Starbucks Achieves First LEED Platinum Certification

in GCC

STELLA McCARTNEY CELEBRATES RAMADAN WITH ‘EMERALD CAPSULE’

Adding another important milestone to a long list of achievements under Alshaya's partnership with Starbucks. The Starbucks store at KAFD, Riyadh has become one of the first few Food & Beverage stores in the GCC region to attain this prestigious accolade. Alshaya Group and Starbucks have achieved an historic milestone with KAFD Starbucks becoming one of only six stores globally to achieve LEED Platinum certification by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC).

Having scored 81 points, the store is also recognised as being the third LEED platinum interior design and construction (ID +C) retail store in the GCC, making it one of the greenest cafés in the GCC.

The award-winning store was recognised for incorporating ecofriendly materials including recycled terrazzo and local marble, to create natural patterns throughout the store interiors. It also includes a biophilic design with a collection of green walls, natural trees and planters that provide a sense of calm and relaxation to customers. The store also scores well on the use of water-efficient indoor fixtures, the elimination of CFCs, energy modelling compliance, the use of energy-efficient equipment and lighting fixtures, and the use of chilled water from the base building using compliant refrigerant.

Commenting on this distinguished achievement, Andy Holmes, President of Alshaya Starbucks said: “This is a prestigious recognition for us as sustainability is at the core of our business. Earning this important certification demonstrates our tremendous green building leadership and is another testimony of how we act to adopt sustainably best practices at every stage of our processes. The Starbucks store in KAFD is a prime example of how innovative work can create local solutions that contribute to making a global difference.

“Sustainability is a key element of our approach to design at Starbucks. Our teams have worked hard to design, construct, and operate our stores to meet LEED requirements on a global scale, as we continue to push the envelope of what our stores can be in the future. I am proud of this recognition, and I would like to thank all of those who have made it possible.” further commented Andy

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), developed by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC), is the most widely used green building rating system in the world and an international symbol of excellence. Through design, construction and operations practices that improve environmental and human health, LEED-certified buildings help make the world more sustainable. LEED certification is awarded for implementing practical and measurable strategies and solutions in areas including sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection, and indoor environmental quality.

Stella McCartney has launched its Emerald Capsule, a limitededition gifting edit celebrating Ramadan and Eid. Honoring the significance of the colour green in Islam as a symbol of life, paradise and nature, the verdant wardrobe includes readyto-wear and vegan accessories inspired by the Summer 2023 collection. Among them are crystalline takes on the iconic Falabella mini shoulder bag and kitten heel mule, a floral head scarf, cape and double-satin dress inspired by a custom piece created for Catherine, Princess of Wales. The timeless dress features a modest length and puff sleeves, with draping across the bodice and a belted waist – crafted from forest-friendly viscose in evergreen, using wood pulp from sustainably managed forests. This is complemented by a compact crepe cape with satin bindings, also cut from forest-friendly viscose. A head scarf celebrates both the occasion and Mother Earth, with an emerald floral print inspired by blooms from Stella’s own garden, originally featured as part of the Autumn 2022 collection.

With Ramadan on the way, the Middle East is gearing up for a celebratory special month, and what better way to dedicate to the spirit of this time than for Shoemart to launch a stylish and modern collection for men, women, and children to wear during Iftar, Suhoor and Eid celebrations.

Marriott Executive Apartments Celebrated Official Opening and Announces its Debut in Kuwait

With a grand opening ceremony on Monday 20th of March, Marriott Executive Apartments, part of Marriott Bonvoy's portfolio of 30 leading brands, has announced its debut in Kuwait with the opening of the first Marriott Executive Apartments in Kuwait City owned by Assima Real Estate Company, a company wholly owned by Salhia Real Estate Company, the elevated serviced apartments answer the rapidly growing demand for longer-stay accommodations that offer a sophisticated experience with amenities and services that mirror the comforts of home.

A stunning evening filled with elegance and entertainment was enjoyed by over 150 government and industry officials, executives of Kuwait's top corporations, and media figures in addition to social media famous bloggers, and influencers.

Following the arrival of Salhia Real Estate Company's

Chairman of the Board of Directors, Mr. Ghazi Fahad Alnafisi accompanied by the company's Board members, the ribbon-cutting ceremony began. A warm welcome speech was then given by Andreas Wissdorf, the Multi-Property General Manager. Guests enjoyed live saxophone music, a variety of mocktails, and delicious canapés prepared by ARRAYA catering master chefs.