Latest news with #MostTrustedBrandAward


Muscat Daily
19-03-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Al Zain Farm: Raising the bar in Oman's poultry industry
By OUR CORRESPONDENT Muscat – Al Zain Farm LLC has established itself as a leading and trusted name in Oman's poultry industry. Known for its commitment to quality, safety, and innovation, Al Zain recently won Oman's Most Trusted Brand Award in the Poultry Products (Chicken) category. In this exclusive interview, Shabbir Boriyawala, Chairman of Al Zain Farm LLC, shared insights into the company's journey, the core values that define its success, and the unique factors that set it apart from competitors. He discussed Al Zain's rigorous quality and safety standards, and strategic expansion beyond poultry into other premium food products. Boriyawala also outlined Al Zain's vision for future growth and expansion in Oman and the wider GCC region. Can you share the journey of Al Zain Farm LLC and its evolution into one of the most trusted poultry brands in Oman? Al Zain Farm LLC has grown from a humble poultry operation into one of Oman's most trusted and recognised poultry brands. With over ten years of experience in the industry, we have consistently focused on producing high-quality, fresh, and nutritious chicken for Omani consumers. Our commitment to excellence, coupled with state-of-the-art farming practices, has enabled us to earn the trust of households, businesses, and institutions across the country. Being recognised as Oman's Most Trusted Brand in the Chicken Category is a testament to our dedication to quality and consumer satisfaction. What core values and principles have been pivotal in shaping Al Zain's reputation for quality and reliability? Our brand is built on a foundation of integrity, quality, and sustainability. We prioritise the health and well-being of our birds, ensuring they are raised in highly controlled, bio-secure environments. We also maintain strict quality control measures at every stage of production, from hatchery to processing. Al Zain proudly holds HACCP, ISO 22000, and Halal certifications, which reflect our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of food safety, hygiene, and ethical production. These certifications reinforce our promise to deliver only the best-quality poultry to our consumers. What sets Al Zain apart from other poultry producers in Oman, and how does the brand maintain its competitive edge? What sets Al Zain apart from other poultry producers in Oman is our unique focus on freshness, taste, and nutrition. Unlike imported poultry, our products are delivered fresh daily, ensuring superior quality. Additionally, Al Zain is the only producer of tender chicken in Oman, offering an exceptionally juicy and flavourful product that is unmatched in the market. Our strict biosecurity protocols and advanced production facilities further strengthen our position as an industry leader. How does Al Zain maintain the highest standards of quality and safety in its poultry products, and how important is consumer feedback in ensuring this trust? Quality and food safety are non-negotiable at Al Zain. We adhere to internationally recognised quality and safety standards, ensuring that every product meets stringent hygiene and freshness criteria. Our HACCP and ISO 22000 certifications reflect our unwavering commitment to food safety management and risk control. Consumer feedback plays a crucial role in our operations, allowing us to continuously improve and innovate based on evolving customer preferences and market demands. Can you highlight some recent innovations or new products that Al Zain has introduced to stay ahead of consumer trends in the poultry industry? Al Zain is committed to staying ahead of consumer trends through continuous innovation. Recently, we introduced whole frozen tender chicken, catering to different customer needs. Beyond poultry, Al Zain has expanded into premium-quality food products to meet the evolving needs of consumers. We now offer finest sourced French fries and a diverse potato range, ensuring premium taste and quality. We also offer a variety of frozen vegetables, carefully selected to retain maximum freshness and nutrients. Our upcoming dairy offerings will include pure ghee, butter, and margarine, which will soon be available to provide consumers with high-quality cooking essentials. This strategic expansion allows Al Zain to broaden its product portfolio while maintaining the same high standards of quality and trust that consumers expect from