Dubai, UAE, September 1, 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. Over the years, the company has not only grown its brand portfolio, strengthened its channels, and embraced sustainability and technology in all its operations, it has also taken concrete steps towards promoting its core values and strengthening its position as an innovator and market leader.

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 the brand, 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 organizations 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 run supermarket. According to the World Bank, women make up over 50% of the UAE's university graduates and around 45% of the workforce, demonstrating the important role that women play in the country's economy and society. Additionally, 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. 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.” said Rajiv Warrier, CEO of Choithrams GCC.

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. In addition to these, 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.” said Rehana.

In a world where gender diversity and inclusivity have become buzzwords, it is organizations 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. It is exciting to work alongside an all-women team and I have no doubt that we are going to provide a unique and high-quality shopping experience for our customers. Personalized service and a welcoming atmosphere are sure to help them feel valued and appreciated” said Store Manager, Naina Tejwani.

Choithrams has always been dedicated to promoting diversity, equality, and inclusion in the workplace. The company has taken several initiatives to empower women and promote gender diversity in the UAE including the establishment of an internal diversity and inclusion committee, the provision of flexible work arrangements for women, and specialized training and development programs for its female staff.

“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, Choithrams' all-women store is geared to be a game-changer in the UAE's retail industry, hopefully setting an example for other organizations 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.