Majid Al Futtaim, regional shopping centre operator and developer, invited homegrown businesses and small- to medium-enterprises to City Centre Al Zahia to participate in the Big City Centre Vote.
The vote saw discussions of how the developer’s shopping centres can help growing companies establish a stronger retail footprints and access wider consumer pools.
With intentions to accelerate the growth plans of such businesses, Majid Al Futtaim hopes to support entrepreneurship in the country’s market.
Participating businesses included Maitha Al Ansari, ready-to-wear fashion brand, Wafa Balaswad, luxury fashion brand, RollDXB, roller skating concept, Barakah Studio, boutique yoga and Pilates wellness space and numerous restaurants, including 71 Steak & Grill, Mara Lounge Restaurant and Aryad Café.
The vote complements Majid Al Futtaim Launchpad, the developer’s accelerator programme, which seeks to expedite and boost growth plans and strengthen commercial viability of start-ups and small- and medium-sized enterprises in the region.
The programme gives these companies marketing support to reach more consumers and opportunities to create new revenue streams by capitalising on Majid Al Futtaim’s retail and online channels.
Also invited to participate in the City Centre Al Zahia vote was community group Real Mums UAE. Mothers were given the opportunity to share their consumer preferences with Majid Al Futtaim.
Mothers indicated that they want shopping centres to serve as a learning experience and house children- and family-friendly spaces, such as dedicated playing areas.
They also suggested scenery experiences to be integrated into shopping centres to entertain people of determination and more outdoor and casual dining options.
Family parking spaces, earlier opening hours and increased visibility of sales and promotional campaigns were also discussed by Real Mums UAE.
