Premium fresh food retailer Spinneys has announced its entry into the Kuwaiti market through a joint venture with Alshaya Group, a leading brand franchise operator in the region.
The move marks the firm’s expansion into its fourth GCC market, reinforcing its strategy to broaden its footprint across the Middle East.
Under the agreement, Spinneys will hold a 51% majority stake and will oversee the operation and management of all stores under the new partnership. The first store is expected to open in 2026, with plans for a rollout of 10 outlets across Kuwait in the initial phase.
Spinneys: A Strategic Market Entry
“Kuwait is a high-potential market and presents strong growth opportunities for us,” said Sunil Kumar, CEO of Spinneys.
“This is a significant milestone in our strategy to bring Spinneys’ premium fresh food offering to more customers. The opening of our first store in 2026 paves the way for a long and successful presence in the Kuwaiti market.”
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The retailer, known for its emphasis on quality and premium fresh produce, already operates across the UAE, Oman, and Saudi Arabia. Its Kuwait launch strengthens its regional presence at a time when demand for upscale retail food experiences is on the rise.
Why Kuwait?
With some of the highest per-capita disposable incomes in the GCC, Kuwait offers a strong retail opportunity for premium players. The country’s position as the fourth-largest economy in the region adds to its appeal for international and regional brands.
“Kuwait is a dynamic market with a strong appetite for premium offerings, and we believe Spinneys’ proven brand and operational excellence will resonate strongly with local consumers,” said John Hadden, CEO of Alshaya Group.
The entry into Kuwait reflects Spinneys’ broader ambition to become a leading brand of choice in the Middle East’s competitive retail sector. With the backing of Alshaya Group — which manages some of the world’s biggest retail names in the region — Spinneys is positioning itself to serve the Kuwaiti market with the same premium experience it has cultivated elsewhere.
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