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Monoprix Qatar rolls out first-ever sensory-friendly shopping in the country

In a proud endeavor for the entire Group, Ali Bin Ali Holding – Monoprix Qatar has launched ‘Sensory Friendly Hours’ at its Iconic 2022 outlet. This makes Monoprix Qatar the first-ever sensory-friendly hypermarket in the country. The venture, with the slogan ‘Towards a more inclusive community’, was launched on May 14, 2023, in collaboration with Step by Step Centre for Special Needs.

Shopping can be overwhelming for individuals with sensory sensitivities, and Monoprix’s ‘Sensory Hours’ is committed to providing a safe and comfortable environment for all our customers.

The sensory hours, every day from 8am to 10am, include dimming store lights, turning off music and announcements over the PA and mitigating cash register noise. Staff are also encouraged to speak more softly and not perform certain tasks, like gathering grocery carts.

On May 22, the ‘Sensory Friendly Hours’ at Monoprix Iconic 2022 was officially launched at a gathering in the presence of parents and children from Step by Step Centre, Regional General Manager of Monoprix Mr. Sébastien Farhat and Director of Step by Step Centre for Special Needs Mrs. Nasreen Sharif.

The session was headed by the Chair of Psychiatry for Sidra Medicine and Chair of Qatar’s National Autism Plan Working Group, Dr. Waqar Muhammad Waqar Azeem, who provided an overview of sensory processing challenges and their impact. He highlighted the importance of sensory-friendly initiatives and encouraged the community for continued support and participation in sensory-friendly initiatives.

Speaking about the initiative, Mr. Farhat said: “At Monoprix, we want everyone to feel welcome in our stores. Not all needs are visible and small changes can make a big difference to our customers. We pride ourselves on creating an inclusive environment that reflects our commitment to contribute towards creating an inclusive community in Qatar.”

The Step by Step Centre previously trained the enthusiastic Monoprix staff on how to be sensitive in their approach towards customers with sensory difficulties and how to assist them appropriately when required. Reasonable adjustments were suggested and put in place at the hypermarket for the sensory-friendly hours in order to reduce the sensory overload along with the provision of a quiet corner.

Monoprix Qatar’s inclusive shopping venture in partnership with Step by Step Centre for Special Needs is in line with Qatar National Vision 2030 to build a more inclusive society by bringing a positive change and fulfilling our social responsibility.

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Ali Bin Ali Holding supports victims of the earthquake-hit Syria and Turkey

In partnership with Qatar Red Crescent, Ali Bin Ali Holding joined hands to offer urgent humanitarian aid to the survivors of the recent earthquake crisis in Syria and Turkey. The move was necessitated by a global call to action to support the two countries that were hit the most by the 7.8 earthquake magnitude, especially as the death toll increased in the thousands.

In a private meeting at Dohatna Logistics Park (DLP) on February 16, 2023, ABA Holding representatives, Mr. Imad Hashim, Group Communications Manager; Ms. Christine El Salim, Supply Chain Manager of ABA Medical; and Ms. Sona Ghazaryan, Business Development Manager of ABA Logistics, came forward to present the donation items from ABA Medical and ABA Hospitality for the disaster appeal.

For this exercise, ABA Medical provided 5 tons of essential items including: surgery and diagnostics solutions, bandages, dispensers, wheelchairs, depressors, and diagnostic equipment.

ABA Hospitality further contributed 1,200 medical mattresses, designed for users with reduced mobility, chronic illness, disabilities, aging, or injuries, and 1,200 2-ply single color blankets ideal for cushioning the victims in the harsh Middle East winter.

Receiving the donations, Mr. Magid Yousef Eltater, Qatar Red Crescent’s Head of Public Donations, accompanied by Mr. Saif Saad Alajeeli, In Kind Donation Coordinator, was gratified by the generosity shown by ABA divisions. “We are working round the clock in the affected areas to ensure that they are supported. In Syria for example, we are emphasizing on blankets, mattresses, warm clothing and medication as temperatures are below freezing,” said Mr. Eltater.

In a side statement, Mr. Hashim commended the gracious gesture the whole world had demonstrated for the victims. “Such unique acts of kindness go a long way in enhancing unity, coexistence and cooperation among people from different faiths, ethnic backgrounds, race or social status,” he shared.

