Saleh Fareed

Saudi Gazette



JEDDAH – US Consul General in Jeddah Anne Casper inaugurated on Tuesday the American Products Week at Manuel hypermarket amid a large gathering of shoppers, well-wishers and the hypermarket’s management.



Consul General Casper expressed her pleasure at opening an event that showcases some of the finest products from the United States. Touring the supermarket’s branch at Stars Avenue mall, the Consul General was accompanied by Executive Director & Deputy Chairman of the Board at Manuel hypermarket Khalid Darwish, Commercial Consul Charles Ranado, Senior Commercial Specialist Wasif Shah, and Media Affairs Officer Renee Ragin.



The Consul General said “American Products Week 2014 is part of Manuel Hypermarket’s initiative to enable Americans, Saudis and other nationalities in Jeddah to enjoy many of American products that they have enjoyed in the USA.”



The range and variety of delectable and diverse food products that will be on offer during American Products Week will showcase high-quality American foods. Moreover, many of these products also address the growing environmental and sustainability concerns of customers.



Speaking to Saudi Gazette on the sidelines of the official ceremony, the Consul General said “we are very excited to be here at the opening of the American Products Week. It is an opportunity for Saudi shoppers to buy high quality products of famous American brands.”



Regarding the bilateral economic relations between the United States and Saudi Arabia, she said “both countries enjoy a strong trade relationship, as Saudi Arabia is the United States’ largest trading partner in the Middle East.”

She further said “our relationship is more than just trade, it is a partnership. In addition to robust trade and investment, we are also seeing increased travel from Saudi Arabia to the United States, whether for tourism, business, education, or medical treatment.”



Talking about her social activities in Jeddah, she said “Jeddah is a beautiful city and I have been enjoying my stay here, especially as I have had the opportunity to experience the real generosity and kindness of the people of Jeddah.”



Meanwhile, Commercial Consul Charles Ranado noted that from October 2012 to October 2013, the United States exported around $735 million in food products to Saud Arabia.



Khalid Darwish, Executive Director & Deputy Chairman of the Board at Manuel hypermarket, pointed out that the range and variety of food products that will be on offer during the festival period will showcase the high-quality of American products.



“Continuously, we bring the best of the world to our customers through providing the right products and I hope as many people as possible get to visit the American Products Week to acquaint themselves with the high-quality and large variety of delectable food products that are on display from all over the states of America,” he said.



The week-long fest runs until Jan. 13 and features American grocery, meat, dairy, delis, frozen foods, cereals, chocolate and bakery goods.