Lulu Group Expands to Odisha: A New Era of Economic Growth 

By Rupashree Mohanty

Bhubaneswar, Feb. 22: In a groundbreaking development, Lulu Group, the Middle East’s leading retail and shopping mall operator, is set to expand its sourcing operations to Odisha, India. This strategic move was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed with the Odisha-based Highland Group at Gulfood 2025, the world’s largest food trade show in Dubai. 

The MOU was signed by Saleem VI, COO of Lulu Group, and Pratik Jena, MD of Highland Group, in the presence of several distinguished leaders, including Yusuffali MA, Chairman of Lulu Group; Saifee Rupawala (CEO); Salim MA (Global Director); and V. Nandakumar (Director of Global Marketing). From Highland Group, Rabindra Kumar Jena (Chairman) and Anil Kumar (Director, Business Development) graced the event, marking the beginning of a promising partnership. 

Expanding Horizons in Odisha 

With 257 hypermarkets and supermarkets across the Middle East, Lulu Group serves over **650,000 shoppers daily** and generates an annual turnover exceeding **$8 billion**. Operating food sourcing offices in **23 countries worldwide**, Lulu Group’s foray into Odisha is a testament to the state’s potential as a sourcing hub. 

As part of the MOU, a high-level delegation from Lulu Group is set to visit Odisha as early as Monday to explore sourcing opportunities and assess local production facilities. Speaking at the event, Yusuffali MA, Chairman of Lulu Group, stated: 

 “We see immense potential in Odisha for sourcing high-quality fruits, vegetables, rice, and seafood for our stores across the region and in India. Our team will be visiting the state to gain firsthand insights into the opportunities, and we will commence sourcing operations immediately.” 

Beyond sourcing, Lulu Group is keen on establishing world-class shopping malls and hypermarkets in Odisha, signaling a strategic expansion in India. This move is anticipated to create significant employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the region. 

A Game-Changer for Odisha’s Agri Sector 

This partnership is expected to be particularly beneficial for Odisha’s agricultural sector, creating new markets for local farmers and boosting the agri-economy. **Rabindra Jena, Chairman of Highland Group, expressed his excitement about the collaboration, stating: 

 “We are very honored and excited with this partnership with a global brand. We are fully committed to working closely with Lulu Group to explore all possible avenues of collaboration and bring in a new era of economic growth and prosperity to Odisha, especially to the agri sector.”* 

Strategic Impact and Future Prospects 

Lulu Group’s strategic entry into Odisha aligns with its broader vision of strengthening its supply chain and expanding its footprint in India. The sourcing of high-quality fruits, vegetables, rice, and seafood from Odisha not only ensures a consistent supply for Lulu’s vast network of stores but also promotes the state’s rich agricultural heritage on a global platform. 

This collaboration is poised to enhance trade ties between the Middle East and Odisha, fostering bilateral growth and setting a benchmark for international trade partnerships. Additionally, Lulu Group’s plan to develop shopping malls and hypermarkets is set to redefine the retail landscape in Odisha, offering world-class shopping experiences to consumers. 

A Win-Win Collaboration 

The Lulu Group-Highland Group partnership symbolizes a win-win collaboration, promoting Odisha’s agricultural products globally while expanding Lulu Group’s sourcing network. With the backing of visionary leaders like Yusuffali MA and Rabindra Jena, this alliance is expected to unlock new avenues of growth, employment, and prosperity for Odisha. 

As Odisha gears up to welcome the high-level delegation from Lulu Group next week, the state stands on the brink of a transformative economic journey, propelled by global trade and strategic investments. 

This partnership not only reinforces Odisha’s position on the global sourcing map but also marks the beginning of a new chapter in the state’s economic narrative.