Lulu opens 61st Saudi hypermarket in Riyadh

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Hassan Muejab Al-Huwaizi and Mohammed Abdulrahman Aba Hussain inaugurated LuLu’s 61st hypermarket in presence of Yusuff Ali M.A.
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Updated 08 July 2024
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Lulu opens 61st Saudi hypermarket in Riyadh

Lulu’s highly anticipated loyalty program, “Happiness,” was launched on the occasion. This program rewards LuLu’s customers by allowing them to earn points on all purchases made at the hypermarket.

Retail major LuLu Group further expanded its presence in the Kingdom by unveiling its latest destination at Laban Square, Dhahrat Laban, Riyadh.

Hassan Muejab Al-Huwaizi, chairman of the Federation of Saudi Chambers, and Mohammed Abdulrahman Aba Hussain, deputy of integrated investors services — Ministry of Investment, officially inaugurated LuLu’s 61st Saudi hypermarket in the presence of Yusuff Ali M.A., chairman and managing director of LuLu Group, and other dignitaries. These included Ashraf Ali M.A., executive director, LuLu Group; Shehim Mohammed, director of LuLu Group Saudi Arabia; Hatim Mustansir, contractor, regional director — central province; and other officials.

The hypermarket, spread over 69,000 square feet in the popular Laban Square, features all the favorite shopping amenities that have made LuLu the fastest-growing retail chain across the Kingdom. It is a well-stocked supermarket with the choicest selection of ingredients from across the world, fresh food in the Hot Foods section, bakery items, electronics, household goods, and much more.

Ali said: “LuLu Group is delighted to add yet another landmark to the landscape of the beautiful city of Riyadh and this opening aligns with the group’s commitment to continuing expansion and reaffirms our confidence in the progress of Saudi Arabia.”
“As part of the expansion plan, our aim is to have 100 hypermarkets in the next two to three years and we are on track to open around 10 new hypermarkets by this year, including in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah. We are proud to be part of Saudi Arabia’s overall development and will continue to support sustainable development strategies, thanks to the Kingdom’s wise leadership,” added Ali.

“We have also focused on promoting and providing local employment opportunities, which have been critical to our success, through a structured recruitment process that aims to provide necessary training and skill enhancement opportunities to the local workforce.

“At present, we employ over 4,000 Saudi nationals in all the hypermarkets across the country in various positions, out of which 1,500 are women. Our aim is to encourage more youth to join our workforce, thereby ensuring greater economic participation.” 
Al-Huwaizi and Ali also launched Lulu’s highly anticipated loyalty program, “Happiness.” This program rewards LuLu’s customers by allowing them to earn points on all purchases made at the hypermarket. Participants in the “Happiness” program will enjoy exclusive offers and the opportunity to earn cash back points in specific categories.

The program also provides additional benefits such as the doubling of points, enabling customers to accumulate rewards more quickly. The loyalty program is now open for registration.


HONOR announces official availability of HONOR 200 Series

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Updated 28 July 2024
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HONOR announces official availability of HONOR 200 Series

After a hugely successful pre-order phase, global technology brand HONOR is pleased to announce the availability of the new HONOR 200 Series.
This marks the launch of two revolutionary new phones – the genre-defining HONOR 200 Pro and the artistic HONOR 200.
Both the HONOR 200 Pro and the HONOR 200 take portrait photography on smartphones to new heights, and harness the power of AI to produce stunning pro-grade photographs with exceptional results.
Through a unique collaboration with the renowned Studio Harcourt, HONOR’s expertise and cutting-edge AI capabilities allows users to capture the most incredible portrait photographs ever seen on a smartphone.
With a host of other AI-powered features, outstanding battery life, and competitive performance, the HONOR 200 Pro and HONOR 200 deliver a smartphone experience that is above any other.
 Powering the HONOR 200 Pro is the industry-defining Snapdragon 8s Gen3 AI Chipset, which offers incredible performance across a range of everyday tasks. From streaming media to intense gaming sessions, users will experience flagship performance with a smooth and highly responsive interface.
Knowing how important battery life is to users, the HONOR 200 Pro is equipped with a superior 5200mAh silicon-carbon battery that offers up to 61 hours of music streaming on a single charge. To further extend battery life, the HONOR 200 Pro uses AI to detect low periods of inactivity and enters a standby mode that saves precious battery life.
When the time comes to recharge, the HONOR 200 Pro can be fully recharged in 41 minutes, thanks to powerful 100W Wired HONOR SuperCharge. A 66W Wireless HONOR SuperCharge also allows users to top up their battery at any time, ready to take on even the most demanding games and apps without running low on battery life. Featuring a zero-risk AI eye comfort display, 3840Hz risk-free PWM Dimming technology, which eliminates flickering and reduces eye fatigue, the HONOR 200 uses advanced methods to reduce screen flickering and eye strain for users. To protect the user’s sleep, the device features HONOR’s AI circadian night display, which intelligently adjusts the screen’s color temperature to match the time of day.
Adaptive Dimming also intelligently adjusts screen brightness in all lighting conditions, ensuring the most comfortable viewing experience under any circumstance.
Showcasing an elegant design inspired by nature, the HONOR 200 Pro is available for purchase in three color ways: ocean cyan, moonlight white, and black at an exciting price of SR2,699.
Upon purchase, consumers will get free gifts worth SR816 including HONOR CHOICE watch, HONOR care+ including 12-months screen protection service for one time, 12-month back cover protection service for one time and 30-day device replacement warranty
HONOR 200 is available in moonlight white, emerald green, and black. The (12GB+512GB) version is available at a price of SR1,999 and (12GB+256GB) version is available at a price of SR1,699. Upon purchase, consumers will get free gifts worth SR499 including HONOR choice earbuds and 12-month screen protection service
for one time.
HONOR 200 Pro and HONOR 200 are available for purchase at HONOR Online Store, HONOR Experience Store, Jarir Bookstore, Extra, STC, Amazon, Lulu, Noon and other stores.

