Iraq is quietly emerging as a significant growth market for the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector in the Middle East. While it may not dominate headlines like Saudi Arabia or the UAE, Iraq’s unique market dynamics are attracting renewed interest from major consumer brands and recruitment specialists. Why FMCG Companies…...
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Trade Marketing: The Unsung Driver of Growth in a Margin-Pressured GCC Market
The consumer goods landscape in the GCC is undergoing a seismic shift. Price sensitivity is at an all-time high. Margins are under immense pressure. Retailers are leaning hard into promotions, private labels, and discounting models. Amid this disruption, Trade Marketing is emerging as the critical function that can either preserve…...
Hiring for FMCG in the GCC? Here’s What Top Brands Get Right
By Jasim Altaf The FMCG hiring landscape in the GCC is transforming rapidly. With market dynamics evolving in countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, and Qatar, top consumer brands are taking a strategic approach to talent acquisition—because in today’s competitive environment, hiring the right people is directly tied to business…...
Silal Strengthens UAE Agrifood Sector with Majority Stake in Al Bakrawe Holding
In a significant move, ADQ-backed Silal has acquired a majority stake in Al Bakrawe Holding, one of the UAE's leading distributors of fresh fruits and vegetables. This acquisition further enhances Silal’s position as a major player in the UAE’s food supply chain. Al Bakrawe, founded in 2002, sources from over…...
Private Equity Gains Stability, but Full Recovery Remains Out of Reach: 2024 Mid-Year Report
After two turbulent years, the global private equity (PE) sector has found some stability, as highlighted by Bain & Company’s 2024 Private Equity Midyear Report. While the worst may be over, the path to a full recovery remains fraught with challenges. The report emphasizes that the sector's activity continues to…...
M&A Advisors Facilitate Mega Deal Between Off-Price Retailer and Global Giant TJX
In a significant development within the retail sector, leading M&A advisors have successfully advised the off-price retailer, Brands for Less, in its strategic partnership with TJX, a global leader in off-price apparel and home fashion retail. The landmark deal is expected to create far-reaching opportunities for growth, further positioning Brands…...
Saudi Healthcare Giant Tibbiyah Acquires Al Hammad Medical Services in $9 Million Deal
Tibbiyah, a prominent healthcare company in Saudi Arabia, has expanded its footprint in the sector through the acquisition of Al Hammad Medical Services. This deal, valued at SAR 35 million ($9 million), represents a key milestone for Tibbiyah as it strengthens its portfolio and enhances its position within the Kingdom’s…...
Bahrain to Impose 15% Minimum Tax on Large Multinational Enterprises Starting January 2025
Bahrain is set to introduce a significant tax reform aimed at multinational enterprises (MNEs), with the government implementing a domestic minimum top-up tax of 15% on large corporations beginning January 1, 2025. This new tax regulation will apply to multinational companies with global revenues exceeding $828.23 million (EUR750 million), as…...
The Impact of Vision 2030 on the GCC Job Market
In recent years, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries have embarked on ambitious initiatives to diversify their economies, reduce dependence on oil, and create more sustainable and inclusive economic models. Among these, Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 stands out as a transformative blueprint aimed at reshaping the kingdom’s economic and social…...
Protein Bars: The Key Drivers of Future Category Growth for Chinese Consumers
As protein bar sales grow globally, new opportunities are emerging. Learn the three top drivers of future growth in protein bars, according to our consumer research. Read the full article here...