Alosra Supermarket, the Fresh and Friendly subsidiary of Bahrain Maritime and Mercantile International BSC (BMMI), is set to launch its largest outlet to date at the soon-to-open Al Hayat Shopping Centre in the Mahooz district.

In a press conference held today at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa, an agreement was signed by Mike Eastwood, COO of Retail and Distribution at BMMI and Dr. Fadhel Al Arrayed, Managing Director of Nasser Pharmacy.

Owned and operated by the island’s leading provider of pharmaceuticals, Al Hayat Shopping Centre is slated for completion by Q1 of 2011. This development will cover an area of 8,749 square meters and flaunt two prominent anchor stores – Nasser Pharmacy and Alosra.

The new Alosra outlet will present shoppers with a comprehensive range of products housed within its 2,000 square meters supermarket staffed by 100 employees, a majority of whom will be Bahraini nationals. On offer to customers will be a wide selection of fresh produce, meat, fish and poultry, delicatessen, baked treats and household goods. The store will also stock a line up of ready-to-eat salads, sandwiches and sushi from the BMMI Great brand of deli products.

With outlets in Budaiya, Amwaj and Durrat Al Bahrain, this is the first tactical venture by Alosra to make its foray into the heart of the island.

Commenting on the agreement, Mike Eastwood said, “This is a great opportunity for us to expand our presence into the Capital Governorate of Bahrain, a market that has long remained untapped by Alosra. Operating a branch just next door to the island’s central business district of Manama will allow us to broaden our client base and cater to a broader mix of consumers.”

Dr. Fadhel Al Arrayed added, “Partnering with premier supermarket chain Alosra was the obvious choice to anchor Al Hayat Shopping Centre. The strategic location of the shopping centre, combined with the strong brand names established by Alosra and Nasser Pharmacy will undoubtedly present customers with a novel offering.”

Al Hayat Shopping Centre will be supported by a selection of complementary outlets and services including a food court and ample parking, to help create a complete retail experience.