 


stc shares semi-annual financial report

Olayan bin Mohammed Alwetaid, stc group’s CEO
Updated 28 July 2024
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stc shares semi-annual financial report

  • Net profit for the six-month period of 2024 reached to SR6,590m with an increase of 7.73 percent as compared to the comparable period last year

stc recently shared company’s preliminary financial results for the first half of 2024.
Revenues for the six-month period of 2024 reached SR38,255m with an increase of 4.79 percent as compared to the comparable period last year. The growth of revenues was mainly attributed to the increase in stc KSA’s revenues by 0.6 percent driven by an increase in commercial unit revenues by 6.0 percent, carriers and wholesale unit revenues by 0.2 percent. Furthermore, stc’s subsidiaries revenues also increased by 13.4 percent.
 Gross profit for the six-month period of 2024 reached to SR18,957m with an increase of 3.88 percent as compared to the comparable period last year. Earnings before interest, taxes, zakat, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) for the six months period of 2024 reached to SR12,889m with an increase of 5.96 percent as compared to the comparable period last year.
Net profit for the six-month period of 2024 reached to SR6,590m with an increase of 7.73 percent as compared to the comparable period last year.
 stc distributes SR0.40 per share for the second quarter of 2024, in accordance with the dividends distribution policy approved by General Assembly.
 Commenting on the results, Olayan bin Mohammed Alwetaid, stc group’s CEO, commended the efforts made by the group through its various sectors and subsidiaries in strengthening the group’s position in a competitive market, which were achieved due to the group’s commitment to achieving its “Dare 2.0” strategy, resulting in a strong financial performance during the first six months of this year.
The comprehensive cost efficiency program adopted by the group also played a prominent role in improving profit margins through enhanced operational efficiency and cost control, which strengthened the company’s financial position and its ability to seize available opportunities and continue investing in the digital infrastructure, which will cement stc group’s position as the leading digital enabler in the Kingdom.
The group’s CEO also praised the efforts made by the Kingdom to provide the best services and facilities for pilgrims and improve their experience during the Hajj season.
The group’s commitment to utilizing its technical expertise has ensured the comfort and safety of the pilgrims. This included providing high-speed internet access for 1.8 million stc network users in the holy sites, as well as a 65 percent increase in voice call volume compared to the previous Hajj season.

 
 

 


Zain KSA launches recycling campaign in collaboration with Ertiqa

(Twitter @ZainKSA)
Updated 28 July 2024
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Zain KSA launches recycling campaign in collaboration with Ertiqa

As part of its corporate sustainability strategy and echoing its commitment to environmental preservation in the Kingdom, Zain KSA has signed a strategic partnership with the nonprofit organization Ertiqa to roll out the second phase of its e-waste management and recycling campaign.  Through this partnership, Zain KSA and Ertiqa will boost investment in the electronic waste management industry by recycling over 5,000 electronic devices. This initiative targets reduced carbon emissions and increased economic efficiency, aligning with the Saudi Vision 2030’s goals.

At Zain KSA, our strategy focuses on reducing our carbon footprint by implementing global best practices, says Eman Abdullah Al-Saidi, VP of corporate communications, Zain KSA

 Eman Abdullah Al-Saidi, VP of corporate communications at Zain KSA, said: “At Zain KSA, our strategy focuses on reducing our carbon footprint by implementing global best practices. This supports national efforts to achieve nationwide sustainability and aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to cut carbon emissions by over 278 million tonnes annually by 2030 and reach zero emissions by 2060. Through our strategic partnership with Ertiqa, we aim to promote the recycling of electronic devices by reconditioning and redistributing them to organizations for reuse. This initiative supports the circular economy and raises environmental awareness, fostering a culture of sustainability and resource conservation. It reflects our commitment to contributing to national sustainability efforts and aligns with our participation in initiatives supporting the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.”
Omar Khalid Al-Shaibani, executive director at Ertiqa, said: “Our organization is dedicated to partnering with the private sector to advance the circular economy, promote sustainability, reduce pollution, and attract local and global investments into the recycling industry.”