our brand. How does Al Zain connect with its customers to ensure brand loyalty and satisfaction with every product? We believe in building strong relationships with our consumers. In addition to engaging with customers through social media platforms, retail activations, and direct interactions, Al Zain has established Al Zain Food Express outlets. These outlets serve as experience centers where customers can taste our products, explore our range of offerings, and enjoy freshly prepared poultry-based meals. This direct engagement allows us to receive valuable consumer feedback while reinforcing brand trust and loyalty. How does Al Zain approach sustainability, particularly in terms of animal welfare and its environmental impact? Sustainability is at the core of our operations. Al Zain follows ethical poultry farming practices, ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare. We are also committed to reducing our environmental footprint and have taken a major step towards sustainability by installing a 3.5MW solar power plant at our facilities. This initiative significantly reduces our reliance on conventional energy sources, promoting a cleaner and greener environment. Additionally, we actively contribute to the local economy by creating jobs and supporting community initiatives. What exciting developments can we expect from Al Zain in the coming years, and how do you plan to expand your presence beyond Oman? Al Zain is actively working on expanding its presence beyond Oman. We are exploring regional markets while maintaining our strong foothold in the local poultry industry. Our goal is to continue innovating and diversifying our product range to meet the evolving needs of modern consumers. Furthermore, Al Zain aspires to become a leader in the food industry, not just in Oman but across the entire GCC region. What is Al Zain's long-term vision, and how does it align with broader trends in Oman's food and agriculture sector, especially as the brand continues to lead in the poultry market? Our long-term vision aligns with Oman's food security and agricultural sustainability goals. As we continue to lead the poultry market, we remain committed to investing in cutting-edge technologies, expanding production capacities, and enhancing our product portfolio. We aim to be a benchmark for quality and trust in the region's food industry, ensuring that Al Zain remains the first choice for consumers across the GCC.


Muscat Daily
01-03-2025
- Automotive
- Muscat Daily
Mercedes-Benz: Leading Oman's luxury market with trust and innovation
Muscat – For the eighth consecutive year, Mercedes-Benz Oman has secured the title of Oman's Most Trusted Brand in the Automotive (Luxury) Category. This recognition reaffirms Mercedes-Benz's strong presence and deep-rooted legacy in the Omani market. In this interview with Muscat Daily , Shaun Michael, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Oman, shares insights into the key factors behind this achievement, the brand's approach to customer satisfaction, and how evolving consumer preferences are shaping the luxury automotive market in Oman. He also discusses Mercedes-Benz's latest technological advancements, the growing demand for electric vehicles, and the brand's alignment with global and local sustainability goals. Mercedes-Benz has again won Oman's Most Trusted Brand Award in the luxury automotive category for the eighth year in a row. In your view, what are the key factors that have contributed to Mercedes-Benz's ability to retain its most trusted brand status in Oman for eight years? The combination of brand strength and cutting-edge technology made us successful from the start. For more than 130 years, we have built products for the world's most demanding customers. Mercedes-Benz has become one of the most trusted luxury automotive brands by consistently delivering on its promises of quality, safety, luxury, and innovation. This trust is further solidified by our long-standing heritage in Oman, dating back to the 1970s, and our unwavering commitment to providing an exceptional customer experience. From meticulously designed vehicles to unmatched aftersales service, every touchpoint reflects the brand's dedication to excellence. Our relationships with our customers span generations, making Mercedes-Benz a family tradition for many in Oman. How does Mercedes-Benz measure customer satisfaction, and how does it act on this data to improve the ownership experience? What role does customer feedback play in shaping the services offered by