"Bahrain Retail Report Q2 2015" Published

Despite being the smallest country in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) by t he size of its area, population and economy, Bahrain retains its potential in the retail sector. Bahrainis are among the most affluent people in the world and the country benefits from its close relations to Saudi Arabia. Similar to Qatar and Kuwait, Bahrain has not yet been tremendously affected by the slump in oil prices as the economy diversifies with the growth of construction, hospitality and upscale retail sectors.

Unemployment in Bahrain remains relatively high, the ruling al-Khalifa family holds a tight grip on the country's resources and the nation remains divided over Bahrain's governance. Compared to the United Arab Emirates, Qatar or Saudi Arabia, the country has a noticeably under-saturated retail market, including only several mass grocery retail (MGR) chains and shopping centres. Nevertheless, the retail sector has been undergoing a massive change in recent years as household spending has been growing and peaking at a 15.4% rate in 2013. BMI expects that the growth will continue for the whole forecast period averaging at more than 7.5% annually.

Full Report Details at
- http://www.fastmr.com/prod/956841_bahrain_retail_report_q2_2015.aspx?afid=301

The growing optimism of retailers has been noticeable in the second half of 2014 and the beginning of 2015, with real estate firms recording increased demand for retail space. Retail has outperformed other real estate sectors in recent quarters as a result of growing consumer confidence. On the other hand, retailers are also enjoying the improving environment for investment in Bahrain. The country's government has clearly formulated its vision of becoming one of the Gulf's hubs, a 'boutique destination' for high-end retail, including fashion, household goods and automobiles. Moreover, Bahrain has significant architectural heritage, which - together with the offshore preservation site - will facilitate tourism into the country. In September 2014, Bahrain relaxed it visa procedures allowing the citizens of more...

The Bahrain Retail Report has been researched at source and features Business Monitor International (BMI)'s independent assessment and forecasts for the retail sector. The report examines key drivers of retail sales growth and future prospects, including consumer spending and private sector investment.

BMI's Bahrain Retail Report also examines the level of development and potential for growth of the retail sector, the commercial initiatives of major players, changing consumer demographics that influence demand and the regulatory environment. Key sub-sectors include mass grocery retail, autos, over-the-counter pharmaceuticals, computers and consumer electronics.

Key Benefits

* Benchmark BMI's independent retail industry forecasts for Bahrain to test other views - a key input for successful budgeting and strategic business planning in the Bahraini retail market.

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