Pinar labneh still unrivalled in the GCC

THE Pinar labneh (a soft, cream cheese made from strained yogurt) is still the most popular brand in the GCC according to recent data. The product from Pinar Food and Beverage Group accounted for 37 percent of market share in the UAE, 52 percent in Kuwait, and 28 percent in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in terms of value, as reported by AC Nielsen 2015 retail audit report.  

Pinar Group, a subsidiary of Yasar Holding, owes this strong leadership to product innovation. The company has been able to attract market interest as well as achieve the highest level of customer satisfaction across the region, the company said. With plans to expand its distribution of food products in the GCC, the company’s market share is set to grow even further.

(Photo: AL Press)

Arda Cenk Tokbas, General Manager, HDF FZCo, Pinar’s regional office, said: “The regional food market, is rapidly rising simultaneous with its booming population. Pinar will capitalize on this growth by focusing in areas that will further solidify our leading industry position. We are looking at further broadening our operations and market presence as a demonstration of our commitment to contribute to the GCC’s further development. The move will also enable us to reach a wider number of households in the long term. Due to its strategic geographical location, the Emirates has become an important key point for our strategic expansion plan.”

The company recently received the Product of the Year award for the second consecutive year based on consumer survey, and a committee comprising industry experts selected Pinar as one of the finalists this year.

The product was adjudged the winner in the labneh category after earning the highest consumer votes in the attractiveness, satisfaction, and innovation criteria. The distinction was based on a survey conducted by independent regional research company TNS which said Pinar obtained the highest votes from 3,600 GCC consumers.