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JUMBO REDEFINES OMNICHANNEL IN THE REGION WITH NEW ONLINE SHOPPING PORTAL

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Updated : November 25, 2014 09:30  am,Dubai
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img36Regional consumer electronics retail giant unveils www.jumbo.ae – the online extension of Jumbo’s brick-and-mortar network

Jumbo Electronics has launched its innovative online shopping portal that combines Jumbo’s definitive retail expertise in local markets with the capabilities of eCommerce and digital strategy specialists, including Build-a-Bazaar, RBBi, MENA360, and Google Inc., to offer a comprehensive OmniChannel experience to shoppers.
Jumbo’s new online store – www.jumbo.ae – promises to redefine the regional shopping experience for consumer electronics by offering a fully integrated platform that services customers online and offline, in a simple, convenient process. Besides offering genuine products from global brands, and access to Jumbo’s award-winning service centre and support, the online store also addresses the challenges faced by shoppers at pure play online stores — such as difficulty in processing returns or lack of access to customer support and human interaction.
Vishesh Bhatia, CEO at Jumbo Group, said: “For the last 40 years, Jumbo has consistently set the benchmark for consumer electronics retail in the region. We introduced organised retail into our sector here and today we are offering what is undoubtedly the first truly OmniChannel experience for consumer electronics shoppers in the region.  Our goal is to offer the same high level of products and customer service that we are known for in our stores, to our online customers as well. This move is one part of a deliberate strategy towards entering the digital space.”
Nadeem Khanzadah, Head – OmniChannel Retail, Jumbo Group, said: “We have attempted to leave no stone unturned with our integrated customer engagement strategy. Over the years, buying patterns and decision-making processes have evolved to include a mix of online and offline behaviours. There is a need to ensure that our online presence doesn’t just tick off boxes, but addresses today’s changing realities and customer expectation for an anytime, anywhere, seamless shopping experience.”
“With a little help from our friends”
Jumbo’s online shopping portal design has benefitted from state-of-the-art lab-testing facilities, such as eye-tracking for the most optimum content placement, by UI/UX performance marketing agency RBBi.
Khanzadah said: “The design team at RBBi have helped define and translate the user experience on Jumbo’s online shopping portal. This was verified and developed at first-of-its-kind user-testing labs that track eyeball movements to map the shopper journey.”
The website adopts fluid design strategy functionality, inspired by the ease of navigation at Jumbo’s retail outlets, so shoppers have a consistent experience whether they use a PC or a mobile device.
Jumbo.ae has been developed in collaboration with Build-a-Bazaar — a subsidiary of the well-known Indian eCommerce giant Infibeam, which was set up by a team of ex-Amazon employees.
Vishal Mehta, Founder & CEO of Infibeam, who worked at Amazon.com for 7 years, explained: “We have leveraged key learnings to optimise Jumbo’s portal, through our experience developing one of India’s leading online retail sites.”
Expert advice, on products and gifts
The Jumbo online shopping portal has incorporated thoughtful features such as a ‘Product Wizard’, which recommends or simply inspires shoppers to choose products for themselves or as gifts. The Wizard can be compared to an instore assistant that shows the best options across single or multiple product category preferences, based on budget, technology habits, shopper profile and interests. It also allows shoppers to compare the different products at a glance.
Delivery in a day, plus other conveniences 
Reducing the wait-time for online purchases drastically, customers on Jumbo’s online portal can receive their products the next day, for all orders made before 8pm. Currently delivering to any address in the UAE, Jumbo has partnered with MENA360, the only last mile delivery experts in the region specialising in eCommerce fulfilment.
Khanzadah added: “Through our partnership with MENA360, Jumbo will engage a dedicated delivery team that has been trained in customer-facing etiquette, to offer the most professional service for our customers. Women can also opt for deliveries by female personnel that are part of the team.”
Access to Jumbo, online and offline
Aligning its brick-and-mortar and online presence, Jumbo’s click-and-mortar network is built to facilitate the way people shop. Visitors to any Jumbo outlet can opt to purchase the product later through the online portal, saving them the trouble of returning to the store to buy the product. In cases where online shoppers cannot arrange to receive deliveries, they can use the ‘Click and Collect’ feature on www.jumbo.ae to arrange a collection from the nearest Jumbo store, where the product is made available.
Khanzadah explained: “Customer preferences can differ from one person to the other. Our aim is to make our brick-and-mortar and online services equally accessible to the customer. By integrating the delivery and collection process, we ensure that the two platforms work together and not as separate entities.”
In addition, all customers – online as well as in-store – have access to facilities such as exchanges and returns across Jumbo’s existing network of stores.
Easy payment options, including credit card on delivery
Jumbo has partnered with two of the region’s best global electronic payments facilitators, PayPal and Payfort, to offer easy and convenient payment options to customers that are particularly preferred among visitors and the floating expat population in the UAE. Not just limited to cash on delivery and online debit or credit card payments, www.jumbo.ae also offers the unique ‘credit card on delivery’ service, which is seldom offered by online retailers in this market. Jumbo has also chosen Mashreq Bank as its banking partner for the online shopping portal.
Khanzadah added: “The Jumbo delivery team for online purchases will be equipped with a mobile POS terminal provided by Mashreq bank. This makes it more convenient for customers who prefer card payments over cash, but do not wish to pay online. The payment infrastructure is all-inclusive and caters to varying shopper choices.”
Targeted engagement, through content and products
Jumbo has partnered with Google Inc. to implement search-engine optimisation, retargeting search campaigns, and to enhance display marketing and inventory management.
Khanzadah added: “We want to be able to give consumers access to products they want in a one-click approach. Our collaboration with Google will seek to help us effectively improve our cross-channel intelligence.
“The Middle East eCommerce market is expected to be valued at about US$15 billion by 2015, according to PayPal. And with consumer electronics purchases accounting for up to 23% to 28% of online shopping in the UAE across different categories, as reported by Nielsen, we believe customers will see the added value in our OmniChannel offering,” he concluded.
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Financial

