What is the regular HR practice of hiring employees at Al-Futtaim?
We normally hire people on a permanent basis on a four-year contract. Over the last three years, a new distribution channel has opened-up - Mass Merchandisers or Power Retailers, at the hypermarkets, where they provide a variety of offerings to the customers, that include, electronics and home appliances. It is in the interest of the company and its brands that these sections need to be staffed well.
What promoted you to have merchandisers outsourced?
Headcount increase is something which no organization would like to have, as it adds up to the fixed cost. Typically the situation in the West is that, part-timers are hired to fill in for manpower requirements during peak hours, but here in the UAE, Labour laws do not permit people to work, unless they have a work permit issued by the Ministry of Labour. As our group is committed to following statutory requirements, we were prompted to look for a viable alternative and that’s what has prompted us to outsource merchandisers.
How did you zero in on outsourcing merchandisers from Dulsco?
Over the last four years, we have mobilized our own pool of merchandisers. Apart from the retail requirement, temporary staffing demands come up during DSF, DSS, GITEX and other such festivals and events. These exhibitions and festivals have become a key contributor to sales and therefore, an important part of the sales strategy.
Traditionally, we knew Dulsco as a contract blue-collar service provider. We have used Dulsco work force for a very long time - mainly drivers and technicians working for us who are under Dulsco sponsorship. The proposal to outsource merchandisers came at the right time when we were in the process of looking for a company who would service our needs.
Please comment on the joint recruitment trip to India with Dulsco personnel?
To ensure that we mobilize sufficient numbers, we decided to undertake a joint trip to India to recruit candidates. The primary objective was to pick the right candidates, so that their careers are stable and to make sure that the cost of employing them are covered.
What is the present merchandiser requirement with Al-Futtaim?
Presently we have around 50 merchandisers, though we are now in the process of increasing the organized merchandiser recruitment.
Are our people at par with your existing merchandiser base?
Sales figures have seen an increasing trend; incentives have been introduced to motivate the team. In another three months time, once they settle down, I’m positive that they will be more effective.
How do you differentiate us from the other service providers?
Dulsco has been in this business for a very long time. Initial experience of working with Dulsco has been good. We are very happy with the level of service extended to us. Dulsco is well-focused, committed and provide good remuneration and facilities, including accommodation, to their employees. It is a progressive and welfare-oriented organization and we see a lot of visibility in the press in this regard. What we are assured-of is the fact that outsourcing services from Dulsco complies with all legal requirements.
How cost-effective has it been for you to hire merchandisers from us?
It has been fairly cost-effective for us, as we have had a transparent discussion over the fixed costs and therefore the rates provided, which is a healthy scenario for both the organizations.
Note: This interview is based on questions developed by Dulsco, to gather client feedback on partnering with Dulsco to hire merchandisers.