Abo Moati sees high competition in stationery market, targets growth: Chairman

Saad Abdullah Abo Moati, Chairman of Abdullah Saad Mohammed Abu Moati Co.

Saad Abdullah Abo Moati, Chairman of Abdullah Saad Mohammed Abo Moati for Bookstores Co., said the stationery and office supplies retail market is heavily influenced by customer purchasing power, salary payment timings, and intense competition.

It is also impacted by higher import costs, shipping, currency exchange rates, rents, and wages, he added.

In a phone interview with Argaam, the Chairman said the company is working to lower expenses, secure better import prices, and reduce product margins to grow its market share in the Saudi stationery market.

The company’s Q1 2025/26 net profit rose due to an 18% annual increase in sales, mainly from wholesale operations. It also earns rental income from properties used as showrooms and warehouses, part of which are leased out.

Abo Moati said a seasonal shift in school schedules impacts sales and profits from quarter to quarter.

The company runs 13 wholesale branches nationwide and 13 retail outlets under “I-Home” and “Mini Good.” While some retail stores closed due to high costs, others have been revamped with diversified and high-quality products.

The Chairman said the company already has nationwide coverage but remains open to targeted expansion when needed. Qualitative expansion remains on developing products and meeting market demand.

As of June 30, 2025, the company’s loans totaled SAR 66 million. He affirmed the company’s commitment to strong results next quarter.

According to data available with Argaam, the company’s Q1 2025/26 profit surged 179% to SAR 5.5 million, compared to SAR 2 million a year earlier.