Silal announces joining of new CEO

Silal announces joining of new CEO

  • 24.03.2025 11:14
  • zawya.com
  • Keywords: Dhafer Al Qasimi, Silal, ADQ, Agthia Group, SAFCO, Al Bakrawe Holding, Sherwood

Silal has appointed Dhafer Al Qasimi as its new CEO, succeeding Salmeen Al Ameri who will lead Agthia Group. Al Qasimi brings expertise in food supply chains from his role at ADQ, where he oversaw strategic projects in the food sector.

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Estimated market influence

Silal

Positivesentiment_satisfied
Analyst rating: N/A

Announced new CEO, Dhafer Al Qasimi, and is part of ADQ. Under Salmeen Al Ameri's leadership, Silal made strategic acquisitions and innovations in food tech.

ADQ

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Analyst rating: N/A

Silal is part of ADQ, a sovereign investor. Dhafer Al Qasimi joined from ADQ, bringing expertise in food value chain and sustainable practices.

Agthia Group

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Analyst rating: N/A

Salmeen Al Ameri will become CEO of Agthia Group after leaving Silal. Agthia is a major food and beverage company.

SAFCO

Neutralsentiment_neutral
Analyst rating: N/A

Acquired by Silal as part of strategic expansion under Salmeen Al Ameri's leadership.

Al Bakrawe Holding

Neutralsentiment_neutral
Analyst rating: N/A

Acquired by Silal to expand sourcing network and operational scale.

Sherwood

Neutralsentiment_neutral
Analyst rating: N/A

Acquired by Silal for pest management solutions, enhancing their agricultural inputs capabilities.

Context

Business Insights and Market Implications Analysis

Key Appointments

  • Dhafer Al Qasimi appointed as new CEO of Silal, effective March 24, 2025.
  • Salmeen Al Ameri transitions to Managing Director & CEO of Agthia Group.

Strategic Acquisitions and Expansion (2022-Present)

  • Acquisition Highlights:
    • Majority stake in SAFCO, UAE-based food distributor.
    • Major regional importer/exporter Al Bakrawe Holding.
    • Leading pest management solutions provider Sherwood.
  • Impact: Strengthened sourcing network, operational scale, and market position.

Innovation and Infrastructure Development

  • Silal Innovation Oasis: Cutting-edge R&D hub in Al Ain for food tech & sustainability.
  • Automated Produce Packhouse: UAE’s largest facility enhancing agri-food infrastructure and efficiency.

Financial and Market Context

  • Silal operates under ADQ, a major Abu Dhabi holding company.
  • Mandates include procurement programs, strategic food reserves, and R&D initiatives in desert farming techniques.

Competitive Landscape

  • Agthia Group: Key competitor in the UAE’s food sector.
  • Strategic Focus Areas:
    • Supply chain resilience.
    • Resource optimization.
    • Innovation-driven sustainability practices.

Market Trends and Industry Impact

  • Local Food Production: Silal’s focus aligns with Abu Dhabi’s goal of enhancing self-sufficiency.
  • Sustainability: Emphasis on eco-friendly practices positions Silal as a leader in the region’s agri-food sector.
  • Global Expansion: Plans to expand international reach, signaling potential market diversification.

Long-Term Effects and Regulatory Considerations

  • Regulatory Support: Likely alignment with UAE government initiatives promoting local agriculture and food security.
  • Potential Policy Impact: Silal’s growth may influence regulatory frameworks for agri-tech in the UAE.

Conclusion

The appointment of Dhafer Al Qasimi underscores ADQ’s strategic focus on food security and innovation. With a strong foundation laid by Salmeen Al Ameri, Silal is poised to drive further growth in Abu Dhabi’s food and agriculture sector, enhancing its competitive edge regionally and globally.