About Us

Market

We tap into one the most attractive markets in the world, with a $ 700Bn retail market, a very young population, a diversified economy and a highly relevant consumer profile for international brands aiming to expand their business into new geographies.

Business Model

Competition is divided in BIG corporations collecting brands with no clear focus on small to medium international brands, or very small and not so much professional monocultural companies with low standards. HOB represents a breath of fresh air and a multi cultural, high profiled team, boutique-agency option for international brands in MENA.

Team

HOB team has a proven track record in the industry and the region, with more than 40 years of combined experience in leading retail brands such as LEGO, adidas, asics or Reebok. Given our experience in MENA, we have access to all key touchpoints in the value chain: Brands, Landlords, 3PL and Talent.

About Us

We’re your partner to execute your Expansion into Emerging markets

HOB was founded in 2023 to empower international brands in expanding their presence and unlocking their full potential in the MENA region. Navigating the complexities of this dynamic market—along with high start-up costs—can be a major barrier for small to medium-sized brands looking to establish themselves in emerging markets. With our expertise and proven track record, we provide tailored strategies, from securing the right retail partnerships to offering high-impact consultancy, ensuring a seamless and successful market entry.

End-to-End Brand Expansion

HOB offers a comprehensive range of services across all channels, tailored to each brand’s needs. Whether through a traditional distribution model, an agency-wholesale approach, consultancy, or direct commercial distribution, we provide strategic solutions to drive growth and success in the market.

Trusted by Leading Brands

The Team

Meet the Experts Behind HOB

Alberto Gaudioso

With over 20 years of international experience in management roles—spanning marketing, sales, business development, and general management—across Adidas, Reebok, and Asics in Europe, Russia, and the Middle East. Currently leading the development of the fashion omnichannel retail concept SVD in the Middle East.

Pedro Casado

With over 15 years of International experience in Sales and Finance, specializing in Retail and Franchise business development—from concept to execution—delivering world-class excellence. Previously worked with Global brands such as the LEGO Group, adidas, and IKEA across Germany, USA, Denmark and last 8 years based in the the Middle East.

The Region

50M (Potential Users)

MENA is an acronym for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The World Bank includes 20 countries as part of MENA and based on their 2020 population reports, the region accounts for approximately 6% of the world’s population. According to OPEC data, the MENA region holds more than half of the world’s oil reserves, and two-fifths of the world’s natural gas reserves. The region holds strong economic opportunities with GDP growth last year of 4,3% in the Gulf countries and a bit over for the North Africa countries.

 14 Countries In Scope 500m Population Av Median Age 27 Yo.
11.6% Cagr Sports Market 21-25 Gdp Growth Rate 2.5% Real Dubai N1 Int’nl Visitor Spend
DISTRIBUTION OPPORTUNITY

Unlocking New Distribution Opportunities

Wholesale

Multibrand stores online and offline.

E-commerce

Experiential.com to drive brand awareness in combo with convenience and commercial uplift.

Retail

Monobrand store expansion across top malls with state-of-the-art logistics and retails operations.