**Gulf:** Trendyol has shown remarkable growth in Saudi Arabia, now its second-largest market globally. CEO Mohamad ElAnsari attributes success to localisation, strategic partnerships, and innovative technology enhancing the shopping experience, as the company aims to expand its offerings and support local SMEs in the region.
Trendyol, the burgeoning e-commerce platform, has reported significant growth since its launch in the Gulf last year, with Saudi Arabia becoming its second-largest market globally. The company attributes this rapid ascendance to a combination of strategic localisation, robust partnerships, and innovative technology that enhances the shopping experience for consumers.
In an exclusive interview, Mohamad ElAnsari, CEO of Trendyol Gulf, discussed the various elements contributing to the platform’s successful integration within the Gulf’s retail landscape. He noted that the retail sector in Saudi Arabia has entered a phase of remarkable growth, driven by economic diversification and a growing base of digitally savvy consumers. “More people are shopping online and are increasingly expecting personalised experiences, a wide selection of relevant products, and competitive pricing,” ElAnsari stated.
From establishing operational offices in Riyadh and Dubai to enhancing logistics with local warehouses, Trendyol has adopted a customer-centric approach that aligns with regional expectations for fast delivery and a personalised shopping experience. ElAnsari emphasised the importance of partnerships, explaining that collaborations with government entities and industry players, such as banks and retailers, have fortified the firm’s operational efficiency and market presence.
One of the standout features of Trendyol’s strategy is its innovative technology. The platform has introduced Türkiye’s first large language model for seamless translation into Arabic, facilitating clearer communication between sellers and buyers. Additionally, AI-powered personalisation has been integral in enhancing user experiences, allowing customers to navigate the platform more easily and find products tailored to their needs.
ElAnsari elaborated on the marketplace’s dual role as a commerce enabler. “We connect consumers with retailers selling a wide selection of high-quality, affordable products across multiple categories,” he explained. This model not only benefits consumers through variety and relevance, but also aids sellers by enhancing visibility and providing access to logistics and insights. “By bridging these needs, we’ve become an integral part of the Gulf’s retail ecosystem, creating opportunities and driving success for both sides.”
In terms of future growth, Trendyol aims to expand its selection and onboard more SMEs to its platform to nurture local entrepreneurship and align with the national visions for economic diversification in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. ElAnsari remarked on the significance of their strategic partnership with Alshaya Group, which brings well-known international brands like American Eagle and H&M to Trendyol, enhancing the shopping selection available to consumers while fostering digital retail innovation.
The local partner ecosystem plays a pivotal role in Trendyol’s strategy by fostering connections within the region and empowering local businesses with tools for digital success. “Through our collaborations with local SMEs, government bodies like Monsha’at, and key industry players, we’re able to empower businesses with the tools they need to thrive in the digital space,” ElAnsari said.
Trendyol’s customer base has rapidly grown to over three million shoppers, a testament to its strategic localisation and quality offerings. The integration of advanced technology and effective marketing strategies, including influencer collaborations, has helped the platform resonate with Gulf consumers.
Looking ahead, ElAnsari expressed enthusiasm about Trendyol’s plans to deepen its market presence, further support local SMEs, and enhance customer experience through investments in AI-powered logistics and predictive analytics. These initiatives are aimed not only at improving last-mile delivery but also at personalising the shopping experience, positioning Trendyol as a primary player in the Gulf’s evolving e-commerce landscape.
Source: Noah Wire Services



