Retail - Samstag, März 7, 2009 18:07 - 1 Comment

A pioneer in Dubai’s shifting retail landscape

Dubai: From his mezzanine floor office at the Mazaya Centre, Jayant Ganwani, chief executive of Lal’s Group, could see part of the old Jumeirah 1 - a place that is yet to change, unlike other districts of Dubai that until recently were racing each other to change and grow.

This patch of land is still dominated by typical Arabic villas with open spaces and some modern designer bungalows that reflect peaceful coexistence of tradition and modernity - something the UAE is well known for.

A few shops, a cafeteria - run mostly by some residents from the southern Indian state of Kerala - serve the essential grocery needs of the small community.

On the other side, however, lies Shaikh Zayed Road - a vibrant landscape that is changing and growing constantly - outpacing time, or so it feels.

Dubai’s retail landscape has also changed over the last decade and a half - although not as fast as real estate. The current econ-omic situation is forcing retailers to rethink strategies. Continue…