CFI Partners with Saadiyat Nights as Part of Its Collaboration with DCT Abu Dhabi

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CFI

CFI Financial Group is proud to announce its official partnership with Saadiyat Nights, as part of CFI’s strategic partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi). This collaboration underscores CFI’s commitment to supporting its local community and providing its clients with unforgettable cultural and entertainment experiences in one of the world’s most dynamic destinations. 

Currently captivating audiences, the second edition of Saadiyat Nights is bringing legendary international artists, performers and fans together at the iconic open-air venue on Saadiyat Island. Running from December to February, this extraordinary series features iconic acts like Boyz II Men, Christina Aguilera, Robbie Williams, Michael Bublé, Leningrad, Ebi and Omar Khairat, with some already dazzling the stage and others eagerly awaited.

Through this collaboration, CFI will benefit from exceptional brand visibility at each event, while offering its clients premium access to performances and money-can’t-buy experiences, including exclusive Meet & Greet opportunities with some of these legendary artists.  

“Through this collaboration, CFI reinforces its brand presence and industry leadership by securing high brand visibility at each of the Saadiyat Nights events in Abu Dhabi, a key hub for culture and global connections,” said Hisham Mansour, Co-founder and Managing Director of CFI. “This partnership reflects our commitment to fostering meaningful connections, supporting cultural initiatives and providing our clients with opportunities to engage with world-class experiences that complement their journey with CFI.”

Through this partnership, CFI is proud to support Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading cultural destination in the region, while staying committed to its mission of providing traders with exceptional trading experiences and engaging with like-minded local communities.

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Hospitality

Where There Is Trade, There Is Gulfood

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Gulfood

There is only one place where the world gathers annually to witness an unparalleled F&B showcase, with products meticulously handpicked from every corner of the globe. This time, a new global chapter is unfolding in the future of food and it’s within the legacy of Gulfood that the world can anticipate a seismic impact.

