The UAE-based Sharaf Group has acquired a Master Franchise with Japanese automotive accessories retailer Yellow Hat, which will see the group develop a UAE network of stores under the brand.

'We plan to launch the first Yellow Hat outlet in Dubai by April 2007 and the showroom will be located within our own upcoming shopping mall scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2007,' says Sharaf Group Vice Chairman Sharafuddin Sharaf. 'Besides, the Sharaf Group also aims to open the Yellow Hat flagship store in Dubai within a year after the opening of the first store. As a long term objective, we intend to unveil at least five stores in UAE within a span of five years which includes stores at the petrol stations as well.'

Sharaf Group Managing Director Yousuf H. Sharaf adds: 'The Yellow Hat concept and offerings are very much needed here and will offer the car owners high level of services, wide range of products and accessories, and all under one roof with international quality.'

Yellow Hat President Koichiro Kagiyama reflects: 'The Middle East is emerging as a very important market and has a huge potential for mid and high-end auto accessories. To begin the Middle East operations, I am very delighted to have partnered with Sharaf Group in UAE and with their support and enthusiasm I am quite sure that our business will grow manifolds in no time.'

Published: 5 March 2007

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