABOUT CHALHOUB GROUP
The Chalhoub Group has been the leading partner for luxury across the Middle East since 1955. As an expert in retail, distribution and communication based in Dubai, the Group has become a major player in the beauty, fashion and gift sectors regionally.
By blending its Middle East expertise and intimate knowledge of luxury, the Chalhoub Group is building brands in the region, by offering service excellence to all its partners and a unique experience to its customers through its passionate teams.
With a growing workforce of more than 12,000 people, implemented in 14 countries, and a network of over 650 retail stores, the Group's success is attributed to its most valued asset: highly skilled and dedicated teams. Professionalism and passion are what fuels the Chalhoub Group's competitive edge in today's market.
By demonstrating commitment to sustainable business, the Chalhoub Group was awarded in 2015, for the third consecutive year, the CSR Label from the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and has been accepted in 2014 as a new member of the United Nations Global Compact Community.
For more information, please visit www.chalhoubgroup.com
or contact Rachel El Helou - Events & PR Specialist
+971 (0)4-804 5000
rachel.elhelou@mailmac.net
TRYANO, Chalhoub Group’s latest specialty store
Chalhoub Group, the leading partner for luxury across the Middle East and Aldar, one of the most trusted and recognised real estate lifestyle developers in Abu Dhabi and beyond, are pleased to announce the opening of TRYANO.
TRYANO is Chalhoub Group’s latest specialty store, located in Yas Mall, the leading destination for shopping, dining and entertainment, located in the heart of Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.
The opening of TRYANO coincides with the first anniversary of Yas Mall, which takes place on 19th November. Over the past year, Yas Mall has quickly established itself as an award-winning destination that caters to visitors and tourists of all ages and cultures.
Through the past 60 years, the Chalhoub Group has built strong partnerships with international brands and acquired an intimate knowledge of the Middle East markets and consumers. This deep understanding has been the main catalyst for creating innovative concept stores filling a gap in the market with depth and choice.
The Group’s latest concept is TRYANO, a specialty store dedicated to three categories. It caters to the dreams and aspirations of the local customers, in addition to those visiting the island. This 20,000 square metre shopping heaven will host one of the largest varieties of beauty, bags, and children’s products in the UAE. The store also offers numerous bespoke services and is house to the iconic La Pâtisserie des Rêves.
“We are very excited about this new project. The Abu Dhabi market has grown quite tremendously in the past few years but is still lacking of specialty and department stores; this is why we have decided to create TRYANO based on our expertise and know-how of the market, consumers and retail sector. Yas mall is a family destination and we strongly believe that our offer is the right fit for the consumers visiting the mall as we complete its choice with a variety of categories and brands.” said Patrick Chalhoub, co-CEO of the Chalhoub Group.
Boasting over 250 of the most sought-after international and local brands, TRYANO immerses shoppers on a unique shopping experience creating an ever evolving retail experience in the ‘Garden of Imagination’. The beauty space, with its frosty demeanour is inspired by winter and located on the Ground Floor. The customer moves from fragrance to make-up to skincare through boutiques, corners and multi brand areas. On the opposite side of the floor, the bags area takes its cues from spring, with soft rugs and bespoke sculptural tiles. On the first floor, children navigate through an interactive, imaginative and playful landscape inspired by the summer season.
“Today’s consumers are not only looking to purchase a certain product. They are looking for an experience; they expect to be taken on a journey. TRYANO provides customers with an experience that is simultaneously ALIVE, ENTERTAINING, SPECIALISED and REMARKABLE. The store is inspired by the nature’s changing seasons, ever evolving and ever changing. We are aiming to bring to the Abu Dhabi consumers something different; a destination of truly exceptional experiences.” said Linton Crockford-Moore, Creative Director of the Chalhoub Group.
TRYANO is also announcing a new and exciting partnership with Etihad Guest, award-winning loyalty programme for Abu Dhabi national carrier – Etihad Airways. Etihad Guest members can earn Etihad Guest miles when making purchases at TRYANO and thus making the shopping even more rewarding.
