june 21 ^th, 2010,
Dubai

Mani & Co.—one of the Middle East’s fastest growing producers of naturally nutritious fruit and nut snacks—says that expansions within its UAE operations will continue following sales growth of more than 75% during the first half of 2010. Just one year after launching its first factory in Dubai Investment Park (DIP), the company says that proximity, pricing and health conscious consumers have contributed to new expansion and contracts in the GCC.

With an expanded retail presence and a greater geographical coverage, Mani & Co.’s re-order levels within the UAE have surged across the company’s product range compared to the same period in 2009. In fact, Q1 2010 saw UAE sales grow by 77% compared to the previous quarter, with number for Q2 at least that high. While sales increased across the board, certain varieties like the ‘Yummy’ range have seen an average increase of 35% each month during 2010; the highest consistent growth of any product range since the company began its UAE operations.

“Focusing on new distribution and supply chain techniques has really opened up a lot of doors in the FMCG sector, especially when it comes to food snacks,” says Abouzar Rahmani, CEO and President of Mani & Co. “Fresh produce doesn’t have to be expensive if you’re doing smart business. Consistency is the key, especially for customers that expect high-quality, natural ingredients. We have established that reputation here in UAE, and right now it’s simply a matter of maintaining those standards as we face increasing market demand.”

Looking to the future, Mani & Co. is projecting to triple its annual growth in sales during 2010 through new partnerships within the local market and expansions throughout the GCC. The company is currently in discussions with major distributors in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia with contracts in Bahrain and Qatar near finalization.

“The UAE has been a great base for our operations in the Middle East, and we are confident that the strong economic climate in Dubai will continue to be a foundation from which we can take our products global,” added Rahmani.