On 1st May, Nisa retailer Abdul Majid was anointed as SGF President. It’s just the latest step in a long career in retail, and we caught up with him to talk about how he got here, and what his plans are.
Let’s start with an easy one, Abdul. How long have you worked in retail?
All my life. I’m not joking either. I came into the business at 11 when my dad opened his shop. I’ve never left and I’ve been running my current shop for 31 years.
Tell us a bit about your shop.
It’s currently trading under a Nisa fascia, but it’s come a long way. Originally we were VG, back in the good old days. When they merged with Spar we became independent, but later joined Spar, where I stayed for 16 years before changing to Nisa four years ago.
What prompted that change?
Tesco Express opened on my doorstep and I thought Nisa had a better offer for allowing me to compete with them. That’s worked out to be the case, but I’ve still got a great relationship with Spar. We’re on friendly terms and they understfand my reasons for moving, which were purely for business.
What is the biggest threat to independents?
In the last five years we’ve had an Aldi and Lidl open near us, in addition to the Tesco Express; as have many local retailers. The discounters and superstores have a genuine offer and to compete against that local retailers are having to slash their prices, so there’s an argument that local retailers are now serious competition for each other, as consumers shop about even for every day products.
How did you become involved with the SGF?
Key to this is Sandy Wilkie from Wisemans; it’s all his fault. Years ago he asked me to get involved with the Wiseman Awards, which I did. That led me to realise that a lot of retailers looked only at their own business, and not the bigger picture. That led me to join the Spar Guild. I was then elected to the SGF board. I’m also on the Nisa council. I like to ensure Scottish retailers have a voice.
How do you feel about the SGF Presidency?
I’m happy to take the role. When Tesco put its application in near me seven year ago I wondered if it was time to go or stay and fight. I had a couple of serious offers but then I saw an advert in The Herald for an MBA course. It made me realise I knew nothing other than retail, so I did the course and kept my shop. I did my dissertation on the SGF, so I know how the Federation works, and I know its strengths, and where the challenges lie.
So you’ll be getting stuck right in?
Exactly. There’ll be no time to settle in. I’ll be very concentrated on retailer rights, very proactive. Our first executive meeting is this month, and I’ve already met with some retailers. I’ve also met with Asim Sarwar, the SWA President – I want to speak to as wide a retail community as possible. We represent all local retailers out there and I want to know what they want.
What will be the biggest issue you face?
The independence vote, undoubtedly. If it’s a yes, we know major change will happen, but even if it’s a no vote, all parties have committed to Scotland having more devolved power. We need to be ready to play our part.
Sounds like you’re a very busy man. What do you do in your free time?
What free time? Ha! My passion is the UCare Foundation, which provides accessible healthcare and education facilities in rural Pakistan. I’m a trustee and my dad and family are also involved. If I’ve got time left I enjoy playing golf, and my other passion is watching my son play rugby.