Collaborating with Zain KSA,  a leading telecom and digital services provider, is crucial to this mission. Recycling telecom electronic waste not only boosts sustainability but also offers significant business opportunities through the export of recycled products to international markets.”

Zain KSA has reached a global milestone by launching the world’s first zero-carbon 5G network at The Red Sea.

 


New NIVEA product ‘Luminous630’ targets uneven skin tone in Saudi Arabia

Updated 25 July 2024
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New NIVEA product ‘Luminous630’ targets uneven skin tone in Saudi Arabia

Global skincare leader NIVEA celebrated the launch of its revolutionary Body Luminous630 Even Skin Tone range in Saudi Arabia. This innovative product empowers Saudi women to embrace their radiant confidence by addressing a common concern — uneven skin tone and stretch marks.

The launch event took place on July 8 in Riyadh. It brought together a gathering of celebrated beauty insiders, influencers like Lojain Omran and Noha Nabil, celebrities, and international entertainment acts. The NIVEA team kicked off the event by sharing their brand heritage and future vision, culminating in the much-anticipated reveal of the NIVEA Body Luminous630 Even Skin Tone range.

Guests were welcomed into a vibrant pre-function area filled with interactive activities and captivating mirror art installations, setting the stage for a truly unique experience. Renowned DJ and violinist Andre Soueid took the stage after that, electrifying the ambiance even further. Guests also enjoyed a live stream screening of the “Boulevard Takeover,” capturing the launch’s real-time excitement.

A thought-provoking discussion panel followed, featuring a lively exchange between skincare expert Dr. Yasmin El-Masri and media personality Suha Nowailaty. Dr. El-Masri, a renowned dermatologist, shared valuable skincare insights, while Nowailaty brought her deep understanding of the multifaceted lives of Saudi women. The speakers engaged in a dynamic conversation about the importance of feeling confident in your skin and explored the latest trends and approaches to achieving an even skin tone. Through partnerships with influential figures like these, NIVEA continues to inspire and nurture the growing confidence of Saudi women.

“We are thrilled to introduce the NIVEA Body Luminous630 range to the Saudi Arabian market,” said Alia Lotfy, head of marketing at NIVEA MENA. “Uneven skin tone is a common concern for many people in the region, and this range offers a powerful and effective way to achieve a radiant, even-looking complexion.”

Following a decade of research, NIVEA developed the patented Luminous630 enzyme. This breakthrough ingredient regulates melanin production and reduces the visibility of dark spots, making it the world’s most effective solution for even skin tone. The NIVEA Body Luminous630 Even Skin Tone range, available in oil serum and cream formats, offers a clinically proven solution for achieving a visibly even skin tone and stretch marks reduction.


SAB, HSBC forge strategic partnership to drive financial innovation in the Kingdom

Updated 24 July 2024
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SAB, HSBC forge strategic partnership to drive financial innovation in the Kingdom

Saudi Awwal Bank, a leading bank in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with HSBC, one of the world’s largest banking and financial services organizations, to strengthen their collaboration to accelerate financial innovation.

This strategic alliance comes as Saudi Arabia aspires to become a hub for financial innovation through Vision 2030. 

The signing ceremony took place in London, further solidifying the strong partnership between the two banks.

Tony Cripps, managing director and CEO at SAB said: “Our customers’ evolving needs in this rapidly changing, technology-driven era require us to innovate and introduce cutting-edge solutions continuously. As the Kingdom’s leading international bank, we are thrilled to leverage HSBC’s significant scale, capabilities, and expertise to bring the next generation of banking services to Saudi Arabia.”

Stephen Moss, chief executive officer, HSBC Middle East, North Africa and Turkiye and board member of SAB, echoed the sentiment: “For over 70 years, HSBC and SAB have worked together to develop leading banking services in Saudi Arabia. This MoU expands our support of SAB, providing access to HSBC’s expertise in leading-edge and innovative solutions for the benefit of customers.”

The MoU aligns with “SAB’s” growth strategy, which is focused on accelerating the pace and scale of Innovation. 

It also affirms SAB’s continued commitment to supporting Vision 2030 and the associated key initiatives under the Financial Sector Development Plan to transform the Kingdom into a leading financial technology and innovation hub.

The partnership also aims to strengthen SAB’s leading position in the banking sector as the bank continues to cater to its customers’ evolving needs.

SAB recently received accreditation as an innovation organization by the Global Innovation Institute “GInI” becoming the first bank in the Kingdom to be certified by GInI.  

SAB was also awarded the Global Banking Innovation Award for Small and Medium Enterprises by the Digital Banker.