Hubbry Logo
SpinneysSpinneysMain
Open search
Spinneys
Community hub
Spinneys
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Spinneys
Spinneys
from Wikipedia

Spinneys is a supermarket chain active in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Qatar, Lebanon and Oman, It began as a railway provision merchant company, and expanded to a grocery firm importing British Empire goods to Mandate Palestine.[1] The largest shareholder and manager of the brand is the Dubai based Al Bwardy Investment, founded by Ali Albwardy.

Key Information

History

[edit]
Old Logo used in the U.A.E
Spinney's Mineral Water Factory Acre, 1941

The supermarket was founded by Arthur Rawdon Spinney (CBE), who served in the Staffordshire Yeomanry.[2] and later on the staff of General Allenby,[3] In 1924, he organized a provision department for Palestine Railways in the suburbs of Alexandria.[4][5] By 1929, he was already the President of the Economic Counsel of Haifa.[6] His next move was establishing an import and shipping headquarters in Haifa. He sold imported English goods from a store on Jaffa Road through his two companies Spinney's Ltd., and Full-worth Ltd.[4]

His commercial endeavors and connections to the Palestine Commissioner led to his appointment as trustee for Haifa during World War II.[7] Spinney also served as the Hungarian Consul General in Palestine.[8] He went on to open two branches in Jerusalem, in the Greek Colony and Mamilla, which operated until 1949.[9]

Initially Spinneys branches were located in the major regional cities frequented by British subjects via the railway line: Alexandria, Cairo, Haifa, Acre where it operated the Kabri Mineral Factory[10][11] and Damascus. Since mid-1920s Haifa branch, where Spinney married Cecil Joan Glegg in 1928, and was later the President of The Haifa Rotary Club,[12] also served as agents for P&O.[13] Due to interruption to railway services,[14] on which Spinneys depended, with the start of the 1936–1939 Arab revolt in Palestine it moved its Haifa branch, from Palestine to Baghdad.

Mr Spinney joined the UK establishment when his daughter Elisabeth married John Slim, 2nd Viscount Slim in 1958 in London.

In the 1960s Rawdon Spinney retired from active participation in the managing of the stores, and died in August 1973 in Littlehampton, Sussex, where he was buried in the Crematorium.[15]

After the 14 July Revolution, its Baghdad store was relocated in 1961 to Dubai, Trucial States (now the United Arab Emirates) where it had operated since 1942 in Al Nasr Square, Deira. In later years other stores were opened across Arab states of the Persian Gulf region.[16] In 1948 the first Spinneys store in Beirut Souks was open. Also stores were opened in every IPC pumping stations on the Kirkuk, Haifa and Tripoli pipelines.

Present

[edit]

As of 2011, Spinneys Dubai LLC is a premium supermarket retailer in the Middle East owned by Emirati businessman Mr. Ali Albwardy and operates fifty-six Spinneys stores in the United Arab Emirates, some stores in Oman and plans to expand into Saudi Arabia.[17]

Spinneys will enter the Philippines as a joint-venture with Ayala Corporation, this was right after their announcement of Makro's re entrance from the same group.[18][19]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Spinneys is a multinational specializing in premium groceries, fresh produce, and household goods, founded in in , , by British Army officer Arthur Rawdon Spinney as a provision merchant for the . Initially focused on supplying high-quality fresh foods and provisions to railway passengers and local communities, the company expanded from its Egyptian origins into a network of hypermarkets and across the . The Spinneys brand has grown significantly since its inception, with key milestones including the opening of its first supermarket in the in 1962 at Al Nasr Square in , where the inaugural customer was . Spinneys 1961 Holding PLC, the publicly listed UAE-based operator which listed on the in May 2024, manages the GCC operations. As of August 2025, it operates 86 stores under the Spinneys, , and Al Fair brands across the UAE, , and , emphasizing fresh-focused retail with private labels like SpinneysFOOD and exclusive partnerships. Spinneys operates through various entities and franchises in multiple countries, including , , , , the UAE, and , offering a range of store formats from compact urban outlets to large hypermarkets. The company entered in 2024 with a flagship store in Riyadh's La Strada Yard and has since opened additional locations; it announced joint ventures for expansion into in August 2025 and the in October 2025. The chain is renowned for its commitment to quality sourcing, , and , maintaining a reputation as a leading premium retailer in the region while adapting to and online delivery services in urban centers.

