Abu Dhabi's Revamped Food Supply System Unveiled

Abu Dhabi: On February 28, the existing subsidized food centers will close as significant changes take effect in the daily lives of Abu Dhabi residents, and the services will move to new locations under ADCOOP - officially known as Abu Dhabi Cooperative Society - now managed by the Mair Group. The goal is to create a more modern, transparent, and accessible supply system.

Why is this change happening?

According to a statement by the Abu Dhabi Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), the current subsidized food centers will permanently close, and the services will continue under a unified commercial network, ADCOOP. As part of this, subsidized food sales will be available at 48 new locations with flexible opening hours. The aim is to provide the population easier access to essential products in a more convenient shopping environment.

What is ADCOOP, and how has it changed?

In 2024, the Mair Group implemented a comprehensive rebranding within ADCOOP. As a result, seven distinct retail brands were consolidated under a single unified identity. These brands included Abu Dhabi Coop, Al Ain Coop, Al Dhafra Coop, Delma Coop, COOPS, Earth, and Mega Mart. The aim of the consolidation was not only to increase efficiency but also to provide the emirate's residents, whether Emirati nationals, Arab residents, or expatriates of different nationalities, a modern, all-encompassing shopping experience.

According to an official statement from the Media Office, ADCOOP will offer a comprehensive retail offering in the future that considers cultural diversity, factors improving quality of life, and modernization of shopping habits.

What does this mean for shoppers?

The key message is that no one will be left without access to subsidized food. The DMT's goal is precisely to make the service even more accessible. The number of new locations - 48 - represents a significant expansion compared to the previous state. Moreover, the stores will operate with longer opening hours, adapting to the diverse lifestyles of the population, whether they are employees, retirees, or large families.

However, the change may also mean a new routine for those accustomed to visiting the existing centers. DMT specifically highlighted that those unsure of where their nearest new location will be should feel free to contact the authorities directly, who will gladly provide information on the details.

Social Aspects and Expectations

Subsidized food programs play an important role in maintaining the standard of living in the UAE, especially for middle and low-income households. Therefore, the smooth transition is of paramount importance. It is expected from the community that the new system will preserve existing social support elements while providing more modern infrastructure and better customer experience.

According to Mair Group's commitment, the new ADCOOP units will have expanded inventory, well-stocked shelves, and clearly labeled subsidized products. The new locations may offer not only traditional stores but also modern hybrid shops – for example, self-service counters, express service, and even home delivery.

Economic Impact and Retail Competition

The change also signifies that Abu Dhabi is shifting the retail sector towards a more integrated and competitive direction. By consolidating several brands into a single system, the Mair Group not only realizes more cost-effective operations but also ensures stronger market presence - which could be a challenge for other supermarket chains.

Through the integration, the logistics chain could also become more efficient: centralized procurement, unified pricing policy, and a transparent supply structure are expected. This not only benefits consumers in the long run but also increases the economy's overall stability since it can reduce the risk of supply chain disruptions.

What to Expect in the Future?

The development of ADCOOP is part of a larger reform process that aligns with Abu Dhabi's digital, urban development, and social strategies. It is conceivable that digital customer cards, shopping through mobile apps, or personalized offers may soon appear in the system. Since Mair Group is open to technological innovations, it would not be surprising if artificial intelligence and big data-based analyses helped optimize inventories and promotions.

Conclusion

The February 28 change is not just about relocating stores but represents a step in modernization that reflects the transformation of Abu Dhabi's urban landscape and residential services. The availability of subsidized foods will not decrease; in fact, the number of stores will increase, accessibility will improve, and the range of services will expand. The new era of ADCOOP focuses on consumer interests while fitting into the emirate's long-term urban and economic goals.