Lulu to set up 1,200 cr shopping mall in Kochi

Kochi, Aug 25: UAE-based Lulu International Shopping Mall Group on Monday, Aug 25 announced its plan to construct a Rs 1,200 crore shopping mall in the city. Group Managing Director Yusuffali MA, while addressing the media, said the project, spread over more than 17 acres with a total built-up area of 20 lakh sq ft, would be completed by 2010.

The mall, to be constructed by renowned consultant W S Atkins of the UK, would house more than 300 national and international brands of fashion, jewellery, electronics and lifestyle. It would also house a seven-theatre multiplex, family amusement centre with bowling alley and a 50,000 sq ft food court. The project also consisted of a 300-room five-star hotel and a commercial tower exclusively for airlines and aviation sector. An agreement had been signed with Marriot Hotels for running the five-star hotel, Mr Yusaffali, who hails from Kerala, said.

''This is our dream project and our plan is not to build just a shopping mall but a landmark destination for residents and tourists alike,'' he added.

Mr Yousaffali said the mall would generate direct employment to 6,000 people and indirect employment to around 20,000 people.

To overcome the shortage of trained professionals in retailing, the Group was also planning to start a Retail Management School with the mall, he added.

The eco-friendly project had obtained all necessary permissions and clearances from the State and Central Governments, he said.

The Group, with an annual turnover of Rs 5,000 crore, has over 70 shopping centres in the Gulf region and offices in 16 countries.

UNI