As part of its “Vocal for Local” movement to support local agribusiness and Saudi farmers, LuLu Hypermarket yesterday launched ‘From Our Land’ its Local Farmers Support Initiative at LuLu Hypermarket, Khurais in Riyadh and in Dammam at LuLu Hypermarket, Shatti. Under the push for promoting local vegetables and fruits, LuLu has entered into an agreement with the Al-Rowia Cooperative Society for Agricultural Marketing to bring Saudi-grown banana, papaya and mangoes from Jizan to its shoppers. The products are all properly cleaned, washed and checked for quality by well-known food packaging company Global Star, so that they match export quality products. The peak season for banana will be mid-2023 and the mangoes grown in Saudi Arabia will take centre-stage at the popular Saudi Mango Festival organised by LuLu in April 2023. “At LuLu, we are committed not only to the larger national food sustainability vision of the Saudi leadership but also to supporting the Saudi farmer,” said Shehim Mohammed, Director of LuLu Saudi Arabia, “Presently, LuLu has made a commitment to take 10 tons of produce every week and this is expected to grow as demand increases. Excess production will also be channeled to GCC export markets through the LuLu network of retail warehouses and hypermarkets. “ The Riyadh inauguration was done by Fahad Alhamzi – Director General, Riyadh Region – Ministry of Agriculture. Also present were Mean Angkeri – Director General - Cooperative Society and Sulaiman Aljitali – Director General of Marketing, Riyadh Region – Ministry of Agriculture. They were received by LuLu officials. In Dammam, the inauguration was presided over by Amer Almutari - the Director-General of the Ministry of Agriculture, Eastern province. He was joined Ms. Abtissam Alkumazi , Assistance to Director-General, Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development. They were welcomed by LuLu officials.