UAE retail conglomerate Gulf Marketing Group (GMG) has opened a corporate office in Singapore, planning to open 100 new stores by 2025 as part of its expansion strategy in Southeast Asia. 

The company said it aims to increase its workforce by more than 40 per cent by the end of the current fiscal year. Following the launch of the retailer’s flagship brand Sun & Sand Sports (SSS) in Singapore earlier this year, GMG eyes rolling out 11 SSS stores across the region in the next 36 months. 

“The region is currently experiencing rapid growth, driven by its young demographics, increasing spending power, and digitally savvy consumers,” said Carl Masterman, president of sports at GMG. 

“The new office will serve as a hub for GMG’s operations in Southeast Asia, facilitating strategic initiatives and collaborations in the region.” 

Entering Southeast Asia in 2020 through the acquisition of Royal Sporting House, GMG currently has 31 retail stores in the region,16 stores of which are under operation in Singapore. Last year, the group acquired Nike-only retail stores in Singapore and Malaysia from Singapore-based distribution company SUTL Corporation. 

Earlier this year, GMG signed a 10-year franchise agreement with British fashion company JD Sports, under which it will open about 50 JD Sports stores by 2028.