Union Coop, one of the UAE’s largest consumer cooperatives, has reported a sharp increase in retail activity during the back-to-school period, with August seeing peak demand at shopping centres and outlets across the country.
The surge came as families prepared for the new academic year, driving higher sales of essential school and household items.
Major campaigns launched
To meet the seasonal demand, Union Coop rolled out three promotional campaigns covering a wide range of categories, including stationery, electronics, school bags, office supplies, food items and consumer products.
The promotions featured discounts of up to 50 per cent on hundreds of items, which the cooperative said helped ease financial pressures on families while ensuring access to high-quality goods.
Beyond immediate sales benefits, Union Coop positioned the campaigns as part of its broader strategy to promote the UAE’s national economy. By prioritising local suppliers and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the cooperative aimed to strengthen supply chains and support retail sustainability.
Focus on community role
Union Coop also highlighted its role as a community partner, organising a series of activities alongside strategic partners. Among these were initiatives to distribute gifts to students at the start of the school year, reinforcing its reputation as a socially responsible retailer.
The cooperative said these community engagements will continue throughout the year, reflecting its commitment to building stronger ties with residents while addressing their everyday needs.
Balancing physical and digital retail
In line with wider shifts in consumer behaviour, Union Coop emphasised its efforts to provide a seamless shopping experience across both in-store and online channels.
By offering competitive promotions in physical outlets and on digital platforms, the cooperative said it aimed to foster “positive competition” that drives innovation and convenience.
“Balancing quality with value under one roof remains our guiding principle,” a Union Coop spokesperson said. “By investing in both physical and digital shopping, we enhance customer satisfaction and contribute to the evolution of the UAE’s retail landscape.”
Supporting national retail vision
The campaigns, Union Coop added, align with the UAE’s push for retail resilience and sustainability. With a growing emphasis on supporting local production and supply, the cooperative said it is committed to creating long-term benefits for both businesses and consumers.
Industry observers noted that Union Coop’s approach reflects a broader trend in the UAE’s retail sector, where large retailers are blending discount-led campaigns with community outreach to maintain loyalty and expand market share.
The back-to-school season, they said, has become a critical period for retailers in the country, with promotions extending well beyond school-related products to cover everyday consumer goods.
Union Coop’s ability to combine commercial strategy with social engagement, analysts added, positions it strongly in an increasingly competitive marketplace where customer expectations are shaped by both value and experience.
With August sales closing on a high, the cooperative expects momentum to carry into the final quarter of the year, boosted by upcoming seasonal promotions and continued demand from households.
