Malabar Gold & Diamonds, the world's fifth largest jewellery retailer, has opened its first showroom in New Zealand as part of a USD $75 million expansion programme, with further outlets planned across Wellington, Hamilton and Christchurch.
The newest store, located in Auckland's Botany Town Centre, is the 410th showroom for the brand globally and marks Malabar's entry into its 14th country of operation. The initial Auckland outlet will employ 22 staff, with the full New Zealand rollout expected to create over 80 new retail jobs.
The expansion follows the implementation of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between New Zealand and the United Arab Emirates earlier this year, which has enabled new trade and investment opportunities between the two countries. Malabar is headquartered in the UAE, having been founded in India in 1993, and operates a network encompassing more than 410 showrooms and 25,000 employees, with an annual turnover of USD $7.36 billion.
New market entry
The Auckland showroom was inaugurated by Hon Mark Mitchell, Minister of Corrections, Minister for Emergency Management and Recovery, Minister for Ethnic Communities, Minister of Police, and Minister for Sport and Recreation. He attended alongside Abdul Salam K.P, Vice Chairman of Malabar Group, Shamlal Ahamed, Managing Director of International Operations for Malabar Gold & Diamonds, and other New Zealand officials and company representatives.
Malabar Gold & Diamonds is recognised for offering a range of more than 30,000 unique pieces, spanning gold, diamond and gemstone jewellery, which merge traditional Indian craftsmanship with contemporary designs. The brand also operates a well-developed eCommerce platform in addition to its physical retail outlets.
Strategic vision
Malabar Group Chairman M.P Ahammed says: "From a single showroom in India to expanding into our 14th country of operations, Malabar Gold & Diamonds' global growth journey has taken a historic leap forward today. The legacy of trust, tradition and responsible craftsmanship that Malabar Gold & Diamonds brings to New Zealand will establish us as the preferred jewellery shopping destination in the market. This milestone is not just a win for our brand but a testament to the global recognition of centuries-old Indian jewellery artisanship. We see New Zealand as a land of immense opportunity and cultural synergy, and this launch marks the beginning of a long-term relationship with the market and its people."
Vice Chairman Abdul Salam K.P commented on the opening, highlighting its significance in the company's expansion plans: "Malabar Gold & Diamonds' entry into New Zealand marks a proud milestone in our global journey and brings us closer to our vision of becoming the world's No. 1 jewellery retailer. The Auckland launch was truly exceptional. The grand opening witnessed an unprecedented turnout and an overwhelming response from the local community. It was heartening to see people from diverse backgrounds appreciating the artistry, craftsmanship and heritage that define Malabar Gold & Diamonds. This achievement goes far beyond numbers; it reflects the emotional connection people share with our creations and the trust our brand continues to inspire. New Zealand has set a remarkable tone for the next phase of our international growth."
Shamlal Ahamed, Managing Director of International Operations, emphasised the importance of the New Zealand market for Malabar's international footprint and outlined future plans: "Malabar Gold & Diamonds is proud to expand into New Zealand, bringing our exquisite jewellery and exceptional services to an entirely new base of jewellery lovers. Beyond being our 14th country of operation, New Zealand and particularly Auckland represents a vibrant and growing market with a strong base of Indian sub-continent communities that deeply value both tradition and contemporary design. As one of the biggest proponents of the 'Make in India; Market to the World' initiative in the global jewellery arena, we remain committed to taking the rich legacy of Indian artistry to every corner of the world. We have already mapped out an ambitious growth plan for New Zealand with showroom openings planned across Wellington, Hamilton and Christchurch. In the broader Oceania region, we will also be opening more showrooms in Australia as well as expanding into Fiji. Today, we can truly say that the sun never sets on Malabar's global presence."
Community commitments
As part of its expansion, Malabar Gold & Diamonds will contribute five percent of local profits to community initiatives in New Zealand, supporting causes such as health, housing, hunger eradication, education and environmental preservation. This forms part of the group's Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) commitments. Globally, Malabar supports more than 70,000 meals daily, operates over 700 micro learning centres for underprivileged children, and provides scholarships and housing projects for those in need.
Shamlal Ahamed said: "New Zealand is a market brimming with potential, offering us an opportunity to connect with a diverse customer base that appreciates both tradition and contemporary design. With the UAE as our international base, the CEPA agreement has made it easier to bring our brand and its heritage to New Zealand. We believe this is the beginning of a long and prosperous partnership."
He also noted that every purchase at Malabar Gold & Diamonds in New Zealand is protected by the "Malabar Promise", which includes 100% value on diamond and gold exchange, guaranteed buyback, hallmarked jewellery, lifetime maintenance and the exclusive use of tested and certified natural diamonds.
