Muscat: For many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), franchising presents an ideal business model, with its inherent support systems often being a cornerstone to its success. Ms. Salma Saif Al-Sulimani, a motivated businesswoman, stood at the crossroads of such a venture. Drawn to the appeal of the renowned Spanish brand, La Chinata, she faced the quintessential challenge of every entrepreneur – how to navigate this promising yet demanding path. In her quest for guidance, Salma turned to Oman’s leading SME development firm Sharakah, an institution celebrated for its dedication to fostering entrepreneurial spirit and uplifting the aspirations of emerging business leaders.
Building on business management graduate Salma’s initial efforts, Sharakah stepped in with its tailored solutions. They employed their distinctive 360-degree Business Performance Monitoring Tool (BPMT), a recognised industry-standard tool, complemented by other resources, to further refine and enhance the business trajectory set by Salma for La Chinata. In addition to their strategic tools and resources, Sharakah bolstered Salma’s venture with essential funding and loan provisions.
With Sharakah’s support, Salma embarked on her journey with La Chinata which is celebrated for its premium products rooted in the essence of extra virgin olive oil.
Reflecting on her entrepreneurial journey, Salma shares, “Introducing the La Chinata brand to Oman was a source of immense pride for me. Beyond their renowned olive oils, the brand unfolds a tapestry of gourmet foods, cosmetics, baby products and skincare essentials—all echoing the richness of olive oil. The skincare range, in particular, captures the nourishing essence of olive oil’s antioxidants and moisturizers. Their gourmet spread further tantalizes with a mix from traditional olive oils to specialties like pates, vinegars, and varied spices. Such unwavering commitment to quality and originality is what sets La Chinata apart. So, I thought it was high time Oman got acquainted with such a brand.”
Expressing her gratitude, she adds, “Sharakah played an instrumental role in turning this dream into a reality, offering unparalleled support and guidance at every step, thereby enabling me to realise my goals and grow.”
Today, the La Chinata store is a prominent fixture in the vibrant Oman Avenues Mall. Salma, with ambition shining in her eyes, aspires to broaden her entrepreneurial horizons, setting her sights on launching multiple branches not only in Oman but also beyond the borders of Oman.
Ali Ahmed Muqaibal, CEO of Sharakah, says, “As the driving force behind entrepreneurial dreams, Sharakah is proud to have played a part in Salma’s remarkable journey with La Chinata. Our mission is to empower and uplift, and seeing Salma’s vision come to life reaffirms the transformative power of partnership, dedication, and strategic guidance. Oman’s business landscape is brimming with potential, and we are honored to catalyze such promising ventures.”
About Sharakah
Sharakah, among Oman’s first SME development initiatives has been fostering the entrepreneurial spirit since 1998 when it was incorporated by a Royal Decree No. (76/98). Since its inception, Sharakah has provided support to a substantial number of projects in different sectors through awareness, training programs, financial support, consultation services and more. Playing a strategic role in the SMEs ecosystem in the Sultanate and making a positive impact is Sharakah’s vision, and its strategies revolve around the objectives of benefitting the Omani SME sector.
Contact:
Mohammed Al Farsi
Marketing Specialist
Email: info@sharakah.om
Phone: 24479300
