Alshaya posts strong 2025 performance, retail growth seen in 2026: CEO

John Hadden, CEO of Alshaya Group

John Hadden, CEO of Alshaya Group, said the company delivered a strong performance in 2025, expressing satisfaction with business results and customer satisfaction levels.
 

Speaking to Argaam on the sidelines of the RLC Global Forum, Hadden said the group launched several new brands over the past year, including Primark, Ulta Beauty, and Chipotle, in addition to expanding a number of existing brands across Saudi Arabia and the 18 countries in which the group operates.
 

He added that 2025 was a positive year and expects 2026 to see even better performance, driven by the continued expansion of the group’s operations across various markets.
 

Commenting on the outlook for the retail sector, Hadden said the sector is heading toward growth, supported by rising consumer demand for new brands and diversified products.
 

He explained that improving macroeconomic indicators and GDP growth are enhancing expansion opportunities, not only in the Saudi market but across the wider region.
 

Regarding the impact of foreign online retail platforms such as SHEIN and Temu, Hadden said these platforms have seen strong growth in the region in recent years to create an uneven competitive environment compared to traditional retailers.
 

He pointed out that Alshaya invests within Saudi Arabia, employs Saudi nationals, leases retail stores, builds warehouses, and complies with regulatory requirements related to product registration and imports, while these platforms do not face similar obligations.
 

Revenues generated from sales on these platforms are transferred outside the Kingdom, whereas the group’s investments remain in the Saudi market, supporting the local business ecosystem.
 

Hadden emphasized that competition is positive but must be fair and balanced, serving the national economy and supporting the employment of Saudi talent in the retail sector.
 

He warned that the continuation of the current situation could negatively affect the growth of the local retail sector and employment opportunities, underscoring the need for a fair competitive environment that supports economic development.