The GCC retail industry is projected to surpass $390B by 2028 (LOGIC Consulting). Q3 2025 reinforced that trajectory with market shifts, bold tech rollouts, and major M&A.

Homegrown Shift: Majid Al Futtaim’s HyperMax

This September, Majid Al Futtaim launched HyperMax in Bahrain and Kuwait, an independently owned grocery brand. The move highlights a regional shift as retailers move from global banners to homegrown brands better aligned with local sourcing and community empowerment.

Landmark M&A: Al-Futtaim × Cenomi

On Sep 15, Al-Futtaim completed its SAR 2.52B acquisition of a 49.95% stake in Cenomi Retail, a leading fashion and lifestyle player in Saudi Arabia. The deal expands Al-Futtaim’s Saudi footprint and accelerates Cenomi’s restructuring.

Digital Pricing: ADCOOP’s 100% ESL Flagship

On July 17, ADCOOP opened its flagship store in Abu Dhabi—the first UAE store with 100% electronic shelf labels. Beyond labor savings, the move sets the stage for dynamic pricing and future computer-vision layers, aligned with ADCOOP’s refreshed brand identity.

Category Expansion: Sur La Table (Apparel Group)

In late July, Apparel Group introduced Sur La Table at Dubai Hills Mall with Marquee Brands. The launch reinforces the group’s role as a gateway for global brands entering the GCC while meeting rising demand for premium, “maker-driven” experiential retail.

Lulu’s Triple Play: Store, Solar, and Value Formats

• Network Growth: Lulu opened its 260th store in Dubai on Aug 18.

• Sustainability: Announced a solar rooftop rollout across Dubai sites with Positive Zero, cutting costs and boosting ESG.

• KSA Value Blitz: On July 16, Lulu launched three “LOT” value stores in Makkah, Saihat, and Riyadh—evidence of rapid execution.

Recognition: Panda Retail’s Hypermarket of the Year

Panda Retail was named “Hypermarket of the Year - Saudi Arabia” at the Retail Asia Awards 2025, entering Q3 with momentum. Their investments include AI-powered price optimization and digital upgrades across 60% of stores: a clear sign large-format players are embracing tech as convenience and personalization redefine grocery.

Market Entry Pipeline: Spinneys × Alshaya in Kuwait

On Aug 22, Spinneys announced a joint venture with Alshaya Group to open ten stores in Kuwait. Spinneys will hold a 51% stake and lead operations, while Alshaya brings local expertise and infrastructure.

As Q4 begins, Gulf retail is entering a new phase of sharper local banners, digitalized shelf-to-checkout journeys, and operational sustainability. #GCCRetail #RetailLeadership #DTEK