In this episode of What’s in Store, we sit down with Mark Lack, CEO of Circle K Arabia, to explore the rapid expansion of Circle K in Saudi Arabia and the broader GCC region. Mark shares insights from his 40-year career in retail, spanning multiple formats and countries, and discusses the unique challenges and opportunities of growing a convenience store empire in a post-pandemic world. From Circle K’s innovative franchise model to the role of technology in supply chain management and customer engagement, this episode dives deep into what it takes to scale operational excellence while staying true to community roots. Tune in for an engaging conversation on leadership, retail innovation, and the future of convenience in the region.

In this episode, Mussaab Aboud, Deputy CEO of Grandiose, joins us to discuss the company’s vision of blending traditional supermarket experiences with dining and gift-giving elements. The conversation covers key strategies, such as leveraging market trends and upholding high standards for quality and customer service. Mussaab also highlights technological advancements like traffic tracking systems and loyalty programs. The episode delves into challenges such as market saturation and private labeling while offering insights into staff training, rapid expansion, and future trends in the retail industry, including sustainability and digitalization.

This episode delves into the fascinating world of Tamimi Markets with Ghada, the Chief Strategy Officer. We explore her journey from an academic background in engineering to a strategic role in retail, emphasizing her passion for logical thinking, problem-solving, and customer-centric marketing. Ghada shares insights on Tamimi’s strategic vision, focusing on providing an exceptional family feel and localized customer experience, leveraging technology for operational excellence, and maintaining a balance between innovation and traditional values. We also discuss recent initiatives aimed at enhancing customer engagement, loyalty, and the challenges and trends shaping the retail industry in Saudi Arabia. Tune in to discover how Tamimi Markets continues to evolve and set itself apart in the competitive retail landscape.