The donation by ABA Medical and ABA Hospitality is part of the Holding’s all-inclusive responsibility to respond to and integrate social and environmental concerns that affect humanity, while building on its business operations and interactions.

Our prayers and thoughts are with the victims and families affected by the devastating earthquake.

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Kraft Heinz awards International Agencies – CA

Adding a new feather to Ali Bin Ali Holding’s cap, International Agencies – CA received the award of ‘In-store Excellence and Business Delivery Champion’ for the year 2022, from Kraft Heinz. The award recognized the outstanding performance of double-digit growth and consecutive record months throughout the year.

The award was officially handed over to International Agencies on October 31, 2022, by Mrs. Melda Yasar Cebe, Managing Director, Kraft Heinz MEA & Turkey, and Mr. Mustafa Sarikaya, Commercial Director, Kraft Heinz GCC. Also present at the event were Mr. Wadiah Kazan, COO of ABA FMCG, Mr. Selim Hashem, IA-CA Senior Division Manager, and Mr. Nassif Kanazeh IA-CA Sales Manager.

The recognition proves International Agencies – CA division’s unfaltering efforts to deliver the best performance despite the local and global challenges faced in recent years. The division, in cooperation with the Kraft Heinz team, was able to overcome all adversities and achieved the record-breaking performance, making International Agencies the only distributor in Qatar to receive the award this year.

Speaking about the achievement, Mr. Wadiah said: “It is always great to be recognized for your efforts. IA has been associated with Kraft Heinz for more than 30 years and has always delivered on its promise to produce the best market result. I congratulate the entire International Agencies team for this very well-deserved accolade and I am sure they will achieve new heights in the future.”

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Qatar Cancer Society recognizes Monoprix Qatar for support to Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Recognizing Monoprix Qatar’s support to the Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Qatar Cancer Society presented the French Hypermarket with a special appreciation trophy. The trophy was officially handed over to Mr. Alice Kumpraewpan, Customer Service Manager of Monoprix Qatar, on October 26, 2022.

True to their vision of supporting the community, Monoprix stores all over Qatar honored October as the Breast Cancer Awareness Month and made sure to pass the message on to their employees as well as customers.

Pink was the flavor of the month at Monoprix Qatar. Female staff in all Monoprix stores and the head office were seen in pink polo shirts along with pink ribbons to show support to the cause and raise awareness. The Monoprix paper shopping bag was also updated with a special design to reflect the campaign.

Monoprix Qatar also used its official social media platform to maximize the campaign’s reach and posted a video about the importance of breast cancer awareness. Monoprix outlets all over Qatar were branded with information about the campaign, including a QR code donation sticker for customers who would like to donate for the noble cause. Furthermore, a total of 1,000 gift boxes were given out to female customers who came to shop in the Monoprix stores.

Speaking about supporting the Breast Cancer Awareness Month campaign, General Manager of Monoprix Qatar Mr. Sébastien Farhat said: “Monoprix is not just a Hypermarket, we are a community and we believe in supporting our people and society. While breast cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in women, it can also be treated if detected early. It is all about awareness and Monoprix wanted to support Qatar Cancer Society in this noble cause. We took every step possible to reach out to our staff and customers and make this campaign successful.”

 

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Ali Bin Ali Holding launches ‘SNAN’ Food Hall at 21 High st – Katara

Once again offering a unique experience for the people of Qatar, Ali Bin Ali Holding’s Market Hall division has launched ‘SNAN’ Food Hall at 21 High st in Katara Cultural Village.

‘SNAN’ Food Hall was inaugurated on August 1, 2022 by General Manager of Katara Cultural Village, His Excellency Professor Dr. Khalid Bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti and General Manager of Market Hall Mr. Sebastian Farhat. Also present were senior staff of Ali Bin Ali Holding and Katara Cultural Village in addition to members of local media, bloggers and social media influencers.

Built around the globally renowned Food Hall approach, ‘SNAN’ means ‘the tip of the spear’ in Arabic; therefore, ‘SNAN’ Food Hall’s goal is to be at the forefront of any high-end retail food shop in Qatar.