History

Founding and Early Operations

Spinneys was founded in 1924 by Arthur Rawdon Spinney, a officer and Commander of the (CBE), in the suburbs of , . Initially established with £10,000 in funding from three British businessmen, the company began as a provision primarily serving the by organizing its provisioning department. Spinney, who had previously served in the Staffordshire Yeomanry and on the staff of General Allenby during , leveraged his experience to supply essential goods along rail lines in the region. The early business model centered on importing and distributing high-quality British goods, including fresh , groceries, and items, targeted at British expatriates in colonial outposts. Operations quickly expanded to branches in key cities such as , , , Acre, and , where Spinneys built a reputation for reliable access to premium imported delicacies and provisions during the and 1930s. This focus on quality and consistency catered to both expatriate communities and local elites, establishing the as a trusted supplier amid the economic and logistical demands of the British Mandate in the . The company faced significant challenges in the lead-up to and during , including disruptions from the of 1936–1939, which hampered railway-dependent imports and led to the relocation of its branch to . Post-war economic shifts in , coupled with the company's role in supplying Allied forces during the conflict, prompted a gradual transition from wholesale provisioning to direct retail operations in the late 1940s. This evolution laid the groundwork for further growth, including the adoption of a format in the 1960s.

Expansion Across the Middle East

Spinneys' transition from a merchant supplier to a dedicated retail chain commenced with its entry into Lebanon in 1948, when it opened its inaugural store in the historic Beirut Souks. This establishment represented a deliberate pivot toward fixed retail outlets, enabling direct engagement with consumers seeking imported British Empire goods amid post-World War II recovery in the Levant. The Beirut location quickly became a hub for quality provisions, setting the stage for Spinneys' broader retail evolution in the region. The company's expansion gained momentum in the Gulf with the opening of its first in , , in 1962 at Al Nasr Square in . This venture introduced the self-service model to the area, aligning with 's burgeoning and economic diversification following major oil discoveries in the late and early . By providing a convenient one-stop shop for fresh produce, groceries, and household essentials, the store catered to an emerging and local , establishing Spinneys as a pioneer in modern retail formats. In 2021, Spinneys marked the 60th anniversary of this milestone, reflecting on its foundational role in shaping consumer shopping experiences across the . Fueled by the of the and , which elevated living standards and spurred demand for Western-style groceries and premium throughout the Gulf and beyond, Spinneys pursued further regional growth in subsequent decades. This era's economic surge transformed consumer habits, prompting Spinneys to enter in 2010 and in 2005. Later expansions included in 2024, solidifying Spinneys' status as a multinational chain attuned to the evolving needs of affluent Middle Eastern markets. These strategic moves capitalized on heightened food reliance and retail modernization, driven by the long-term effects of oil-driven prosperity.

Key Milestones and Ownership Changes

Spinneys experienced significant disruptions in its Lebanese operations during the , temporarily closing all stores in 1976 amid escalating violence and instability. The chain remained dormant in the country for over two decades until its revival in 1996 under the ownership of Gray Mackenzie Retail (GMRL), which successfully relaunched the brand. This resurgence marked a pivotal recovery for Spinneys in , reestablishing it as a leading operator in the region. In the , Spinneys underwent a major ownership shift in the 2000s when it was acquired by Al Seer Group, a UAE-based consumer holdings company, enabling accelerated regional growth. Under Al Seer Group's stewardship, the retailer expanded its footprint, reaching over 100 stores across the UAE, , , and by the early , reflecting robust post-acquisition development. This period also saw Spinneys navigate economic challenges, including the global and subsequent market recoveries. The company's 100th anniversary in 2024, commemorating its founding in , highlighted its enduring legacy amid contemporary transformations. Celebrations included commitments to initiatives, such as enhanced eco-friendly sourcing and waste reduction programs, alongside substantial investments in digital retail platforms to bolster capabilities following the . These efforts underscored Spinneys' adaptation to modern consumer demands and its post-pandemic rebound, with record revenues reported in the fiscal year. In 2025, Spinneys announced joint ventures for expansion into (with , first store planned for 2026) and the (with ).

