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Choithrams first women-run store in the UAE has opened its doors!
1 September 2023
| Last updated on 1 September 2023
Choithrams, one of the region’s leading retail and distribution chains has recently launched its first one of its kind all-women run store in the UAE!
Having opened its first store in the country in 1974, Choithrams has continuously taken meaningful steps towards its vision of success.
Setting a new standard for inclusivity in the UAE, the company has opened doors to its brand-new store on the 19th of July 2023 in Dubai’s popular Marina Wharf 2 area.
This first and only operationally women-run supermarket in the UAE, marks a major milestone for Choithrams, taking its commitment towards gender diversity and empowerment to a whole new level.
The store is entirely managed by female staff, with all roles from stockers to cashiers and the Store Manager being fulfilled by women.
“By giving women employees equal opportunity to be hired, paid, trained, appraised, rewarded, and promoted, Choithrams is positioning itself as a torchbearer in empowering women in organisations and corporations, in line with the UAE’s roadmap for gender diversity in the workplace," said Rehana Raj, Head of Retail Operations - UAE.
As a country that has made significant progress in promoting women's empowerment, the UAE is the perfect location for the launch of the first ever all-women operated supermarket.
Women in the UAE workforce
According to the World Bank, women make up over 50% of the UAE's university graduates and around 45% of the workforce, showing the important role that women play in the country's economy and society.
The UAE has implemented several initiatives to support women entrepreneurs, providing them with training and mentorship opportunities.
“At Choithrams, we are constantly challenging ourselves on what we can do next to action our commitment towards a diverse, equitable and inclusive workforce," said Rajiv Warrier, CEO of Choithrams GCC.
"Our women leaders have done a remarkable job over the years, and we will continue to increase their representation in decision making roles in the future. The launch of this store is the first of many more women-led initiatives to come," added Rajiv.
Open 24 hours a day with free delivery
The new store that spans close to 5,200 square feet will continue to deliver on the brand’s promise of offering a wide range of top-quality products at exceptional value.
The store will be open 24 hours, ensuring that customers can shop at their convenience, while also offering a free home delivery facility, for easy access at all times.
The store offers a wide variety of high-quality products, ranging from a daily baked bakery range to fresh salads and sandwiches.
Customers can also choose from a fresh range of imported and local fruits and vegetables, the best quality and choice of meat, poultry, and fish, and a selection of imported, specialty, and organic products across categories. An assortment of flowers and gift items are also available at this new Choithrams store.
A go-to destination for a variety of customer-favourite brands, one of the main USPs of this new store is the range of women's niche products that are not readily available in other stores.
"At Choithrams, we believe that our customers should have easy access to high-quality products that cater to their unique needs. By offering a range of women's niche products that are not readily available in other stores, we are providing our customers with a shopping experience that is truly tailored to their requirements," added Rehana.
In a world where gender diversity and inclusivity have become buzzwords, it is organisations like Choithrams that help pave the way for the future by promoting these values.
“I am extremely proud and humbled to be part of this new initiative by Choithrams," said Store Manager, Naina Tejwani.
She continued: "Personalised service and a welcoming atmosphere are sure to help them feel valued and appreciated."
Training and growth opportunities
“As part of its commitment towards empowering women to excel in their careers, Choithrams has recently introduced a new initiative to train and promote women as Store Managers. The company’s target of achieving a minimum of 20% women in its managerial staff by 2024 is evidence of its dedication to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace culture," said Natasha Ghosh, Marketing Manager - GCC.
A household name in grocery retail, trusted by millions of families in the region, the Choithrams all-women store is geared to be a game-changer in the UAE's retail industry, hopefully setting an example for other supermarkets to follow.
With women making up the entire staff at this new location, this store is not just another supermarket; it is a testament to the fact that when women are given equal opportunities, they can achieve great things.