Yasser Al Yousuf, Managing Director of Etihad Guest, commented on the partnership: “Our partnership with TRYANO is another example of our continuous efforts to expand the range of our loyalty program offering, providing our valued Etihad Guest members with rewards and benefits beyond a flight experience. Abu Dhabi is well known as a premium destination and by partnering with some of the best lifestyle brands it hosts, like TRYANO, we ensure that Etihad Guest remains at the heart of the lifestyle scene in the city.”
Hamdi Kulahcioglu, General Manager of TRYANO said: “We are looking forward to welcoming our Guests to TRYANO where they will embark on an enchanting journey through an array of bespoke services and a large variety of beauty, bags and children’s products from sought-after brands. TRYANO is a friendly destination where shopping is taken to a whole new level. Come and discover TRYANO and join us on a journey into the ‘Garden of Imagination’.”
ABOUT TRYANO
At TRYANO, guests do far more than shop; they embark on an extraordinary journey.
With the opening of its doors in November 2015, TRYANO serves as the crowning touch to Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi. Bespoke services and a one-of-a-kind collection of over 250 of the most sought-after and coveted international and local brands await guests within an immersive and entertaining environment. 20,000 square metres devoted to the best of beauty, bags and childrens’s products transform into a playground for the entire family.
Rich, colourful and diverse, the store’s three levels invites shoppers to explore a Garden of Imagination featuring inspired displays and centre pieces ranging from a magnificent carousel, to a state-of-the-art digital fountain. As no special experience is complete without a sweet treat, the iconic Parisian restaurant “La Pâtisserie des Rêves” provides a perfect setting for families to indulge in.
A little pampering is always an excellent idea. The unique surrounding of TRYANO comprises numerous bespoke services, offering our guests an array of comforts complementing the store’s three categories. These services will immerse the consumer in a remarkable and memorable journey that caters to even the most intricate requests.
At TRYANO, where shopping and entertainment go hand in hand, guests are transported from the ordinary to the remarkable.
For more information about TRYANO, please visit: www.TRYANO.com.
Or contact Ludmilla Laradi, PR Coordinator, Ludmilla.laradi@mailmac.net
ABOUT CHALHOUB GROUP
The Chalhoub Group is the leading partner for luxury across the Middle East since 1955. As an expert in retail, distribution and marketing services based in Dubai, the Group has become a major player in the beauty, fashion and gift sectors regionally.
By blending its Middle East expertise and intimate knowledge of luxury, the Chalhoub Group is building brands in the region, by offering service excellence to all its partners and a unique experience to its customers.
With a growing workforce of more than 12,000 people, implemented in 14 countries, as well as operating over 650 retail stores, the Group's success is attributed to its most valued asset: highly skilled and dedicated teams. Professionalism and passion are what fuel the Chalhoub Group's competitive edge in today's market.
By being committed to implementing sustainable practices into their business, the Chalhoub Group was awarded in 2015, for the third consecutive year, the CSR Label from the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and has been accepted in 2014 as a new member of the United Nations Global Compact Community.
For more information, please visit www.chalhoubgroup.com
or contact Rachel El Helou, Events & PR Specialist: Rachel.ElHelou@mailmac.net
ABOUT YAS MALL
Yas Mall offers an exciting range of leading international and regional retail and F&B brands, a 20 screen state-of-the-art cinema operated by VOX Cinemas and a family entertainment zone by Fun Works.
Yas Island is situated roughly 15 minutes from the Abu Dhabi International Airport and downtown Abu Dhabi and 45 minutes from Dubai, making it an attractive and accessible destination for both residents and tourists. A selection of seven hotels can be found on the island including the luxurious Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi, as well as a range of top attractions comprising: Yas Marina Circuit; Ferrari World Abu Dhabi; Yas Water World; Yas Links Golf Course; 7 leading hotels; and Yas Retail Park which includes IKEA and Ace Hardware.