Located right on the main street of 21 High st, along the same line as Galeries Lafayette Doha’s main entrance, ‘SNAN’ is a high-end multi-functional Food Hall with a  truly eclectic European-styled look which blends perfectly well with the classy grandeur of 21 High st.

The building that houses ‘SNAN’ Food Hall is made of wrought iron and glass with a stunning interior. At the very center of the hall is a beautiful grand staircase with wrought iron railings that lead to a separate area upstairs. The colorful mosaic-tiled ceiling exudes luxury and elegance, and gives you a feeling of being in Victorian Europe.

Complemented by exclusive customer service, ‘SNAN’ offers an extensive, high-quality product range sourced from across the world. The retail gourmet section at ‘SNAN’ Food Hall is located on the ground floor with a wide selection of fresh fruits and vegetable. The hall also houses the best premium Colombian coffee house – Juan Valdez, the original Belgium chocolate boutique – Neuhaus and a flower shop.

Offering some delightful gastronomical treats, the elaborate dining space is located on the first floor of the building and consists of a pizzeria and as well as a grill/roastery.

Additionally, ‘SNAN’ Food Hall offers a full bakery and pastry section with the most delicious baguettes, croissants, bread, cakes and more. A dedicated gourmet cheese section that will tempt the taste buds of every cheese lover, and a full Deli with salads, olives, cold cuts, add to ‘SNAN’s’ appeal, making it a must-visit location for Qatar’s cosmopolitan shoppers.

Speaking about the new addition to the Cultural Village, General Manager of Katara Cultural Village , His Excellency Professor Dr. Khalid Bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti said: “Katara Cultural Village is all about showcasing diverse cultures and we are happy to welcome a European styled ‘food hall’ in our premises. ‘SNAN’, with all its grandeur, merges originally with the landscape of Katara – most multidimensional cultural project of Qatar.”

Commenting on the launch, the General Manager of Market Hall Mr. Sebastian Farhat said, “We are proud to launch ‘SNAN’ Food Hall and introduce it as a place that is bursting with flavors from around the world. ‘SNAN’ Food Hall is tipped to be a showcase of all things seasonal and delicious with quality brands and products curated to satisfy the discerning tastes of shoppers. We have ensured that ‘SNAN’ is surrounded by the stunning architecture of 21 High st and nestled within the confines of Katara Cultural Village. That is why we can promise that ‘SNAN’ will deliver far more than a typical shopping experience.”

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ABA Holding launches world’s largest Monoprix store at Place Vendome mall

Ali Bin Ali Holding’s Market Hall division has inaugurated world’s largest Monoprix outlet at Place Vendome in Lusail – the new home for luxury and fashion in Qatar. The renowned French retail chain’s store, which boasts of more than 35,000 high-quality goods spread across its 9,000sqm location, opened its doors to the public on Friday, April 15.

Located on the ground floor of the sprawling Place Vendome, the Monoprix store near Entrance 2 of the mall is not only convenient to find but also easily accessible for shoppers.

The new Monoprix outlet, the chain’s sixth store in Qatar, is everything you would expect from your favorite French hypermarket. Apart from the wide range of local and international brands, the store creates a variety of dedicated in-store experiences for its clientele. From restaurants, candy stores to exclusive electronics, kitchen gadgets and organic food items, Monoprix is here to modify your retail experience.

Apart from the already-popular Monoprix Fish M Fish, SaladM, MCrust, MGrill, MPizzeria and Crepe M Waffles, the new store also has MTacos, which offers the true taste of Mexican Tacos to savor authentic Mexican Street comfort foods. Prepared with fresh ingredients and cooked right in front of the guests, these restaurants have undoubtedly strike the right chord.

Speaking at the soft opening of the hypermarket at Place Vendome, Lusail, Mr. Sebastien Farhat, Monoprix’s Regional General Manager, said: “We are delighted to announce that our newest and largest outlet is now open. Responding to the demands of our loyal clientele, Monoprix is always looking forward to expand its retail footprint in Qatar and our presence at the glamorous Place Vendome is part of that mission. We want the people of Qatar to experience the extraordinary world of Monoprix and enjoy every bit of it. This is not just a hypermarket, it is a world of its own where you can shop, eat and relax.”

