SouqExtra!'s Al Ain supercentre expands prior to launch

What was initially planned as a 15,000 square foot, single floor development has now been expanded to 80,000 square feet on two floors even prior to launch to accommodate the growing requests from consumers for a comprehensive retail shopping service, and from retailers who wish to build a presence in an area with a great potential for growth.

"This expansion prior to the actual launch underscores the viability of the SouqExtra! concept and its potentially powerful impact on the retail landscape in the UAE initially, and across the region eventually. This very niched retail service addresses a primary need for a growing Emirati population. We're delighted with the feedback so far, and are making adjustments that are still based on set tactical plan for future growth," said Saleh Lootah, Founder and Managing Director, SouqExtra!

There will be 25 major services on offer, including cafés, fast food restaurants, men's and women's fashion outlets, children's entertainment as well as other services that enjoy popularity among shoppers. The development will have parking spaces for 125 cars, and daily footfall is estimated to cross 8,800.

Lootah noted they are keeping growth projections of 15% by 2012 based on the initial estimates, but expressed confidence growth figures could be surpassed.

The first SouqExtra! outlet is due to open at Ewan Residences in the first quarter of 2009, followed by three more located in Al Barsha, Al Quoz and Al Muhaisnah in the third quarter of next year. Additionally, the expansion plan includes Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Ras Al Khaima and Fujairah between 2010 and 2012.

SouqExtra! is a pioneering branded lifestyle supercenter model, representing an innovative retail concept, shaped by extensive research into outlet positioning as well as quality and variety of services offered. It focuses on providing access to amenities and services that connect consumers' professional and family life to the larger community, giving life more meaning and Extra!

Several reputed investors have put in their investments in this pioneering concept including the Lootah Group, Emirates Post Group, National Bonds Corporation, Bonyan Holding, Abbasi Group and a group of high net worth individuals.