Mercedes-Benz in Oman? We believe that every customer is an individual and that we will only be successful with our customers on top of our minds. We listen carefully to them and offer an outstanding, exclusive and appealing experience across all touchpoints. Customer satisfaction is measured through surveys, direct feedback, and digital engagement platforms such as StarView, which provides transparent health check videos to customers. This data allows us to identify areas of improvement and implement targeted strategies to enhance the ownership experience. We value every minute of our customers' time and design our services with their evolving expectations in mind. Our seamless online-to-offline service journey offers customers tools for vehicle selection, improves workshop turnaround times and delivers overall ease in interacting with the brand. Customer feedback is not just a consideration; it is the cornerstone of our service innovation. How would you evaluate the performance of Mercedes-Benz Oman in 2024, particularly in terms of models, sales, and brand recognition? Mercedes-Benz Oman experienced steady growth in 2024, influenced by the successful launches of models such as the E-Class and the GLC Coupé. Our sales performance reflected customer confidence, and we continued to lead the luxury segment, further strengthening brand recognition. Innovations in design, performance, and electrification have been instrumental in maintaining our strong position in Oman. This also aligns with the brand's global strategy and ambition to ensure profitable and resilient growth, focusing on the segments that promise high and stable returns across Top-End and Core Luxury. Do you see any notable changes in consumer preferences in Oman, particularly when it comes to luxury vehicles, and how has Mercedes-Benz adapted to these shifts? Luxury car buyers in Oman are increasingly prioritising sustainability, advanced technology, and personalisation in addition to traditional attributes like quality and performance. Matching our decerning customers' expectations in Oman, Mercedes-Benz offers sustainable mobility solutions across its luxury segments, including top-end luxury, core luxury, and entry luxury. This includes the introduction of electrified EQ models, which represent the pinnacle of luxury and sustainability that resonate with local customers. Going beyond electrification, Mercedes-Benz continues integrating cutting-edge tech, such as MBUX digital features, and enhancing customisation options to meet the individual preferences of our customers in Oman. Mercedes-Benz is known for cutting-edge technology and innovation. Could you share some of the key technological advancements or features that have been particularly well-received by customers in Oman in recent years? The MBUX infotainment system, augmented reality navigation, and advanced driver assistance systems have been well-received in Oman. MBUX redefines the relationship between driver and vehicle, offering a wealth of intuitive features and intelligent functionalities. Additionally, features such as Energizing Comfort, which tailors cabin ambience to enhance driving pleasure, resonate strongly with our customer base. Recognising that every driver is unique, and MBUX offer a personalised experience that adapts to individual preferences and driving habits. Mercedes-Benz ensures that every journey is tailored to the driver's comfort and enjoyment by merging luxury and technology seamlessly. Mercedes-Benz has been making significant strides in the electric vehicle (EV) market, with a clear ambition to go fully electric by 2030. How is the brand approaching the electric mobility transition, and what role will EVs play in Mercedes-Benz Oman's future portfolio? The transition to electric mobility is central to Mercedes-Benz's global vision. The focus isn't just on sustainable products: the brand takes a holistic approach to sustainability. The goal is to become net carbon-neutral across the entire value chain by 2039. Net carbon neutrality means that carbon emissions that are not avoided or reduced at Mercedes-Benz are compensated for by certified offsetting projects. In Oman, our strategy includes offering the entire portfolio of electric models from the EQA to the G 580, supported by customer education about the benefits of EVs and collaborations to expand charging infrastructure. This approach ensures a smooth transition while supporting the Oman Vision 2040 goals and its commitment to achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.


