Italian pasta brand Barilla expands into Saudi

Italian pasta brand Barilla has announced regional expansion into Saudi Arabia for distribution of its traditional pasta products.through retailers across the Kingdom, in partnership with Mayar Foods.

“Our expansion into Saudi Arabia marks a major milestone for Barilla as we continue to experience increased demand from the region for Barilla’s Italian pasta products.

"Since opening our Dubai MEA head office we have also expanded in North Africa and continue to focus on the company’s Italian rooted culture of providing delicious and nutritious food that is healthy, convenient and good for the planet,” said Loay Elkhouly, managing director, Barilla – MEA.

Barilla is currently working with more than 2,000 retail stores, 5,000 restaurants and five airlines across the GCC (excluding Saudi Arabia) with the majority of distribution in the UAE, Qatar and Oman via regional partners.

“We are proud to be working with Mayar Food on our expansion into Saudi Arabia and are confident in the joint success that will be brought through their expertise and vision to provide Saudi Arabia consumers with top quality food products,” Elkhouly commented.

Ahmed S. Al-Muhaidib, general manager, Mayar Foodsm added: “Mayar Foods beliefs match well with the Barilla Group. Barilla’s top quality farming and production, and Mayar Food’s expertise in product distribution will allow consumers to have the best of traditional Italian cuisine across all major supermarkets in the Kingdom. We are proud to be working with Barilla to provide consumers and the trade in Saudi Arabia with the world’s best Italian pasta products.” 

Barilla Restaurant Group, part of the Barilla family of brands, has also just opened its first restaurant in the region in Dubai and is planning further expansion in 2017.