For more information:
Website: www.yasmall.ae
YouTube: http://youtube.com/yasmallad
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yasmallad
Twitter and Instagram: @yasmallad
Hashtag: #YasMall
Chalhoub Group awarded “Retailer of the Year”
The Chalhoub Group is proud to announce that it has been awarded “Retailer of the Year” by the Fashion Footwear Association of New York at the gala dinner “Shoes on Sale” organised by the FFANY. The event took place at the Waldorf Astoria hotel in New York on October 19, 2015 in the presence of 1200 VIP, trade and media. Ron Fromm, President & CEO of the Fashion Footwear Association of New York presented the award to Patrick Chalhoub, co-CEO of the Chalhoub Group and recognised the Chalhoub Group’s contribution to the fashion and footwear industry; he thanked the Group for their commitment to this great humanitarian cause fighting against Breast Cancer. The Chalhoub Group has always been very supportive of any initiative and organisations that are helping build a sustainable future.
The Chalhoub Group is the leading partner for luxury across the Middle East. Since the beginning, in 1955, their vision was to build successful luxury brands in the Middle East, giving them the tools and means to grow and develop. There has been an incredible evolution and expansion of the luxury retail and fashion sector in the Middle East region and the Group has been a key player in this growth especially through its innovative concept stores such as Level Shoe District; awarded “Retailer of the Year” in 2014 by FFANY. This is a unique retail concept and destination, with a new take on shoe fashion, trends, art and design.
“It is an honor to receive this prestigious award especially on the occasion of our 60th anniversary. We have acquired through the years an intimate knowledge of the luxury retail sector in the Middle East region. We have seen an incredible evolution and expansion of this sector and we are proud that we have been a key player in this growth especially through Level Shoe District. I thank the Fashion Footwear Association for recognising our efforts.” said Patrick Chalhoub in his speech after receiving the award.
ABOUT CHALHOUB GROUP
The Chalhoub Group is the leading partner for luxury across the Middle East since 1955. As an expert in retail, distribution and marketing services based in Dubai, the Group has become a major player in the beauty, fashion and gift sectors regionally.
By blending its Middle East expertise and intimate knowledge of luxury, the Chalhoub Group is building brands in the region, by offering service excellence to all its partners and a unique experience to its customers.
With a growing workforce of more than 12,000 people, implemented in 14 countries, as well as operating over 650 retail stores, the Group's success is attributed to its most valued asset: highly skilled and dedicated teams. Professionalism and passion are what fuel the Chalhoub Group's competitive edge in today's market.
By being committed to implementing sustainable practices into their business, the Chalhoub Group was awarded in 2015, for the third consecutive year, the CSR Label from the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and has been accepted in 2014 as a new member of the United Nations Global Compact Community.
For more information, please visit www.chalhoubgroup.com
or contact Rachel El Helou on: Rachel.ElHelou@mailmac.net
Sustainable luxury – Chalhoub Group launches white paper to explore industry approach to sustainability in the Middle East
[London: 19 May 2015] Chalhoub Group, the leading partner for luxury across the Middle East, launches today the Group’s third white paper, ‘Luxury in the Gulf: A Sustainable Future?’ at the Responsible Business Summit.
Detailed knowledge of the Middle East and its people is at the forefront of Chalhoub Group’s business practices. Celebrating 60 years in the industry this year, the Group is the go-to partner for major international brands wanting to enter the Middle Eastern market; with extensive experience in building brands in the region across the beauty, fashion, and gift sectors.
The Group’s research in the Middle East has found that:
• 65% of global luxury consumers surveyed claim that sustainability is not a part of their decision-making agenda when it comes to luxury purchases.
• Instead, 83% of respondents expect the luxury companies they buy from to proactively engage in sustainable practices.
Chalhoub Group’s third white paper sets out to explore the Gulf region beyond the luxury sector, drawing on lessons learnt from the inherent link between basic luxury principles and promoting sustainability in the Middle East. Ensuring the highest quality, the most premium materials and the finest craftsmanship are intrinsic to the luxury sector, but are fast becoming a necessary business priority across all sectors in ensuring sustainable growth and best practice in the region.
