How SPAR is empowering youth in Oman

From one store in 2014 to over 24 SPAR supermarkets across Oman today, the journey of multi-generational family business Khimji Ramdas Group has been focused on empowering the community while remaining committed to environmental good.

“Our aim is to expand not only for us but also for the community and to particularly empower youth. We are in the process of sub-franchising the SPAR brand to young aspiring Omanis who want to become entrepreneurs and have their own businesses,” shared Kanan Khimji, Director, Khimji Ramdas Group.

Youth empowerment

SPAR Oman has made a significantly big move to support young local entrepreneurs through sub-franchising. The ‘Build, Operate and Transfer’ model provides an opportunity for aspiring business owners to enter the retail sector with the support and guidance of SPAR Oman. From setting up the store, aligned with the brand’s global standards and guidelines, to providing comprehensive training to the entrepreneur on all aspects of store operations to managing the store network, SPAR Oman supports them in every possible manner. Once the entrepreneur has gained sufficient experience and confidence to run a store, SPAR Oman transfers the operations to them.

Another change that Khimji has pushed internally is prioritising women-led SMEs in the Group’s supply chain ecosystem to encourage entrepreneurship and drive employment.

Climate action

SPAR Oman has proactively responded to the ministerial decision on banning single-use plastics. As such, SPAR Oman encourages shoppers to adopt eco-friendly habits by distributing recyclable bags to customers who make purchases above a certain bill value. The initiative focuses on promoting a habit change among shoppers. In addition to distributing recyclable bags, SPAR Oman goes a step further by offering alternative bags that are not made of plastic and can be reused. By providing customers with more sustainable bag options, SPAR Oman encourages them to choose environmentally friendly alternatives.

ESG priorities

Looking ahead, SPAR OMAN will focus on the following ESG-centric priorities.

Sustainable sourcing: SPAR Oman prioritises sustainable sourcing practices to ensure that the products they sell are ethically and responsibly produced. This includes sourcing from suppliers who adhere to fair trade practices, use sustainable farming methods and prioritise social and environmental responsibility.

Waste reduction and recycling: SPAR Oman has initiated steps to minimise waste generation and promote recycling. This will involve implementing strategies to reduce food waste and offering higher shelf-life products to shoppers. The brand also encourages customers to bring their own reusable bags and provide convenient recycling options within their stores for packaging materials such as plastic, paper and glass.

Energy efficiency and greening: SPAR Oman prioritises energy efficiency measures to reduce its carbon footprint. This includes implementing energy-efficient lighting systems, optimising HVAC [heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems] and investing in equipment which are certified in energy saving.