Royal Furniture is eager to extend its footprint in the GCC region and plans to open 20 additional stores to meet the rising customer demand, according to a top executive. Sulin Sugathan, President and Director of Retail at Royal Furniture, highlighted the company's strategic focus on selecting suitable store locations. "To effectively launch 20 new stores across the UAE, we are concentrating on strategic planning and precise execution. This includes pinpointing prime locations that match our target market and ensuring each store embodies our brand's quality and design standards," Sugathan explained in an interview.
Sulin Sugathan, a forward-thinking leader and the President/Director of Retail at Royal Furniture, has under his guidance, led the company to impressive growth, quadrupling its revenue. His steadfastness, resolve, and technology-focused strategies have cemented Royal Furniture's status as a leading regional retailer, setting a strong foundation for future success.
In the interview, Sugathan discussed how his background in Computer Engineering has shaped his leadership and technology integration at Royal Furniture. His technical expertise has bolstered problem-solving abilities, enabling effective challenge resolution. This foundation has also facilitated the adoption of advanced automation solutions, enhancing operational efficiency and upgrading ERP systems to maintain a competitive advantage in data management, inventory control, and customer service.
Royal Furniture has introduced several technological innovations, including a Management Information System (MIS) with a graphical interface, which has revolutionized data management. Additionally, digital marketing and e-commerce platform expansions have significantly improved customer engagement and shopping convenience. These technological advancements have not only streamlined operations but also enhanced service delivery and customer experience, positioning Royal Furniture competitively in the retail market.
The expansion into the GCC region is fueled by Royal Furniture's strong manufacturing capabilities and market diversification strategies. The company plans to tackle challenges in opening 20 new stores in the UAE by investing in local talent, optimizing supply chain logistics, and leveraging existing networks. This approach, combined with strategic planning and manufacturing strength, ensures the company's confidence in overcoming challenges and achieving successful regional expansion.
Under Sugathan's leadership, Royal Furniture has experienced significant growth, including a fourfold increase in turnover. Key strategies included assembling a skilled team, implementing automation, conducting thorough market research, and refining processes across all operations. The introduction of a new concept store in Jurf Ajman exemplifies the company's commitment to innovative design and technology, offering an immersive shopping experience that reflects its dedication to exceptional customer service.
Sugathan envisions the future of retail in the GCC region as a blend of digital and physical experiences, driven by technology. He anticipates increased use of AI, data analytics, AR, and VR to personalize shopping, optimize operations, and enhance customer interactions. In a region with high tech adoption and growing consumer expectations, embracing these technologies will be vital for retail competitiveness.
Personally motivated by innovation and impact, Sugathan stays inspired through continuous learning and industry engagement. His professional drive stems from leading a dynamic team and guiding Royal Furniture towards new successes. Reflecting on his journey, Sugathan emphasizes the importance of adaptability, team building, and maintaining a clear vision while being flexible with strategies.