The region faces several significant challenges with the following:
• One of the world’s largest energy suppliers and the world’s largest consumer of energy.
• One of the highest youth unemployment rates in the world.
• Countries of the region ranked amongst the top ten nations for foreign aid by volume in the world.
The Group’s white paper sets out a number of sustainable solutions that have been effectively developed and rolled out across the region including:
• The construction of two of the world’s largest eco-cities, including the low-carbon, zero waste Masdar City in Abu Dhabi and Desert Rose in Dubai; demonstrating the region-wide commitment to environmentally-friendly living.
• The Emirati and Saudi graduate programme put in place by Chalhoub Group to attract and retain local national talents.
• The Khalifa Fund – a knowledge-sharing, mentoring and experiential learning initiative, designed in partnership with Chalhoub Group, to empower aspiring entrepreneurs in the UAE and develop a culture of entrepreneurship.
The central theme of this white paper is set against an interesting backdrop of inherent social values which have shaped the culture of the modern Gulf region. These deep-rooted values of community solidarity and trust, combined with the family business model, have proved a culturally appropriate vehicle for the region’s sustainability.
Patrick Chalhoub, Co-CEO Chalhoub Group, commented: “Luxury is adapting to our fast evolving world, and while ancient traditions have shaped Middle Eastern society for centuries, luxury in the Gulf shows a promising future as it echoes these deeply rooted traditions and culture.
With its family-centric structure and its respect for tradition, the Gulf society supports the drive and mind-set for sustainability. We believe that the family business model, inherent to the region’s economic and social fabric, and human resources both have an important role to play in increasing awareness about sustainability and driving engagement in sustainable initiatives.”
ABOUT CHALHOUB GROUP
The Chalhoub Group is the leading partner for luxury across the Middle East since 1955. As an expert in retail, distribution and marketing services based in Dubai, the Group has become a major player in the beauty, fashion and gift sectors regionally.
By blending its Middle East expertise and intimate knowledge of luxury, the Chalhoub Group is building brands in the region, by offering service excellence to all its partners and a unique experience to its customers.
With a growing workforce of more than 12,000 people, implemented in 14 countries, as well as operating over 650 retail stores, the Group's success is attributed to its most valued asset: highly skilled and dedicated teams. Professionalism and passion are what fuel the Chalhoub Group's competitive edge in today's market.
By being committed to implementing sustainable practices into their business, the Chalhoub Group was awarded in 2015, for the third consecutive year, the CSR Label from the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and has been accepted in 2014 as a new member of the United Nations Global Compact Community.
For more information, please visit www.chalhoubgroup.com
or contact Rachel El Helou on: Rachel.ElHelou@mailmac.net
Chalhoub Group launches its education retail campaign in collaboration with Dubai Cares
In line with its ambition to promote and support education in the Middle East region, Chalhoub Group, the leading partner for luxury across the Middle East has launched its yearly education retail campaign in collaboration with Dubai Cares, the UAE-based philanthropic organisation working towards providing children in developing countries with access to quality primary education.
The campaign will offer customers the opportunity to buy silver pins with the word “education” written in Arabic calligraphy. The pins will be available for two months (May & June) in all Chalhoub Group stores across the UAE at a price of AED 25 per pin. The campaign will help spread awareness about education as well as raise funds that will go towards schools in the Arab world.
“We have been in the region for the past 60 years and it is our responsibility to give back to the people living in this part of the world. As a Group, we have adopted the cause of education as a key channel to accelerate the development process believing that it is the first and foundational step in understanding how to address today’s social and environmental challenges in the region. We are pleased to support Dubai Cares through this campaign that aims to provide children with education; a powerful word that speaks to each and every one of us. Using the word in Arabic on the pin is a sign of how proud we are to be part of the region and its culture. In addition, of course, the Arabic calligraphy displays the craftsmanship and heritage, inherent to the region’s social values,” commented Patrick Chalhoub, co-CEO of the Chalhoub Group.
