Book chain opens new growth chapter

The first move was completed yesterday with the signing of a franchise agreement to open three stores in Qatar.

Similar deals are under negotiation in other GCC countries.

Magrudy's was established in 1975 and now has five Dubai outlets, with a sixth flagship store opening in Dubai Festival City early next year and its first branch in Abu Dhabi around the same time.

In preparation for this expansion Magrudy's underwent a professional Franchise development programme with International Consulants, 'Franchise Development Services.

"The Magrudy's franchise proposition provides an exceptional mix of brand, product and operations resources" says Tracey Furey Managing Director of Franchise Development Services UAE.

The Qatar expansion is in partnership with Doha's Falcon Home Entertainment and will fill a long-felt gap in the city's retail makeup. Falcon's chairman, HE Sheikh Khalid Bin Ahmed Bin Abdullah Al Thani, expressed his delight at bringing a renowned brand to Qatar and providing the Doha community with a great literary resource.

"Qatar is in a state of flux right now, much like Dubai was several years ago, and it is a great time to develop the book retail market which has been underserved in the past," he said.

Jonathan MacDonald, Magrudy's chief business development officer, explained that the company's expansion drive was in response to market demand and the shortage of quality bookshops in the region.

"Apart from Dubai, most towns and cities in the GCC region are starved of access to a comprehensive range of English and Arabic books," he said. "In fact, many GCC residents make special trips to Dubai to stock up their bookshelves."

The first Qatar branch of Magrudy's is expected to open in The Centre, Doha, early next year with two more planned, including a large flagship store.

Magrudy's owners Abdullah and Isobel Abulhoul are equally excited about their company's growth. "This agreement signals a new era for the company," said Mrs Abulhoul.

"Falcon is a great choice for a franchise partner, as they have extensive experience of the retail business in Qatar through their music store chains. We are looking forward to working closely with Falcon to bring the quality of product range and customer service that customers have come to expect from Magrudy's outlets in Dubai."

Doha residents have welcomed the prospect of having access to well-stocked and modern bookshops. "One of the most common complaints amongst expats here is the lack of a decent bookstore", said Fiona Murray (an expat living in Doha and a keen reader).

"For some reason, throwaway thrillers and self-help books seem to be the only variety on offer here so we are excited about having world-standard bookshops on our doorstep. Magrudy's also has an excellent range of children's fiction and educational books, which you currently can't get in Doha."