Saudi’s Al Watania Poultry signs MOU with Kantar

UAE – Al Watania Poultry is formalizing a partnership with Kantar, a global market research firm, through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed at the Gulfood Exhibition 2025 in Dubai.

The agreement aims to enhance Al Watania’s market position by leveraging data-driven insights, consumer behavior analysis, and industry research.

Company representatives say this collaboration aligns with efforts to adapt to shifting market demands and strengthen its role in Saudi Arabia’s food security.

This development follows reports from late last year indicating that Al Watania Poultry is considering a potential sale.

Sources familiar with the matter revealed that the company has hired BSF Capital to assess possible options for its future.

The Qassim-based company produces over one million chickens and 1.5 million eggs per day, according to its official website.

Founded in 1977 by Sheikh Suleiman Al Rajhi, the company employs more than 7,500 people and holds approximately 30% of Saudi Arabia’s poultry market.

Beyond its domestic presence, Al Watania Poultry has expanded its reach across the Gulf region, where it controls around 40% of the market.

The company’s operations cover 200 square kilometers, encompassing production sites, technical facilities, and residential areas for workers.

Al Watania follows Islamic dietary laws in its production process and was among the first poultry producers in the Middle East to secure ISO certification for quality management.

It currently holds certifications such as ISO 9001-2000, HACCP, and SQF 2000, reflecting compliance with international food safety standards.

Business Expansion and Sale Considerations

In recent years, Al Watania Poultry has continued to invest in infrastructure despite uncertainty over its long-term ownership.

Nine years ago, the company explored the possibility of listing on the Saudi stock exchange, though the plan did not materialize.

More recently, it inaugurated a modern cooling facility designed to improve efficiency and production capacity.

While discussions about a potential sale continue, the company remains a key player in Saudi Arabia’s poultry industry and the broader regional market.

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