Commenting on the campaign, Tariq Al Gurg, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Cares said: “We are proud of our continued successful partnership with Chalhoub Group. We commend them on their annual initiatives through which they have demonstrated a true commitment to philanthropy and to education in specific. Without education, young generations will struggle to prosper or compete in today’s world. We are confident that the UAE community will widely support this campaign in order to help us reach more children around the world.”
Over the past seven years, Dubai Cares, with the support of the UAE community, has been facilitating change and development in children's education in developing communities around the globe. The organisation is currently reaching more than 13 million beneficiaries in 39 developing countries.
ABOUT CHALHOUB GROUP
The Chalhoub Group is the leading partner for luxury across the Middle East since 1955. As an expert in retail, distribution and marketing services based in Dubai, the Group has become a major player in the beauty, fashion and gift sectors regionally.
By blending its Middle East expertise and intimate knowledge of luxury, the Chalhoub Group is building brands in the region, by offering service excellence to all its partners and a unique experience to its customers.
With a growing workforce of more than 12,000 people, implemented in 14 countries, as well as operating over 650 retail stores, the Group's success is attributed to its most valued asset: highly skilled and dedicated teams. Professionalism and passion are what fuel the Chalhoub Group's competitive edge in today's market.
By being committed to implementing sustainable practices into their business, the Chalhoub Group was awarded in 2015, for the third consecutive year, the CSR Label from the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and has been accepted in 2014 as a new member of the United Nations Global Compact Community.
For more information, please visit www.chalhoubgroup.com
or contact Rachel El Helou on: Rachel.ElHelou@mailmac.net
Chalhoub Group, the leading partner for luxury across the Middle East launches its new corporate website
Chalhoub Group, the leading partner for luxury across the Middle East launched its new corporate website highlighting 60 years of building brands in the region with passion and excellence. The revamped website has been designed to showcase in a simple and modern way the Group’s expertise and added value through different sections: our Group, our activities, our sustainable engagement, the press and a link to the career’s website.
"We are very happy to launch our revamped website coinciding with the year of our 60th anniversary. Our aim is to propose to our external parties whether partners, potential partners, press and job seekers, a tool to learn more about our journey, what the Chalhoub Group committed team members do, our engagement towards the region and its people and the different career opportunities within the Group." commented Patrick Chalhoub, co-CEO of the Chalhoub Group.
"We live in a fast moving digital world. As a leader in our field, it is a necessity to provide tools which are designed and developed to be in line with the latest digital trends. Through this user friendly tool, people will enjoy learning about the Group. The website will be constantly updated with new content and latest news." said Anthony Chalhoub, co-CEO of the Chalhoub Group.
We invite you to discover the new Chalhoub Group website available in three languages English, French and Arabic on desktop, mobile or tablet by clicking on this link:
www.chalhoubgroup.com
About the Chalhoub Group
The Chalhoub Group has been the leading partner for luxury across the Middle East since 1955. As an expert in retail, distribution and communication based in Dubai, the Group has become a major player in the beauty, fashion and gift sectors regionally.
By blending its Middle East expertise and intimate knowledge of luxury, the Chalhoub Group is building brands in the region, by offering service excellence to all its partners and a unique experience to its customers through its passionate teams.
With a growing workforce of more than 11,000 people, implemented in 14 countries, and a network of over 600 retail stores, the Group's success is attributed to its most valued asset: highly skilled and dedicated teams. Professionalism and passion are what fuels the Chalhoub Group's competitive edge in today's market.
By demonstrating commitment to sustainable business, the Chalhoub Group was awarded in 2014, for the second consecutive year, the CSR Label from the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and has been accepted as a new member of the United Nations Global Compact Community.
