UAE-based halal food producer Al Islami Foods, proudly announced today its partnership with Saudi distributor Abbar and Zainy Cold Stores (AZCS), as part of a five-year plan to reinforce channel expansion and market growth in the region.
From July 2010, Al Islami products are available in all locations within the AZCS distribution chain across the Kingdom.
Al Islami’s expansion into the SR2bn frozen meat market exemplifies new initiatives to build a stronger regional presence and increased market share. With the implementation of aggressive growth plans and strategic brand awareness campaigns, it is predicted that the Saudi channel will generate an annual turnover of over SR100m by 2013.
Sheikh Saleh Abdullah Lootah, CEO Al Islami
With a 28 million-strong population, the Saudi market is the largest in the Gulf region for Food and Beverage, representing 63% of the $9bn GCC market. Al Islami will continue to cater to the market’s demands for real Halal meat that has been hand-slaughtered without stunning according to Islamic Shariah.
“We chose to partner with Abbar & Zainy Cold Stores because of its well-established distribution network and longstanding success with leading brands, and we look forward to the activation of this strong and mutually beneficial relationship,” commented Saleh Abdullah Lootah, Managing Director, Al Islami Foods.
“We are certain that our reputation for excellence in producing real halal, quality products will be upheld and we anticipate that consequent company growth will be significant,” he added.
A model of Al Islami cart as displayed at the World Halal Forum in Kuala Lumpur
“Our success over the years directly corresponds with our strategic affiliations with well reputed regional and international brands and companies,” remarked Abdelkarim Abbar, Director of Business Development, AZCS.
“Currently we service over 18,000 retail outlets through our direct retail distribution network. With a long term objective to increase sales by 100% by 2012 we have aligned with leading international brands and we are proud to welcome Al Islami to our portfolio. We look forward to enjoying a long-term and successful relationship”
The Abdullah Abbar & Ahmed Zainy Company was established in Makkah on 18 December 1954 as the first venture of the partnership between its founders. Over the half century that followed, the company, now known as Abbar & Zainy Cold Stores, has developed into one of the leading importers and distributors of foodstuff in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. In February 2010, the Abbar family completed the buyout of the Zainy family’s shares and now controls 100% of the company.