The 30th edition of Gulfood, taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 17 – 21 February, will host a record 5,500+ exhibitors from 129+ countries. It will unveil new business opportunities and solve new and evolving global challenges.

Celebrating 30 Editions of Informing the Global Foodscape

For over three decades, Gulfood has been the driving force at the heart of global food commerce—igniting innovation, sparking cross-cultural collaboration and redefining the next era of global F&B. As the world experiences a sweeping transformation in food systems—powered by groundbreaking technologies, sustainability breakthroughs, and forward-thinking ideas—Gulfood 2025 will be the epicentre of this revolution. This is where the next era of food begins, and you’re invited to be at the forefront.

Event date:  17 – 21 February 2025 at Dubai World Trade Centre & registration is now live.

Why Visit?

Where The World Connects for Their F&B Sourcing Success

  • 5500+ Exhibitors: Explore 100k+ new products and innovations from a vast exhibitor showcase across eight distinct sectors.
  • 129 Countries Exhibiting: Experience global diversity with the biggest lineup of participating countries.
  • 43% New Exhibitors: Get the first look at the fresh offerings from exhibitors attending the show for the first time.
  • 24 Huge Halls: Navigate 24 massive halls filled with exhibitors, country pavilions and culinary experiences.
  • 1 Million Sq. Ft Exhibition Area: Gulfood 2025 boasts one million square feet of show floor space.
  • Network And Pre-Schedule Meetings: Establish close connections with F&B industry leaders through pre-scheduled meetings via our official event app and meetings programme.

Show Sectors

Gulfood is set to showcase the latest trends and advancements in the F&B industry, spanning seven distinct sectors: Dairy, Beverage, Fats & Oils, Pulses & Grains, Meat & Poultry, Power Brands and World Food.

Anticipate exploring products spanning these sectors at Gulfood, the ultimate platform for connecting with industry leaders, discovering state-of-the-art innovations and forging valuable partnerships in the ever-evolving F&B landscape.

Features

Food500

The summit will unite global leaders to tackle key challenges, sparking discussions, and showcasing trends, featuring top CEOs, policymakers and innovators.

From talks like Visionaries: Exploring Cutting-Edge Technologies Driving Food Tech to Pioneering Smart Agricultural Systems in the F&B Sector and more, the summit aims to drive business, inspire change and fuel global economic growth.

GULFOOD DISCOVERY TOURS

Over five days, engage in curated tours that are designed to connect you directly with the products you’re most interested in sourcing. The tours focus on diverse food categories such as Gourmet, Alternative Proteins, Ready-to-Eat, and Plant-Based.  F&B professionals, buyers and sourcing experts can gain valuable insights, access exclusive products and make informed business decisions while exploring key trends influencing global F&B.

Top Table

Top Table returns with a charismatic group of local and international chefs who are reimagining the way we create and enjoy food. With a bold focus on culinary futurism, the 2025 edition will debut new techniques, inventive flavour combinations and unconventional textures that surprise and delight audiences.

YOUTHX – YOUNG CHEF CHALLENGE

Witness a high-energy culinary competition between young hotel chefs from around the world. They will compete for a career-defining internship at some of the top restaurants and culinary schools in Europe. Gulfood’s YouthX brings together emerging culinary talent from diverse cultures, offering a global platform that unites chefs through healthy competition. They’ll be judged on futuristic techniques that set the event apart from previous editions, showcasing the next generation of global culinary leaders.

BLEND STUDIO
Celebrate the artistry of beverages with immersive masterclasses that showcase the latest trends and exclusive, never-seen-before creations crafted by industry experts. Explore the world of coffee and the trendiest crafted drinks while seizing opportunities to connect and learn from leading beverage professionals.

THE CULINARY DEBATE
Watch as global culinary icons debate the industry’s most critical challenges and exciting opportunities in the world of food. You’ll be captivated as they offer fresh perspectives on the rapidly evolving industry landscape.

