Al Madani Group will open three more stores in Dubai this month with the opening of the Ibn Battuta mall later this week. Among the new stores set to open is the new Levi’s flagship store in the emirates, a Hang Ten store – designed using the new Hang Ten store concept, and Al Thawb Al Watani – the men’s tailoring chain that was launched by Al Madani in 1992.
The residential developments in the Jebel Ali area, combined with the existing business hubs of Internet City and Media City, that are located in the area, will make the Ibn Battuta Mall one of the most popular shopping destinations in the city, and therefore one of the most advantageous retail locations, said Mohammad Al Madani, CEO, Al Madani Group.
“Being present in this area will bring us closer to where a large number of our customers are. Moreover, Ibn Battuta mall is certain to become a shopping centre that is popular not only with residents in the area, but also one that will draw tourists. The brands that Al Madani represents, such as Levi’s and Hang Ten, already have great appeal and shoppers will seek them out wherever they are,” he said.
The new Levi’s store, located in the India Court, has been designed incorporating the brand’s signature Evolution 4.0 store concept, which showcases Levi’s fresh, global appeal. The open ceiling layout of the new store, combined with the ‘spaghetti and pasta’ shelving arrangements and use of the familiar Levi’s red, gives the store a vibrant, upbeat quality.
People shopping at the Hang Ten store at Ibn Battuta will see a reflection of the brand’s return to its surfing roots of the 1960s. Located in the North African Court, the design of the 100 sq mt store is a revival of the ’60s with wood skin interiors and beige and blue décor. This is the first Hang Ten venue outside South Korea to incorporate the brand’s new look store design.
Al Thawb Al Watani’s opening at Ibn Battuta also marks a first for the tailoring chain; the chain, which hitherto specialised in the stitching of traditional Arab men’s clothing, will make its first foray into tailoring of western wear for men. This is the second Al Thawb Al Watani mall-based store and the sixth in the country.
The opening of the new stores is part of Al Madani Group’s strategic growth plans, which include the unveiling of more stores in Dubai and other parts of the UAE by the end of 2005, the launch of new brands, and a diversification of the group’s present business interests – which are currently primarily focused on clothing brands.
The Al Madani Group, which owes its origins the establishment of a tailoring house in downtown Deira more than half a century ago, has embarked on a bold expansion plan that will position the group as one of the foremost retailers in the country. Among the upcoming new ventures are the launch of its new food and beverage division and the introduction of a lingerie line. The group will also be consolidating its presence in the region with the introduction of new brands and the opening of new retail venues.
