Dubai Groceries to get a new, unified look

Following the initiative taken by Abu Dhabi, almost 3,000 groceries in Dubai are set for a makeover by 2018.

The Department of Economic Development (DED) is introducing new standards as part of its efforts to improve the quality of services available to the public in Dubai, particularly in the retail sector.

As a part of these standards, Dubai groceries have to achieve a unified and consistent look, both in the exterior and interior.

Although the new standards will be effective from the second half of 2016, groceries currently operating in Dubai will have time until the second half of 2018 to ensure full compliance with the new standards.

New rules for Dubai Groceries

The new criteria cover various basic and operational requirements, including unification of logo and business identity; colour scheme; signage; exterior finish; interior (fixtures and display units); storage area, as well as fittings and lighting.

The operational requirements should comply with the standards of the Health and General Safety Department of Dubai Municipality with regard to the design of the store, product display and classification, training, storage, health and personal hygiene, smoking, and prohibited pets.

The Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority (ADFCA) launched a similar initiative in 2012. More than 1,000 grocery stores in Abu Dhabi and the city’s outskirts were refurbished by January 2013 as per the new food safety and hygiene standards. Stores that failed to implement the new standards by the December 31, 2012 deadline were closed down.

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