Jashanmal Group: A Legacy of Reliability Empowering the International Retail Sector
“Legacy is not what I did for myself. It’s what I’m doing for the next generation,” said Brazilian mixed martial artist Vitor Belfort. This sentiment resonates deeply with Rao Sahib Jashanmal, who’s founding of the Jashanmal Group in 1919 laid the groundwork for a global enterprise known for reliability and excellence.
Over a century since its inception, Jashanmal Group has become a leading name in the retail sector, offering an extensive range of products and creating job opportunities across multiple countries. The group’s retail operations now encompass over 150 stores across the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, and India, with a distribution network that reaches more than 1,000 outlets.
Under the leadership of CEO Khaled Soliman, Jashanmal Group has harnessed a robust proprietary logistics network, encompassing freight forwarding, warehousing, and both regional and international supply chains. The group has also established itself as an equity partner in several regional joint ventures.
“Our innovative philosophy of transforming relationships into partnerships is at the heart of our new value creation strategy,” says Khaled. “We are working closely with international business partners in the premium and luxury sectors to build brands in the GCC region through our extensive retail operations and distribution network.”
A Diverse Product Range Impacting the Industry
Jashanmal Group offers a diverse portfolio of premium and high-quality products, including home appliances, luggage, beauty products, books, and fashion items. Recent shifts in consumer behavior, especially during the pandemic, have highlighted a growing focus on self-care and health. This trend has increased demand for home appliances that support well-being, showcasing the group’s ability to adapt to evolving market needs.
Embracing Modern Technologies
The retail industry is undergoing significant transformation due to advancements in AI, Big Data, and Machine Learning. These technologies are revolutionizing inventory planning, supply chain management, and customer data management. By leveraging Big Data and AI, Jashanmal Group can create more accurate demand forecasting models, mine granular insights, and enhance CRM strategies with personalized offers and promotions.
“As these technologies mature, their integration will become essential rather than optional. Retailers not adopting these advancements risk losing market share,” Khaled notes. He anticipates increased personalization in product assortments, promotions, and customer experiences. The pandemic has accelerated these changes, emphasizing the importance of technologies in supply chain management, reducing time and material spillovers with more accurate forecasting.
Navigating the Challenges of the Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought numerous challenges, requiring businesses to adapt swiftly. Jashanmal Group has responded by optimizing its cost structure and embracing remote operations, which has become the new norm. The pandemic has also accelerated the growth of e-commerce, contactless purchases, and digital payment platforms, areas where Jashanmal Group has demonstrated increased agility and confidence.
The safety of employees remains a top priority. The company adheres to the highest occupational health and safety standards, including regular office disinfection, social distancing measures, and flexible work-from-home options.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
For those looking to enter the retail sector, Khaled advises, “The retail space is dynamic and constantly evolving. Understanding your business and having a long-term vision is crucial. Test your product portfolio in the market before committing to any retail space investment, as maintaining retail spaces can be financially demanding.”
Future Outlook and Scaling Operations
As Jashanmal Group approaches a new phase of expansion and innovation, Khaled emphasizes the importance of digital transformation. “We live in a data-driven world that demands digital dexterity and customer-first innovation. Shifting an entire culture towards long-term digital transformation is challenging but necessary.”
The company is focused on making its operations lean, efficient, and technology-oriented. Jashanmal Group has also launched its e-commerce platform during the pandemic, which has already contributed 3-4% of the turnover in less than a year.
About the Leader
Since joining Jashanmal Group, Khaled Soliman’s vision has been to modernize the organization and align it with the demands of the digital age. His strategic initiatives have transformed the company, enhancing both in-store and online shopping experiences. Khaled’s leadership has propelled Jashanmal Group to new heights, demonstrating his commitment to innovation and excellence in the retail sector.