Watsons, Asia’s leading health and beauty retailer in partnership with Al Futtaim, has entered the Bahrain market with the official opening of its first store in the Kingdom at Marassi Galleria Mall.

As Watsons remains committed to further growth and expansion across the GCC, this exciting launch marks a significant milestone in the company’s growth strategy, with two additional stores set to open by the end of this year at Seef Mall and City Centre Bahrain.

With a population of more than 1.5 million and strategically located in the GCC market, Bahrain is a regional hotspot for tourists who are driving the growth of its retail market, having had a 7 per cent  increase in consumer spending over the last five years.

In a market with a growing disposable income, it’s an important commercial hub which has cemented Watsons’ decision to debut in the country.

The all-new 1,350 sq. ft. Watsons store in Bahrain features an extensive selection of products from more than 200 leading international and local brands, including trending K-Beauty brands such as Beauty of Joseon, Colorgram and Holika Holika as well as renowned brands such asL’oreal, Maybelline, Revlon and CosRx.

The store features the company’s exclusive brands such as Naturals by Watsons and Collagen by Watsons – all catering to diverse customer needs. From skincare to cosmetics, wellness products to personal and haircare essentials, Watsons aims to enhance the shopping experience by combining its market-leading affordable product range with exceptional customer service. 

The store has designated zones to include sustainable health and beauty products in both the natural and clean beauty zones which is in line with Bahrain’s surge in demand for natural and organic products due to increasing consumer awareness about the benefits of chemical-free formulations.

The new store also has a dedicated open makeup area, encouraging customers to play around and try the latest skincare from a wide range of sought after brands.

MENA is one of the fastest growing regions for beauty and is projected to reach an average annual growth of 12 per cent by 2027. The GCC demographic landscape has led to a significant surge in demand for beauty and personal care products in the region, with Watsons dedicated to providing personalised advice and expert guidance in health, beauty and personal care; empowering customers to ‘Look Good, Do Good, Feel Great’ every day.

In Bahrain, the revenue generated in the skincare market, which includes cosmetic products designed for care and protection of the skin, is projected to reach $71.29 million in 2024 with an anticipated annual growth rate of 3.96 per cent until 2029.

In addition to its commitment to customer satisfaction, Watsons also prioritises sustainability and community engagement, ensuring that its operations benefit the local environment and society. 

“We are very excited to bring the Watsons experience to Bahrain, a regional hotspot and retail destination for the GCC,” said Jonathan Watts, General Manager, Watsons.

“Our store in the capital will offer a wide range of high-quality health and beauty products, along with expert advice from our trained staff. We look forward to serving the local community and providing them with the best in personal care.”

To celebrate the store’s opening, Watsons hosted exciting promotions for its customers. The first 200 customers received exclusive gifts, including products from SHEGLAM, Batiste and ROC, along with a gift voucher worth 15 per cent off their next purchase.

Additionally, as a part of the Blue Rewards offer, the first 2,000 customers received special gifts featuring products from popular brands like Revlonand Eucerin. Watsons will also offer quick commerce services through both Talabat and Namshi in the region.

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