Operations and Presence

Geographic Footprint

Spinneys maintains a significant presence in the , where it operates approximately 75 stores as of September 2025, concentrated primarily in urban centers such as and to serve communities and affluent locals. The chain's operations in the UAE include dedicated online delivery hubs that support rapid fulfillment in high-density areas like , enhancing accessibility for premium grocery services. In , Spinneys has 17 branches spanning from the south to the north of the country, with a strong foothold in Beirut's urban districts tailored to diverse demographics including expatriates. This presence traces back to the company's entry into in 1948, though current operations focus on modern retail formats in key cities. The company has a growing footprint in , with several stores opened post-2020, including locations in and as of November 2025, targeting affluent urban consumers in these major cities. Spinneys also maintains operations in with five stores in urban areas, alongside a limited presence in , and has revived its activities in , where a separate entity runs over 30 branches concentrated in cities like and . Overall, Spinneys' geographic emphasizes premium retail in Middle Eastern urban hubs, with 87 stores across the UAE, , and combined as of September 2025. Recent expansions include entry into with two stores in November 2025, a for with the first store planned for 2026, and a partnership for the .

Store Formats and Retail Strategy

Spinneys operates a variety of store formats designed to meet diverse customer needs, from convenience shopping to bulk purchases, across its primary markets in the UAE, , and . These include market stores under 10,750 square feet, typically integrated into high-rise residential buildings to serve urban communities; medium supermarkets spanning 10,750 to 21,500 square feet, focused on everyday grocery needs in neighborhood settings; and large supermarkets exceeding 21,500 square feet, which serve as hypermarkets providing expansive spaces for comprehensive bulk shopping and a wide product assortment. Express stores offer quick, convenience-oriented access for on-the-go purchases, while specialized formats like The Kitchen by Spinneys function as standalone foodhalls emphasizing fresh, prepared meals in high-traffic locations such as malls. In total, these formats support approximately 87 stores regionally as of September 2025. In Lebanon, where operations are managed separately, Spinneys utilizes a broader portfolio of formats to address varied market segments, including premium Signature by Spinneys stores for upscale shopping experiences, discount-focused Happy outlets for value-driven customers, Grab'n Go convenience stores for rapid transactions, and franchised Monoprix locations offering French-inspired retail. This multi-format approach allows Spinneys to capture different consumer behaviors in a competitive landscape. The company's retail strategy centers on a premium positioning for fresh foods, which account for over 65% of sales as of , balanced by competitive pricing on staples through cost absorption in the and offerings priced at least 10% below branded equivalents. Loyalty initiatives, such as the Spinneys Plus program, provide personalized rewards and points accumulation to foster and repeat visits. integration, active since the via mobile apps and online platforms, has evolved into a robust omni-channel system, highlighted by the launch of Spinneys Swift for delivery within 60 minutes, representing 21% of own-platform sales and covering 66% of target areas as of , with continued growth in online sales reported in 2025. Adaptations to local preferences underscore Spinneys' market responsiveness, with all Gulf stores maintaining halal certifications for meats and relevant products to align with regional Islamic standards, and dedicated organic sections integrated across every location to promote wellness and under the "Eat Well, Live Well" initiative. These elements, influenced by ownership under the Al Seer Group, enable tailored experiences for affluent expatriates and local residents alike.

