M.H. Alshaya Co. wins Franchise Operator of the Year Award at Retail City

The Award comes less than six months after M.H. Alshaya also won Retail Company of the Year at the Arabian Business Awards.

Mohammed Alshaya, Chairman of M.H. Alshaya Co., said the award recognizes the company's excellence across the more than 40 brands it represents in 13 countries in the Middle East, North Africa and now Eastern Europe.

"We are a company that has created a path for well-known brands to operate in this region and be successful," he said. "Our formula combines developing strong relationships with brand partners, as well as providing world class operations and the best team in the business. This award is a reflection of their hard work."

Since 1983, M.H. Alshaya Co has built a retail franchise business operating in six sectors: fashion and footwear, health and beauty, food, casual dining, optics and pharmaceuticals. The company currently has over 1,200 stores, more than 14,000 employees in 13 countries and represents over 40 of the world's most famous brands including Starbucks, Debenhams, H&M and Boots.

Mr Alshaya continued by highlighting the benefits of franchising to the region.

"Franchising is a business model that has been instrumental in developing the retail sector in the Middle East. It has helped provide much needed jobs and provides service to consumers at all levels of society and in all income brackets."

"Franchising is also here to stay for one simple reason. While this region remains misunderstood by much of the world and there's resulting reticence to enter the market, brand owners also realize a business opportunity exists. This is where the franchisee adds value; we provide the know-how and expertise to develop the business opportunity for the benefit of all."

M.H. Alshaya Co. has recently launched operations in Egypt and is also expanding into Russia, Poland and other emerging markets.