Monoprix Qatar is one of the most popular hypermarket chains in Qatar. The retail chain currently has six stores in Qatar: Palm Towers – West Bay, Doha Festival City, Medina Centrale at The Pearl-Qatar, Msheireb Galleria, iCONIC 2022 building in Aspire Zone and the new store at Place Vendome Mall.

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Monoprix Qatar expands presence, opens two new trendy stores

Expanding its already impressive presence in Qatar, Ali Bin Ali Holding’s Monoprix recently opened two new stores in the city. Both the new Monoprix stores mark a vibrant presence in two of the most epochal landmarks in the country. While one is located in the heart of the Doha at Msheireb Downtown, the second one is in the iCONIC 2022 building at Aspire Zone.

Located inside the Galleria mall near its back entrance, Monoprix Msheireb is a shopper’s delight. The 4,300-sqm store is a one-stop-shop for total grocery needs with all fresh food categories, including butchery, delicatessen, cheese counter, bakery and fishery. Like all other Monoprix stores, Monoprix Msheireb also upholds the ‘good food’ concept with an elaborate and well-stocked organic, gluten-free, diet food and protein sections.

Continuing to support local initiatives, the store has a wide range of Qatar-made products across all categories, including food and beverages. Apart from the popular restaurants Mgrill, Mfish, Mpizza and Msushi, the store also houses a Salad Bar, a Mediterranean Counter with fresh salads, and a section for fresh Qatari food.

Located in the iCONIC 2022 building, which is already an indelible part of this nation’s sporting legacy, iCONIC Monoprix is a landmark on its own. The 6,500-sqm store not only features well-stocked isles, but also has ample parking spaces in order to offer maximum convenience to customers.

The trendy concept store also includes the full range of high-quality products Monoprix is known for, along with a dedicated organic food section. Serviced fully by a team of professional, well-trained staff, the outlet also includes the Monoprix concept restaurants that serve an exciting array of special Monoprix dishes made from exclusive recipes.

Both stores have well-planned COVID-safe protocols in place, upholding the highest government-stipulated health and safety standards. The latest Monoprix stores are ready to welcome shoppers and offer them an inimitable shopping experience with a decidedly French touch.

Speaking about the expansion, Regional General Manager of Monoprix Mr. Sébastien Farhat said: “The love and encouragement of our customers has encouraged us to spread our network. The two latest additions to the Monoprix store family hold special significance because of their strategic locations, making them a part of the country’s future. Monoprix Qatar is always looking to diversify our presence and be easily accessible for all people in Qatar.”

Monoprix Qatar is one of the most popular supermarket chains in Qatar. The retail chain currently has five stores in Qatar – West Bay, Doha Festival City, Medina Centrale at The Pearl-Qatar and the new Monoprix stores at Msheireb Downtown Doha and iCONIC 2022 building in Aspire Zone. Monoprix Qatar is continuously working on widening its network and will soon launch new stores in different parts of the country.

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ABA’s Monoprix Qatar celebrates success of FORWARD in the division

After implementing the FORWARD application in February 2019 and using it since then, it was time for Ali Bin Ali (ABA) Holding’s Monoprix division to celebrate the successful implementation. On May 30, 2019, the Monoprix Qatar team and members from FORWARD PMO gathered to commemorate this achievement.

Apart from the team that worked on the FORWARD Project, Regional General Manager of Monoprix Qatar Mr. Sébastien Farhat, FORWARD Project Sponsor Mr. Mohamad Ebrik and ABA Holding PMO Manager Mr. Youssef Farajallah were all there to applaud the hard work the team had put in.

Opening the gathering, Mr. Sebastian said: “Whatever we achieved was because of teamwork. True to the values of Ali Bin Ali S.H.A.R.P, where people are very important, together we made this achievement possible in a short timeframe. It was with all your efforts, particularly the team that developed the requirements as per the needs of the different streams of business, we met our expectations.”

Applauding the efforts of the team, Mr. Ebrik said: “Monoprix is one of the new babies of Ali Bin Ali Holding and the expansion, growth and pace that we have been going through is really good. The ERP solution is now functioning in full swing in the division but it is important that the people behind the system makes it work to its full potential. It is up to you to benefit or not benefit from it. 

