GO Sport megastore at Mall of the Emirates confirmed as largest GO Sport store in the world
Store to have dedicated cycling, running, and climbing zones to create the ultimate experience
10 metre volcano-shaped in-store climbing unit expected to be a 'big hit' once the store opens
Dubai - Go Sport have confirmed its new store at Mall of the Emirates will be its biggest in the world, a spokesperson for the French company's Middle East franchise, Al Mana Group has confirmed.
The megastore will be the company's fifth outlet in the United Arab Emirates, complete with the department store's popular range of high quality sporting equipment. There will also be a series of special zones that will be dedicated to helping customers of all levels to find, feel, and live their passions for sport.
Among the list of hands-on features will be cycling and running areas, and a colossal 10-metre tall volcano-shaped climbing unit that will aim to compliment the ultimate sports retail experience created in store.
"When it comes to combing retail with sport few retail destinations in the region can rival the appeal of Mall of the Emirates. You only have to look at how popular Ski Dubai has become and how much of an integral part of people's mall experience it is," said Andrew Fairall, General Manager of Al Mana Fashion Group.
"While the GO Sport store will be very unique, we wanted to create a similar retail space, a place that goes beyond retail. We want a place where people can come and discover or rediscover their favourite sports."
"In this regard, the climbing unit is a fantastic addition and we expect it to be a big hit with customers. It has been designed with all ages and levels of ability in mind. The hollow volcano shape will appeal to younger ages, while climbing holds on the inside and outside will mix things up a little in terms of user experience."
The opening of the store is scheduled for early November and follows the successful launch of the first GO Sport store in Saudi Arabia after Al Mana Group acquired the licence for the retail chain in the Kingdom.
"As two of the most influential economies in the world, we are delighted to strengthen our presence in both UAE and Saudi Arabia. The growing retail markets in both of these countries and the region's evolution as a modern sporting hub were big factors in our decision to expand the GO Sport portfolio," said Fairall.
Despite his openness, Fairall remained tight-lipped regarding more specific details about the store launch.
"We want to keep the launch a surprise for now," he said.
About Al Mana Group
Al Mana is one of the largest and most diversified groups in the region, operating over 55 companies in 8 countries and employing over 3500 personnel. Industry activities include automotive distribution and services, real estate and investments, retail, F&B, engineering, technology, media and entertainment. The group covers most areas of retail including luxury goods, beauty, fashion, home interiors, watches and jewellery. Operating over 300 outlets, Al Mana represents some of the largest and most successful brands in the world. The group is owned and operated by Hisham Saleh Al Mana, Kamal Saleh Al Mana and Wissam Saleh Al Mana, sons of the late Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana, in their capacity as executive directors.
About GO Sport
Al Mana Fashion Group, the master franchisee for GO Sport, has established the brand in the Middle East as one of the world's leading premium multi-brand sports stores, offering a range of apparel, equipment and accessories for a variety of sports and activities. Globally, GO Sport Groupe has established a total of 334 GO Sport and sports shoe retailing subsidiary Courir stores, including a marquee store at Dubai Mall. It has become a popular choice for its 3 million active customers. Established in France in 1978, the group is majority-owned by retail food, e-commerce and sporting goods holding-company Rallye. In 2014, the group reported annual turnover of US$700 million, and prioritised global expansion through franchising. GO Sport Groupe currently employs 4,300 staff.
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Joshua Jireh
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© Press Release 2015
