Interview: Shahzad Ahmed, Chairman & CEO, Blue Ocean Global

Shahzad Ahmed, Chairman & CEO, Blue Ocean Global interview for ‘TECHx ICT Distribution Feature’

TECHx: What is the 2021 market outlook for Blue Ocean Global? As a distributor, what are your key strategic focus areas this year?

Shahzad: We are optimistic that, given the pace at which the UAE vaccination drive is progressing, the economy will gain more traction by this summer, and the tourists will be welcomed in the UAE.  As a diversified business conglomerate representing some of the world’s best-performing brands in the areas of telecom, consumer electronics, cookware, electrical, and lifestyle accessories products, we at Blue Ocean Global (BOG) are bullish for the UAE market in 2021. We would be further strengthening in the existing area, however, we have just signed up with our new partners & would be having new products in the market soon

TECHx: What are the new digital transformation trends you foresee in 2021? How do you capitalize on the opportunities this changing market has created?

Shahzad: Online shopping will be playing an important role and it will only increase. As time goes by, we would be seeing new names jumping in e-commerce space. Hence, we would be strategically focusing further on online platforms both in the UAE & GCC as well as in the UK market too, specifically by listing in new multinational brands including robot cleaners, wellness products, small domestic appliances & FMCG.

TECHx: Recently Blue Ocean has entered into some key strategic partnerships. What new collaborations are currently in the pipeline for the company?

Shahzad: Blue Ocean Global’s growth plan has always included seeking out and aligning with new partners. Recently we have become the first to be appointed by Black & Decker as the official brand licensee to manufacture & market nonstick cookware for the Middle East region. The Products will soon be launched & will be available on the online channels of key hypermarkets. Also, we will be launching robotic vacuum cleaners to promote technology in the region. This will empower transformation in everyday lives.

TECHx: Simplification of technology adoption has always remained a key ask for organizations. How does Blue Ocean Global align with this need?

Shahzad: The global robotics market continues to see increased growth, with the rapid adoption of the technology across sectors such as healthcare, education, aviation, facilities management, hospitality, and infrastructure. Our focus as a distributor would be promoting and adopting technology. To begin, we will introduce robotic cleaners in the area of floor, lawn, and glass soon in the region.