For more information, please visit www.chalhoubgroup.com
or contact Rachel El Helou - Events & PR Specialist
+971 (0)4-804 5000
rachel.elhelou@mailmac.net
Chalhoub Group, the leading partner for luxury across the Middle East commits to a sustainable strategy
The Chalhoub Group is pleased to announce that it has joined the United Nations Global Compact Community in 2014. The Chalhoub Group is the first luxury group amongst the 207 members in the region to become a member of this prestigious organisation. The UN Global Compact is a strategic policy initiative for businesses that are committed to aligning their operations and strategies with ten universally accepted principles in the areas of human rights, labour, environment and anti-corruption, while most importantly committing to work towards the sustainable development goals of the region.
This initiative and new membership brings the Group into stronger alignment with its commitment and contribution to sustainability, dignity and transparency. It is also anchored in the Group’s values of respect, excellence and entrepreneurial spirit that have been guiding the Group for the last 60 years. In 2009, the Group created a corporate social responsibility programme which has evolved into a holistic sustainability strategy. The Chalhoub sustainable engagement strategy underlines its mission to engage employees and stakeholders in this process.
The aim of this strategy is to contribute to the long-term development of the Middle East through the Group’s dedicated resources. As the leading partner for luxury across the Middle East, the Chalhoub Group has decided to take the lead and act as a role model for the region to ensure a sustainable future for generations to come. This unique model has been tailor-made to the region’s needs. The Group believes that through education, we will be able to address societal, environmental and humanitarian issues. The Middle East is known to have the highest youth unemployment in the world. The Group empowers local youth regionally and internationally through capacity building (partnerships, scholarships and mentorships, entrepreneurship, etc.) reducing the gap between skillset and market demands.
“We are a family business driven by the values of respect, excellence and entrepreneurial spirit. We believe that sustainability is the balance between economic priorities, promoting empowerment for all stakeholders and environmental protection. This year, we are celebrating 60 years of building brands in the region and throughout our journey we have learned and we are convinced thatPress Releasesustainable business is in an opportunity to create value while making the world a better place.” said Patrick Chalhoub, co-CEO of the Chalhoub Group.
Environmental conservation is also a key issue addressed through the UN Global Compact, and as a member, the Chalhoub Group is expected to follow high standards of responsibility. The last half decade has seen unprecedented economic growth for the region, but with this has come an increased demand for energy and natural resources. The Chalhoub Group strives to reduce the environmental footprint through engagement, awareness and efficiency of operations.
“Our commitment to environmental sustainability continues to be driven by the engagement of our stakeholders through an education and awareness process. Several of the GCC countries contribute to the highest rate of greenhouse gas emissions per capita and fall within the scope of our regional operations. The key challenge is turning this trend around is a change of mind-set. We are obliged as a business operation in these countries to advocate for environmental protection.” said Anthony Chalhoub, co-CEO of the Chalhoub Group.
As part of their commitment and through this membership, the Chalhoub Group has promised to release an annual report sharing their sustainability performance. This report has received third party verification from the Global Reporting Initiative, a leading organisation in this field, promoting this way of reporting for organisations to become more concerned about the future.
The Group has embarked on this journey of sustainability knowing the path is long and with many obstacles along the way.
ABOUT THE CHALHOUB GROUP
The Chalhoub Group is the leading partner for luxury across the Middle East since 1955. As an expert in retail, distribution and marketing services based in Dubai, the Group has become a major player in the beauty, fashion and gift sectors regionally.
By blending its Middle East expertise and intimate knowledge of luxury, the Chalhoub Group is building brands in the region, by offering service excellence to all its partners and a unique experience to its customers through its passionate teams.
With a growing workforce of more than 11,000 people, implemented in 14 countries, as well as operating over 600 retail stores, the Group's success is attributed to its most valued asset: highly skilled and dedicated teams. Professionalism and passion are what fuel the Chalhoub Group's competitive edge in today's market.
By being committed to implementing sustainable practices into their business, the Chalhoub Group was awarded in 2014, for the second consecutive year, the CSR Label from the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and has been accepted as a new member of the United Nations Global Compact Community.
For more information, please visit www.chalhoubgroup.com
or contact Rachel El Helou - Events & PR Specialist
+971 (0)4-804 5000
rachel.elhelou@mailmac.net