Subsidiaries

SubsidiaryPlaceActivityOwnership
Spinneys Dubai LLCDubaiSupermarket & General Trading100%
Spinneys Fresh Food Industries LLCDubaiMeat & Poultry Products Manufacturing100%
Spinneys Factories For Bakery Products LLCDubaiBakery Products Manufacturing100%
Spinneys Shj. LTD. CO. LLC.SPSharjahSupermarket & General Trading100%
Spinneys Shopping Center LLCDubaiShopping Center (Mall)100%
Fine Fare Food Market LLCDubaiSupermarket & General Trading100%
Waitrose Shopping Center LLCDubaiShopping Center (Mall)100%
Spinneys IP LimitedAbu Dhabi Global MarketSpecial purpose vehicle100%
Al-Ma’kulat Al-Fakhirah for Food ProductsKingdom of Saudi ArabiaSupermarkets50%
Al Fair SPCSultanate of OmanSupermarkets100%
Centurio Holdings LTDBritish Virgin IslandsInvestment Holding Company100%
Finefair Food Market Services LimitedBritish Virgin IslandsInvestment Holding Company100%
Spinneys Sourcing PTY LTDAustraliawholesale of foodstuff and consumer products100%
Spinneys Sourcing LimitedUnited Kingdomexport of foodstuffs & non-food products100%
Spinneys Sourcing LimitedUnited States of Americapurchase of goods for export and all related activities100%

Products and Services

Core Offerings

Spinneys provides a diverse centered on high-quality fresh and products, including fresh such as fruits and , groceries, snacks, drinks, toiletries, household chemicals, frozen foods, in-house items like breads and pastries, dairy selections featuring , yogurt, and cheeses, meats through dedicated butchery services offering premium cuts of halal-certified , , and , and imported items from and . This fresh-focused assortment accounts for 63.3% of the company's total retail revenues as of 2024, underscoring its commitment to premium, everyday essentials and specialty foods. The retailer prioritizes quality sourcing practices, partnering with local UAE farms through a dedicated "farmers' club" involving approximately 10 growers on annual contracts to supply a significant portion of its fresh produce, ensuring freshness and support for regional agriculture. For specialty goods, Spinneys collaborates with global suppliers, importing items like French cheeses from regions such as Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. These partnerships enable access to international gourmet products, such as European delicacies and Asian fine foods, while maintaining rigorous standards for halal certification and quality control. To align with cultural events, Spinneys runs seasonal promotions in its Gulf stores, notably during Ramadan, featuring specials on dates, iftar kits, and meal components for suhoor and iftar, including honey, spices, soups, and protein-rich dishes like lamb preparations. These offerings cater to festive needs, enhancing accessibility to traditional items like stuffed dates and electrolyte drinks tailored for the holy month.

Private Label and Sustainability Efforts

Spinneys operates its primary under the SpinneysFOOD , which encompasses a range of high-quality food products designed to offer fresh, nutrient-rich alternatives that align with the retailer's premium positioning. This own- lineup includes staples such as spices, bakery items, and specialty , emphasizing affordability while maintaining standards comparable to national brands. In 2025, Spinneys launched 'Discovery by Spinneys,' a new premium range. sales constitute 43.3% of Spinneys' total retail revenues as of 2024, reflecting strong consumer preference for these cost-effective premium options. The retailer has integrated into its strategy through initiatives like increasing recycled content in to at least 25% by 2030 and enhancing nutritional profiles in SpinneysFOOD items. For instance, Spinneys became the first UAE retailer to transition to recycled (rPET) for products in 2023, in partnership with Al Bayader International, resulting in a 20% reduction in CO2 emissions and an annual decrease of six metric tonnes in the company's emissions. Spinneys' broader sustainability efforts are outlined in its Better Together 2030 strategy, launched in 2024, which focuses on four pillars: Eat Well Live Well, Sourcing for the Future, , and Inspired People Stronger Together. Under the pillar, the company commits to achieving to across operations by 2040 and halving from a 2019 baseline by 2030, in alignment with UN . Plastic reduction measures include the elimination of single-use carrier bags in and stores starting in 2022, ahead of local regulations, which has prevented 484 tonnes of plastic annually. Additionally, Spinneys aims for net zero operational emissions by 2040, supporting low-carbon and sustainable supply chains in the UAE through partnerships that reduce environmental impact. Community engagement forms a key component of these efforts, with programs emphasizing food security and local sourcing. In Lebanon, Spinneys has distributed 10,000 donation boxes containing essential food items to families in need in 2020, in collaboration with local media and NGOs like MTV Lebanon. The retailer supports local agriculture by partnering with farmers in Lebanon to promote sustainable practices and reduce food miles, while in Oman, it collaborates with domestic suppliers to bolster the local economy and integrate Omani produce into its supply chain. The Farm to Table educational program further advances these goals by teaching UAE students about nutrition, food production, and environmental stewardship, aiming to reach one million participants by 2030.

