Alosra Supermarket has unveiled a multi-layered resilience strategy to safeguard Bahrain’s food supply, addressing concerns over regional maritime disruptions and rising logistics costs.
In a comprehensive interview with the GDN, Ayachi Jomaa, head of Alosra and Artisan, detailed the retailer’s shift towards diversified transport corridors and increased buffer stocks to maintain “business as usual” for consumers.
With six premium locations across the kingdom and eight ‘Alosra On The Go’ convenience stores at Bapco Energies service stations, the retailer has established itself as a trusted destination. Its contemporary café concept, Artisan, also continues to expand, offering curated fresh fare in modern settings.
Responding to increased scrutiny of regional maritime routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, Mr Jomaa confirmed that Alosra has successfully pivoted its logistics framework.
“We’ve secured alternative logistics routes and are using a combination of sea freight, land transport through Saudi Arabia, and air freight, when needed, to keep goods moving,” Mr Jomaa said. “Our teams are monitoring shipments daily and adjusting routes where necessary.”
To complement the government’s six-month strategic reserve, Alosra has significantly increased its own “safety stock” for non-perishables and essential items. Warehouse teams are working extended hours to manage higher inventory levels for water, rice, grains, and dairy, effectively hedging against potential shipping delays.
On the critical issue of rising operational expenses due to insurance surcharges and rerouting, Mr Jomaa noted that the retailer is prioritising price stability.
“While logistics costs globally have increased, we are doing everything possible to absorb those pressures internally. Our focus is to keep prices fair for customers,” he added.
The retailer’s ‘Think Local’ initiative has also transitioned from a sustainability goal to a vital strategic buffer. By deepening partnerships with Bahraini farms and producers, Alosra has mitigated the shocks associated with international supply chains.
“By working closely with Bahraini farms and local producers, we can bring fresh products to stores quickly while also strengthening Bahrain’s food security,” Mr Jomaa explained, noting the programme is now essential for reducing reliance on sensitive international shipping lanes.
Addressing the psychological urge for ‘panic buying’ during periods of regional tension, Mr Jomaa reassured shoppers that demand is being monitored in real-time to prevent empty shelves.
“Our message to customers is simple: there is sufficient supply, and shopping normally helps ensure that products remain available for everyone,” he stated.
He emphasised that the retailer remains in ‘close co-ordination’ with the Industry and Commerce Ministry to ensure stable access to food remains a national priority.
“Alosra has always been part of the community, and during times like these, that responsibility matters even more,” Mr Jomaa concluded.
The GDN reported earlier this week that alternative shipping routes – by air, sea and land – have been activated to ensure that Bahrain’s food needs are met.
Logistics operators have begun utilising airports and seaports in Saudi Arabia as alternative gateways, Bahrain Chamber transport and logistics committee chairman Jassim Al Mousawi had said.
Containers are being transported via the Red Sea and then moved overland to Gulf countries.
The King Fahad Causeway is also operating around the clock to facilitate truck movement and accelerate the arrival of supplies, further reinforcing supply chain stability across the region.
avinash@gdnmedia.bh
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