As our society becomes increasingly health-conscious, well-being has emerged as a fundamental aspect of sustainable development. The focus for companies has shifed to addressing the holistic needs of individuals and communities, encompassing physical, mental, and emotional health.
As we see a continuing rise in global challenges like lifestyle diseases, environmental concerns, and mental health issues, companies that prioritise well-being are uniquely positioned to drive meaningful change. These organisations create value for their stakeholders while contributing to healthier societies and more sustainable futures. More than just an idealistic approach, there is science in why is wellness and health should be observed via a holistic lens, click here to find out more.
GMG: Redefining Itself as a Well-Being Company
In 2021, GMG reshaped its business strategy to ensure that it not only encompasses all its business groups but that it embraces its mission to improve lives through three key pillars: Active Living, Nutritious Food, and Good Health. This holistic approach underscores our vision of enhancing quality of life and contributing to a more balanced, healthier world.
Active Living: Promoting Health Through Movement
Our Active Living pillar is all about our dedication to inspiring healthier lifestyles. By partnering with renowned global sports brands such as Nike, Jordan or Columbia and operating over 450 stores worldwide, GMG empowers individuals to engage in physical activities, unlocking the mental and physical benefits of move GMG is committed to promoting active living through the establishment of GMG Sports Clubs. This initiative aims to encourage movement and a healthy lifestyle among employees. Currently, we have five clubs covering four sports: football, basketball, badminton, and cycling. As part of this program, GMG provides the necessary courts and equipment, while employees are encouraged to participate in regular sporting activities. The program offers over 450 hours of sports annually, benefiting approximately 800 employees.
In October 2024, GMG launched the Asia Fitness Initiatives to help promote employee well-being through various fitness activities across the region. The initiatives included a bowling and badminton tournament in Malaysia, yoga for de-stress in Hong Kong, participation in a charity run for cancer in Singapore, and Muay Thai sessions in Indonesia, encouraging a healthier and more active lifestyle.
Nutritious Food: Enabling Healthy Choices
When observing health, we can view it through a variety of lenses. Exploring health in one increasingly important area, particularly in the UAE, is Nutritional Health. By adopting a comprehensive “farm-to-fork” approach, GMG ensures high-quality food options are readily available. Using our state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities, growing food retail network, and distribution of trusted international brands, we contribute to healthier eating habits in the communities we serve. Last year, as part of our Ramadan projects, GMG provided food samples worth over AED 70,000 to families in need, alongside 2,320 meals during the Ramadan months in the UAE, KSA, and Malaysia.
Good Health: A Holistic Approach to Wellness
Moving beyond fitness and nutrition, GMG’s Health and Beauty division broadens the scope of well-being. By offering products that range from vitamins and supplements to personal care and skin care, GMG caters to diverse health needs. This pillar reflects our commitment to enhancing overall wellness, ensuring people have access to products that help them feel and look their best.
Sustainability as a Foundation for Well-Being
GMG’s dedication to well-being extends beyond individual health to the planet’s health. Through its Sustainability Strategy Framework, the company addresses environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. Its “Planet Forward” initiative focuses on reducing waste, conserving energy, and promoting recycling, while the “Inspire People” pillar emphasises workplace equality, diversity, and employee health. These initiatives reflect GMG’s belief that true well-being encompasses people and the environment alike. In 2024, GMG’s environmental initiatives have achieved notable results. For instance, a water station at the Al Qudra cycle track, part of the Dubai Can initiative, has helped eliminate nearly 295,000 plastic bottles. Additionally, company-wide sustainability measures have been implemented, including the replacement of 35,000 square meters of plastic tape with paper alternatives and the installation of water filters in the office, which has saved over 415,000 plastic bottles.
A Future Built on Well-Being
It doesn’t stop here. As GMG continues to grow, our commitment to well-being remains at the core of its mission. By promoting active lifestyles, enabling nutritious food choices, and ensuring holistic health, as a company, we set a benchmark for what it means to be a well-being company. In doing so, GMG is not just building a successful business but also fostering a healthier, more sustainable world for generations to come.