THE TASTING ROOM
Experience the latest culinary creations from top brands and network with business leaders in the F&B industry. Whether you’re looking for the market’s most exciting products, new partnerships or upcoming trends, this is where opportunities come to life.

DUBAI WORLD CUISINE
Experience an exclusive four-hands dinner series that brings together celebrated international chefs and homegrown culinary talent. These unique collaborations offer a one-of-a-kind opportunity to savour bespoke menus, where local flavours and global expertise converge to create exceptional dining experiences.

GULFOOD AFTER HOURS
Explore Dubai’s vibrant food scene with Gulfood After Hours. We’ve teamed up with the city’s most iconic restaurants to give you an unforgettable culinary adventure. From casual eateries to fine dining, you’ll experience the very best Dubai has to offer, outside of the exhibition halls. Simply book, show your ticket, and enjoy exclusive offers at venues across the city.

INNOVATION AWARDS

The Gulfood Innovation Awards will celebrate brands setting a new standard for excellence in F&B. Recognising forward-thinking products that demonstrate creativity, ingenuity and impact, these prestigious awards highlight the best in the F&B industry across 10 categories.

Register today.

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Financial

MultiBank Group Secures Court Victory as Judge Declares Von Der Heydt Claims as “Fictitious” and “Untenable”

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MultiBank Group

MultiBank Group has achieved a significant courtroom victory in the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court against Von Der Heydt Invest S.A. (VDH), a Von Der Heydt Group subsidiary, which had brought claims against MultiBank FX International Corporation (MBFX), a MultiBank Group entity, and its founder, Naser Taher.

The court described the allegations brought by VDH as ‘fictitious’ and ‘untenable’, labelling VDH’s pursuit of these matters as an “abuse of process.” The court ordered VDH to cover over USD$25 million in legal costs incurred by Mr. Taher and MBFX. 

The Honorable Justice Gerhard Wallbank’s decision rejected VDH’s claims and confirmed MultiBank Group’s adherence to transparency and integrity. Naser Taher, Founder and Chairman of MultiBank Group said: ‘The accusations levied against us by Von Der Heydt have always been unfounded, and this ruling is a testament to our strong adherence to the principles of fairness and lawful conduct.’

The court confirmed that the legal campaign by VDH and its affiliates over the past four years consisted of coordinated and unfounded allegations targeting MultiBank Group. The judgment also highlighted a “conspiratorial network” involving multiple parties.

A previous ruling by the court made in early 2024 compared the relationship between the Von Der Heydt Group, to the Bernie Madoff ponzi scheme.

This decision marks an end to VDH’s pursuit of claims against the MultiBank Group and runs parallel to the financial group’s broader collapse. Von Der Heydt Bank, a 250-year-old institution and VDH’s parent company, has surrendered its banking license and ceased to exist after being placed in liquidation by its founder Dietrich Von Boetticher. The court further commented on the plight of German noteholders allegedly represented by VDH, attributing their difficulties to mismanagement at the hands of the Von Der Heydt leadership.

A prior ruling by the London High Court found Colm Smith, CEO of CSM Securities, and his company in contempt of court for not adhering to a worldwide freezing order (WFO) obtained by MultiBank Group. This contempt stems from Smith’s failure to disclose assets related to a legal dispute involving Van Der Heydt Invest SA (VDHI), where significant losses were linked to investments in notes associated with the Multibank Index. His actions have raised the possibility of imprisonment as the court continues to address allegations of unlawful collusion against MultiBank Group, which are unfolding in various European courts.

MultiBank Group’s victory in the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court further solidifies its position as a trusted leader in the financial derivatives market, operating under the oversight of 16 regulators across five continents and serving over one million clients worldwide. Naser Taher added: ‘We are delighted that the judiciary has recognised the baseless nature of these accusations and affirmed our global reputation for integrity and operational excellence. We remain steadfast in delivering the highest standards of financial services to our clients.’

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