As Q4 soon comes to a close, there’s a lot of discussion about what changed and what’s growing in the retail industry in the UAE. Be it in terms of using AI technology, customer satisfaction, and personalized service, the competition only keeps increasing. Experts believe they have improvised their operations through data analytics but are still facing real challenges from economic uncertainty, supply chain issues, and data privacy regulations.
Andreas Hassellöf, CEO of Ombori, commented saying, “Is about empowering store employees to create better shopping experiences. While AI, IoT, and data analytics help retailers understand what customers want, it’s the frontline retail employees who turn these insights into meaningful interactions.”
Store teams need the right tools to provide personalized service and solve customer problems effectively. Andreas believes that although retailers have improved their operations through data, they still face real challenges—from economic uncertainty to supply chain issues and data privacy regulations.
“Looking ahead to 2025, the UAE market shows particular promise, as retail staff combine AI, AR, and IoT with their expertise to create experiences that truly connect with customers,” Hassellöf noted.
Sulin Sugathan, Director of Retail, Royal Furniture, highlighted that ‘innovation’ stood out as a vital element in 2024: “One key takeaway has been the importance of fostering growth by expanding our reach and refining our offerings to better serve our customers. We’ve seen firsthand how embracing fresh ideas can set us apart.”
Sulin remarked that strategically positioning his brand in key locations underscores the importance of meeting consumers where they are, ensuring that we remain top of mind in an increasingly competitive space. He also believes that looking ahead to 2025, the retail industry will undoubtedly face its share of challenges.
“Adapting to ever-evolving consumer preferences and trends will require agility and foresight. The dynamic nature of the retail landscape means that staying competitive demands continuous innovation, while managing operational efficiencies amidst economic fluctuations remains critical,” he noted. However, the overall outlook for 2024 witnessed steady market confidence throughout the year for Sugathan.
Meanwhile, Kareem Abughazaleh, Founder & CEO, Foodie Holdings, said, “As a leading independent catering provider in the F&B sector, Foodie Holdings, parent to Blast Catering and Dish Catering, sees the catering and F&B industry evolving rapidly, driven by shifting consumer preferences, sustainability, and technology.”
Abughazaleh also highlighted a similar challenge: “Supply chain disruptions remain a critical challenge, especially in the Middle East. To navigate these hurdles, caterers are building strong relationships with local suppliers and designing adaptable menus that can accommodate changes in ingredient availability and cost. This adaptability ensures continuity while managing rising expenses.”
Here’s what his plan looks like for 2025. He believes innovation and digital transformation will be key drivers of growth in the F&B sector: “The region’s growing focus on luxury events and corporate catering presents significant opportunities for businesses to elevate their offerings.”
By embracing sustainability and leveraging technology, industry players are setting new benchmarks for excellence, ensuring their relevance in an ever-changing market.