Muscat Daily
19-02-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
OMTB 2024 - The tradition of trust enters eighth year
Business captains of 52 esteemed brands in Oman converged at the Ballroom of Shangri La Barr al Jissah Muscat on February 17 to receive the coveted trophy of Oman's Most Trusted Brand Awards (OMTB 2024) – a symbol of consumer trust as well as a testimony of their commitment to quality and service excellence The overall mood was of jubilance… the sentiments among invitees conveyed confidence… and the 'take home' for all present was a set of explicit tips on good branding practices delivered by none other than H H Sayyid Dr Faris bin Turki al Said, Member of the Technical Team for Oman's Promotional Identity, the ultimate voice in Oman on 'branding and consumer behaviour'. Top management and business heads of esteemed brands in Oman came together in the Ballroom of Shangri La Barr al Jissah Muscat on Monday evening to cheer and honour the best brands in Oman which have scored high on quality and service excellence during 2024. The eighth edition of Oman's Most Trusted Brand Awards (OMTB 2024), hosted by Apex Media (publishers of Muscat Daily), saw winning brands across 52 categories bag the coveted trophy in a glittering function that celebrated the winning virtues that top brands have cherished and fostered in the sultanate over the years. The event was held under the patronage of H H Sayyid Dr Faris, the chief guest, who shared valuable insights about good branding practices relevant to Oman and later presented the awards to representatives of the winning brands. The top brands were voted as Oman's Most Trusted Brands by consumers who participated in an online survey preceding the event. More than one million votes were polled as consumer interest in the survey took to new heights this year, expressing their loyalty and expectation for continuing the 'Tradition of Trust' through this awards event – OMTB 2024. Welcoming the guests at the outset, Executive Chairman of Apex Media and Editor in Chief of Muscat Daily, Saleh Zakwani congratulated the representatives of all brands for earning the trust of consumers in Oman and for their dedication in maintaining high quality of products as well as service excellence. 'Trust is not something a brand can buy – it has to be earned. Our experience over the past eight years proves that winning Oman's Most Trusted Brand Award (OMTB 2024) is a badge of honour, a mark of excellence, and a symbol of consumer confidence. The brands we celebrate tonight have not only delivered quality and reliability but have also built lasting relationships with the consumers they serve. We are proud to celebrate your success…let the brands speak for themselves,' he said. H H Sayyid Faris, who delivered the keynote address, enlightened those present about the essential elements that make a good brand as well as the role and responsibilities of those brands in maintaining the trust of consumers. He congratulated the top brands for their endeavours in upholding consumer interests and pointed out that they were, indeed, ambassadors, not just for their respective brands, but also for Oman and what it stands for. 'You are ambassadors… When you brand yourself, it's not just about putting logos and celebrating Ramadan or National Day, it's about living and breathing Oman in every decision you make. You enhance tourism – a lot of you may not be in tourism, but what you do as successful brands, you enhance tourism by making it tangible. 'Remember that restaurant you went to in that country, that bottle of fizzy drink you had, that toy you bought for your child or that chocolate you bought from that country – that's the tangible aspect of tourism, and that's what you do as successful brands. You keep those memories locked in people and people love brands, they breathe brands, they eat brands, and do everything with brands. So, once you get awarded today for being successful in Oman, think of yourselves as ambassadors. And people who seek successful brands in a nation, want to work in that nation,' Sayyid Faris emphasised. He further pointed out, that Oman's values are generally traditional but if one considers the landscape today, the sultanate has expanded its vision and its horizons, especially in the last five years under the direction of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, and 'you are the ambassadors who carry the Omani flag everywhere.' Sayyid Faris then presented the awards to the winning brands in 52 categories amid loud cheers and applause from the distinguished guests present. The winners of the eighth edition of Oman's Most Trusted Brand Awards (OMTB 2024), who treasured their prestigious trophies, were all unanimous in their resolve to maintain this 'tradition of trust' with consumers. Some of the winning brands have been securing the top position for several years consecutively which indicated their unflinching commitment to consumers. Senior representatives of the winning brands expressed their gratitude towards Apex Media for creating and maintaining a platform wherein brand superiority can be celebrated, year after year. The awards, coming from consumers, were a sure acknowledgment that they were doing things right, they said, adding that the award was a sure motivation to continue winning the trust of consumers. Oman's Most Trusted Brand Awards (OMTB 2024) are based on the results of a month-long extensive survey which was open to general public for voting. In each passing year, Oman's Most Trusted