Du has partnered with Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Programme, a part of Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for SME Development, to launch a first-of-its-kind franchise initiative in the UAE to support local entrepreneurs.

Du on Wednesdaay launched the first step in the franchise module, under which it is set to franchise all 'du shops' in various phases throughout 2010. This comes as part of its ongoing strategy to provide a unique and convenient experience for customers, said a Du official.

The project will expand du’s retail scope and boost convenience for customers throughout the UAE, providing greater flexibility and availability through the proliferation of anytime, anywhere du outlets.

The collaboration will give priority to UAE national entrepreneurs when applying for a franchise with du, providing them with the opportunity to showcase their abilities and grow professionally.

“This initiative is yet another example of du’s commitment to providing customers with easy and convenient ‘anytime, anywhere’ accessibility, by broadening du’s retail scope across the UAE, while also offering a unique customer experience with a local flavour,” remaarked Farid Faraidooni, chief commercial officer, du.

“We are proud to announce our partnership with the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Programme. This first phase in our franchise module aims to support the state’s Emiratisation efforts – in-line with our own Emiritisation strategy - by giving UAE nationals entrepreneurs the chance to develop the state’s small and medium enterprises (SME) business sector and thereby enabling them to contribute to the UAE’s economy,” he added.

As part of the franchise project, du will give support to its selected franchisees by providing them with training and marketing collateral, as well as suggesting suitable locations to set up their retail outlets.

The company’s support plan aims to assist local entrepreneurs in establishing their businesses, while also ensuring du customer relations are maintained at the  highest standards.

“Our partnership with du comes in-line with our commitment to affiliate with different organisations in Dubai to strengthen the participation of UAE nationals in the business sector. du is one of the UAE’s fastest and most successful companies and will therefore benefit SMEs through this project by helping them to develop and grow,' commented Abdul Baset Al Janahi, chief executive officer, Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for SME Development.-TradeArabia News Service