Best of British in store

A SUPERB selection of British products are being showcased during a special celebration across all Lulu Hypermarkets in the kingdom this week.

The British Week festivities were inaugurated by ambassador Simon Martin at the recently-opened Atrium Mall branch with a cake and ribbon-cutting ceremony and a stunning performance by members of the Royal Marine Band’s Corps of Drums.

The hypermarket was decorated in the colours of the Union Jack and replicas of famous British monuments, including Tower Bridge, and models of London’s traditional red double-decker buses were also on display.

Flashback three years ago and Simon and his wife, Sophie, were particularly thrilled that their start in the kingdom coincided with the 200th anniversary of relations between Bahrain and the UK, and one of their first duties was to attend a British brand launch at Lulu hypermarket in Hidd.

Last year they were back on the British beat for a similar inauguration at the retail giant’s Juffair branch … but Sunday’s celebration in Saar proved even more spectacular under the theme of ‘Truly British, Truly Delicious’.

“This year we have more than 6,500 products on sale here in Lulu and right across the island. There are two things in particular, I like to think, why people particularly appreciate British produce and that’s quality and originality,” he said. “We’re also very lucky that many Bahrainis know the UK well and, of course, we have a vibrant British expat community living here and they’re able to buy brands they are familiar with and trust.”

In between meat pies, cheese and cakes, the ambassador was in celebratory mood and happy to play before the media cameras, lifting a hefty cheese like a weight above his head.

Stuart Furlonger, Lulu Bahrain’s regional operations manager, was close at hand describing the rich array of British products on display.

In addition some of the finest British treats, from a range of juices, a wide selection of British cheeses, organic milk, meat, fish, chocolates and other products, including popular detergents and home-cleaning products, have been specially imported as part of the promotion.

Britvic lime cordial proudly displayed ‘by appointment to HM The Queen’ on its label and newcomers to the shelves included Delamere Goat’s Cheese and Graham’s Cottage Cheese. Queues were also formed around the cooked meal selections such as Lancashire Hot Pot, Fish ‘n’ Chips and Bangers & Mash.

“We are delighted to showcase the best of Britain at this festival,” said Lulu Group director Juzer Rupawala. “Besides special promotions on British products, Lulu Hypermarket will turn a tasty spotlight on British food and cheeses and food and drink from the UK.

“Join us and enjoy the best of all things British – food, home-ware and beauty products at special prices.”

As reported in GulfWeekly, the chairman of Lulu Group, Yusuff Ali MA, was bestowed with a British royal accolade for his contribution towards boosting international trade. It has its own logistics and warehousing facility in Birmingham.

Lord Lieutenant John Crabtree, HM The Queen’s special representative, handed over the award to him during a glittering ceremony. Later in the day she hosted a royal reception for the Queen’s Award recipients at Buckingham Palace.

The Lord Lieutenant said Lulu Group has helped open up a huge market for British products worldwide through its operations. Y International (UK) Ltd operates as a subsidiary of Lulu Group International and sources and exports a wide range of products to all its hypermarkets and supermarkets, including the seven popular stores in Bahrain.

Meanwhile, the Royal Marine Band’s Corps of Drums has engagements across the kingdom this week and will be performing at the embassy tonight at a special party to mark the Queen’s birthday. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will turn 93 on Sunday, the day the Lulu promotion concludes.