ABU DHABI// Workers in the capital's 1,300 corner grocery stores have 10 months left to renovate their shops or shut down - but many are still weighing their options and are worried about the up-front cost.
"We don't know yet," said Noor Rastegar, an Iranian whose father opened Arif Foodstuff near Hamdan Street in 1996. "We may go to Oman, maybe. It's very easy to open up a business in Oman."
The Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority announced the mandatory renovation plan in May. Last month, they opened an information centre to answer questions about the process. They also distributed informational booklets and a DVD to grocery managers, recommending contractors familiar with the requirements and outlining sample timelines.
"They give us a one-year period from January to December 31," said Mustafa Ghulam, purchasing manager for Al Ain Supermarket in Al Markaziyah. "During that period, you have to change everything. They want to make it like a minimart, like ADNOC."
Officials say the renovations will bring the industry in line with international standards, with safer food storage, less clutter and more consumer protections. All shops that meet the standards will be re-branded "Baqala," Arabic for grocery.
"I think they understand exactly what we want now," said Mohammed Jalal Al Reyaysa, the Authority's Director of Communications and Community Service. "And now they are in a position to make the decision - if they are going ahead to change, or whatever decision they would like to make."
vnereim@thenational.ae
