In this exclusive interview, Jeet Anil Shah, a passionate fourth-generation director of Shah Nagardas Manji & Co. LLC, discusses the company’s legacy and key projects. He also shares market insights and emerging trends shaping the growth of hospitality, restaurants and catering in Oman.
How would you describe your company, Shah Nagardas Manji & Co. LLC?
Shah Nagardas Manji & Co. LLC is a well-established, multidivisional family-owned business group based in Muscat, Oman. With a legacy spanning over 90 years, the company has built a strong reputation. Moreover, it is recognized for its commitment to quality and exceptional customer satisfaction throughout its operations. The company operates under the retail brand Shah Nagardas, serving as a trusted partner across multiple sectors. Additionally, it represents a diverse portfolio of international brands, offering a wide range of products and services. These are organized into several key divisions that meet various market needs.
Firstly, the industrial kitchen, laundry and kitchenware division includes design planning, MEP layouts, FF&E, OS&E equipment, training and maintenance. This division represents premium brands focused on durability and efficiency for clients in hospitality, catering, healthcare and government sectors. Secondly, the stationery, art and craft materials division distribute international stationery and art supplies to educational institutions and offices. Meanwhile, the industrial products division offers a variety of industrial NDT equipment and innovative solutions. Finally, the healthcare division provides medical equipment along with related professional services to meet healthcare demands efficiently.
What have been the most notable highlights for your business in 2025?
This year has been eventful. We successfully completed several major kitchen and laundry projects, among them The Park Inn Azaiba Hotel and Em Sherif Restaurant at the new St. Regis Hotel. Looking ahead, 2025 appears promising with new government sector projects underway. Moreover, upcoming hypermarkets and a rising number of stand-alone restaurants and upscale cafes offer significant growth opportunities. Therefore, we remain optimistic about expanding our presence and delivering quality solutions across these evolving markets.
What is your assessment of the current state of the local market?
The Omani Horeca market is currently experiencing robust growth due to several important factors driving its expansion. Firstly, increased spending by Omani households has encouraged trying newer foods and diverse culinary experiences. Secondly, the rapid growth of food delivery platforms is transforming the market by supporting more restaurants and cloud kitchens. Furthermore, tourism growth has stimulated the development of many new four- and five-star hotels alongside luxury dining avenues in Oman. Lastly, the government’s strong focus on infrastructure improvement further supports and strengthens this expanding sector significantly.
What is the prevailing trend in the region?
Horeca sector growth will be driven by uniqueness, strong technological backing and a clear focus on consumer-centric experiences. Consequently, businesses that adapt quickly to these trends will align better with evolving consumer preferences and demands. Moreover, companies embracing innovation and personalized service will be well-positioned to thrive in this dynamic, competitive market environment. Therefore, staying agile and responsive to changing trends remains crucial for long-term success and sustainable growth within the Horeca sector.
