October 28 2024  |  People

Ghirardelli appoints Mohammed Aldahabi to lead GTR expansion

By Laura Shirk


Mohammed Aldahabi, Senior Sales Manager, Global Travel Retail, Ghirardelli

Premium American chocolate company, Ghirardelli, has announced the appointment of Mohammed Aldahabi as Senior Sales Manager, Global Travel Retail, to lead the company’s expansion in the channel exclusively outside of the US home market. This appointment marks a significant step in Ghirardelli’s strategic growth roadmap, focusing on high growth channels and premium visibility exclusively within travel retail as the company aims to reach US$1 billion in revenue by 2027.

With over 17 years of experience in travel retail, Mohammed Aldahabi has a strong track record of driving growth by building strategic partnerships and developing new business opportunities. His diverse career spans both the retail and brand sides, having worked across multiple regions. Prior to joining Ghirardelli, Mohammed held sales roles at Lindt GTR, where he was responsible for repositioning the brand in North American travel retail and leading travel retail sales growth in the MEIA region.

Commenting on Mohammed’s appointment, David Dulyx, Director of Sales at Ghirardelli Chocolate Company, said, “Our focus has been on developing growth channels, and global travel retail is a clear priority. We see this channel as an incredible opportunity to elevate Ghirardelli's premium visibility on the global stage. Mohammed’s appointment is a crucial part of our strategy to grow and strengthen our presence in a channel that is rich with opportunity. His expertise in both brand representation and buying makes him the perfect choice to lead this expansion and help us achieve our growth ambitions.”

With nearly 175 years of heritage, Ghirardelli has established itself as a leading American brand known for its premium quality chocolate. Ghirardelli’s strategy within travel retail will be to grow sustainably by developing physical availability and building strong partnerships, while continuously adapting its offer to align with market trends and customer feedback. The company will introduce seven SKUs in two formats, featuring best sellers from its home travel retail market, now set to make their debut on the global travel retail stage. The brand will also invest in a range of activation concepts and channel-specific POS materials to create a stronger brand experience in key airports.

Mohammed Aldahabi added, “I'm excited to join Ghirardelli and make the travel retail sector a bite better. The confectionery category is ripe with potential, and Ghirardelli brings a unique proposition that stands out. We can offer the excitement of a new brand in travel retail combined with the rich heritage and quality credentials of an established American icon. Ghirardelli's premium chocolates represent a legacy of quality and craftsmanship that resonates with travellers seeking indulgent experiences. Our visibility in the US market, combined with our commitment to sustainability and innovation, makes Ghirardelli a must-have for retailers looking to enhance their confectionery offerings.”

According to Aldahabi, "the confectionery category is ripe with potential, and Ghirardelli brings a unique proposition that stands out"

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