Brand Awards has grown in terms of both attracting votes and number of categories. This year the survey attracted over one million votes across the different categories, indicating its significant growth as well as popularity among businesses and consumers. OMTB 2024 awards were set up by Apex Media in 2016 to recognise and honour those brands in Oman that have lived up to the expectations of consumers and set parameters for others in the fray to follow suit. It has now become a red-letter day in the corporate calendar. Donatella Donatelli, Head of Marketing and Communication, Mercedes-Benz Oman Mercedes-Benz has gained the trust of customers because it keeps delivering on its promise of luxury, quality, safety and innovation. Exceptional products, from Top-end to Entry luxury vehicles, are a testament of the brand's commitment to excellence. It's an honour to win the Oman's Most Trusted Brand Award in the luxury automotive category for the seventh consecutive year and we are fully committed to consistently deliver an exceptional customer journey throughout all touchpoints in the years to come Shabbir Boryawala, Chairman, Al Zain Farms This award is an honour for both, myself and the entire Al Zain team. It not only serves as a testament to the dedication, hard work, and passion that we put into every product, but also reinforces our commitment to excellence in everything we do. Receiving such recognition adds a great deal of prestige to our brand, further solidifying the trust our consumers place in us. It also highlights the quality of our products and services, reinforcing that we are consistently setting the bar higher in our industry. Ahmed Bakhit al Shanfari, Div Head – Marketing & Business Development, Al Maha Our success in maintaining a top position in the industry is driven by our commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer-centric services. With high-quality fuel products, an extensive network of service stations, and continuous investment in advanced technology, we ensure a seamless and reliable experience for our customers. Winning an award like Oman's Most Trusted Brand is both an honour and a significant motivator for us. It reinforces our dedication to building trust with consumers by consistently providing exceptional services and products. Senior Spokesman, OTE Our unwavering commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction has been key to securing our top position in the industry. By continuously evolving our products and services to meet the dynamic needs of our customers, Hyundai remains a trusted brand in Oman. With this award, our dedication to building long-term relationships with our customers will only grow stronger. Winning the OMTB award serves as a powerful motivation to continue earning consumer trust. It validates the efforts we've made to provide exceptional products and services while reinforcing our commitment to customer satisfaction. Malabar Gold & Diamonds, K Najeeb Ever since the launch of our 1st showroom in Oman in 2010, Malabar Gold and Diamonds has been at the forefront of the jewellery landscape in the sultanate. Our rapport and trust amongst citizens and residents alike in Oman has been built through a long history of providing an exquisite array of jewellery combined with a wide host of transparent service assurances. Being honoured with Oman's Most Trusted Brand award for the 7th time will undoubtedly be a great motivator for us to continue providing our customers with an exceptional jewellery shopping experience. Abdul Latheef and Dr P A Mohamed, Managing Directors, Badr Al Samaa Group of Hospitals The overall quality healthcare services governed by safe practices and protocols laid by international accreditation bodies and Ministry of Health, coupled with efficient and highly experienced and caring medical staff has made us ensure the best treatment for our patients in a safe environment. This award is an acknowledgment of the trust our patients and communities have shown in us. Brands chosen for the award by due voting and a stringent process are the actual voice of the people, so it is always encouraging and inspirational. This is our 7th OMTB award – we strive to keep on winning it every year ahead. Abdul Wahid Al Murshidi, Acting CEO, Sohar International Earning the title of 'Oman's Most Trusted Brand 2024' is a powerful endorsement of Sohar International's unwavering commitment to setting new benchmarks in banking excellence. Trust is the cornerstone of sustainable financial leadership, and this recognition reflects our strategic focus on innovation, customer-centricity, and long-term value creation. As we continue to drive transformation in the financial sector, we remain dedicated to empowering individuals, businesses, and the national economy with forward-thinking solutions that inspire confidence and growth. Sajir C P, Business Director, Apex Media OMTB is Oman's only consumer-driven brand award, making it a true reflection of public trust. Unlike industry-judged accolades, OMTB is decided entirely by consumers, ensuring authenticity and credibility. Over the years, it has evolved into the nation's most definitive benchmark for brand excellence, with no other event of this scale in the country. Winning this award is a testament to a brand's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, reinforcing loyalty and boosting visibility across marketing platforms. It's more than an award – it's a powerful symbol of trust that drives business success in Oman's competitive market.