“In terms of knowledge and growth, using the best systems in the world is a big plus for you as it increases your value. Next, the FORWARD team will refocus with you on how to enhance what has been delivered.”

It was also the perfect opportunity to recognize the heroes in the division who went that extra mile to make the transition smooth. 

Shyam Thushara Peiris – Senior Accountant, Afroj Alam – Store Financial Controller, Rezaul Karim Bhuiyan – Store Financial Controller, Mohammed Mahiuddin – Store Financial Controller, and Mohammed Ehteshamuddin – Gold System Administrator, were awarded for their outstanding role in the project. 

Dianne Daraman – Accountant, Manohar Pratap – Accounts Assistant, Bimal Khadka – Accounts Assistant,  Bijay Chaulagain – Accounts Assistant, Sajan Shah – Accounts Assistant, Bharat Bhatta – Assistant Accountant, Diana Grace Dolor – Assistant Accountant, and Bipin Neupane – Invoice Control Clerk, were also recognized for their unrelenting support to the project.

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Monoprix West Bay awarded for ‘Best Hygiene Practices for April 2019’

Adding yet another feather to its cap, Ali Bin Ali Holding’s Monoprix outlet at the Twin Tower in West Bay was recognized for ‘Best Hygiene Practices for April 2019’.

The certificate was awarded by Boecker®, the largest public health company in the Middle East.

In a letter dated May 15, the public health company wrote: “Monoprix West Bay achieved the highest score of 92.31% among all Boecker® Q-Platinum clients in Qatar for the Month of April 2019.”

This recognition by Boecker® confirms Monoprix Qatar’s constant endeavors to implement proper food safety practices on its premises, from receipt of raw materials to serving of the end products. The certificate also re-affirms that all food handlers are following the food safety guidelines as per the food safety training conducted by Boecker®.

The iconic French supermarket was introduced in Qatar in 2013 and since then has served quality products to people in the country.

Speaking about this latest addition to their portfolio, Regional General Manager of Monoprix Mr. Sébastien Farhat said: “Food safety is a culture and it should be always adopted to deliver the best to customers. We at Monoprix Qatar have always lived by this value and are elated to be recognized for that effort.”

Boecker® provides a holistic range of products, including Food Safety and Biosecurity across Qatar, Lebanon, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. All Boecker® services are ISO9001:2008-certified. The Boecker® signature Q Platinum Award™ certification has been tailored to meet the needs of small to medium food establishments, a certification assured by the CIEH-UK.

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Ali Bin Ali Holding’s Monoprix awarded at Doha Festival City Retailer Excellence Awards 2018

Adding yet another award to the Ali Bin Ali (ABA) portfolio, Monoprix won the coveted Retailer of the Year Award at the Doha Festival City (DFC) Retailer Excellence Awards 2018. The supermarket was also bestowed with the Best Consumer Service Initiative Award. Doha Festival City is home to the largest Monoprix in the world. 

 

On November 8, 2018 Doha Festival City celebrated its grand opening with a VIP Gala Dinner at Mondrian Doha for the region’s first Retailer Excellence Awards. The awards were designed to recognize the Mall’s valued partners, retailers, shoppers and visitors for their continuous loyalty and commitment.

 

The awards night was made even more special with a one-of-a-kind appearance by global superstar Jennifer Lopez.

 

Present at the event were Regional General Manager for Monoprix Mr. Sébastien Farhat, Commercial Manager for Monoprix Qatar Mr. Zardine Benzaid, Monoprix DFC Store Manager Mr. Bruno Pedretti and Ali Bin Ali Group General Manager – Marketing Ms. Suha Shatila. The event was also attended by VIP guests and members of the local and international media. 

 

It was indeed a moment of pride for the entire Ali Bin Ali family when Mr. Farhat received the awards on behalf of the Monoprix DFC team. 

 

Speaking about the accolades, Mr. Farhat said: “We at Monoprix believe in excellence. From getting the best products from around the world to Qatar to the services we offer for our clients, we want to ace it all. Our determination is backed by complete support from the Ali Bin Ali management and complemented by our passionate staff. I want to thank DFC for recognizing our efforts and also our customers who make us what we are.”