Corporate Structure

Ownership and Governance

Spinneys 1961 Holding plc, the entity overseeing operations in the UAE, , and , is majority-owned by Al Seer Group LLC, which holds 76.90% of the company's shares as of February 2025. This ownership structure reflects the company's listing on the following its 2024 . In , Spinneys is controlled by Gray Mackenzie Retail (GMRL), a local entity focused on retail operations in the region. Saudi Arabian operations function under a with Abdul Mohsen Al Hokair Holding Group, enabling localized expansion while adhering to kingdom-specific regulations. In August 2025, Spinneys entered into a with to expand into . The governance framework is led by CEO Sunil Kumar, who has served in the role since August 2019 and brings extensive experience in retail management across the GCC. The , comprising non-executive and independent members, provides strategic oversight and includes key figures such as Chairman Ali Saeed Juma Al Bwardy. Specialized committees, including the and the Nomination and Remuneration Committee, ensure compliance with standards outlined by the and Securities and Commodities Authority. Ethical sourcing is prioritized through the company's Sustainable Sourcing Policy Framework, which emphasizes supplier evaluations for environmental, social, and governance criteria, with full implementation targeted by 2025. Operations across the GCC comply with regional retail laws, including those governing , labor standards, and under the framework. Financially, Spinneys 1961 Holding reported trailing twelve-month revenue of AED 3.52 billion (approximately USD 959 million) as of September 2025, driven by store expansions and online growth. Regionally, including Lebanese operations, annual exceeds USD 1 billion, supported by transparent public filings on the that detail performance metrics and strategic initiatives. This structure underscores the company's commitment to accountability and sustainable growth in a competitive retail landscape.

Workforce and Community Engagement

Spinneys employs a across its operations in the , with a focus on fostering an inclusive environment that reflects the region's multicultural fabric. The company maintains an enterprise-wide gender diversity ratio of 25% female employees, with ongoing efforts to promote equality through internal promotions and opportunities. In the UAE, Spinneys has increased its of nationals to 14% of the skilled in 2024, up from 10.83% the previous year, supporting localization initiatives. programs are central to employee development, with 76% of the participating in 58,000 hours of learning in 2024, including mandatory inductions on the and at least 40 hours annually per employee covering , , and professional skills. Diversity initiatives emphasize hiring from varied ethnic backgrounds to serve multicultural markets, tracking opportunities by and to ensure equitable access. In operations like those in the UAE and , Spinneys promotes an inclusive culture that values diverse perspectives, contributing to low attrition rates of 13.4% among full-time staff and high employee tenure, with 22% having over 10 years of service. Beyond internal policies, Spinneys engages deeply with local communities through targeted partnerships and programs. In , the company collaborates with environmental NGOs during events like the annual Green Festival, involving over 400 students from various schools to promote on and conservation through workshops and activities. In , following the opening of its first store in in 2024, Spinneys has partnered with local health organizations to support community well-being initiatives aligned with national goals like Vision 2030. Annual charity drives, such as the Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge, engage thousands of participants and raise significant funds—for instance, AED 2.17 million in 2024—for causes including health support through donations to organizations like the Al Jalila Foundation. These efforts extend to food redistribution, with 74 stores donating surplus daily to charities, briefly tying into broader donations that aid .

References

Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.