In Bahrain’s world of business and beauty, Moon Top Shop/Flormar Managing Director, Majeda Akhtarzadeh, has effectively blended her family’s entrepreneurial legacy with a passion for the cosmetics industry. She tells Farah Baig about continuing her father’s vision and how she is taking things forward with her granddaughter, the company’s Chief Operating Officer, Maryam Felaifel.
When asked about the biggest influence on her journey, Ms. Akhtarzadeh credits her father. “In the 1940s, he opened Moon Stores in Bab Al Bahrain, offering a variety of products from groceries to electronics with top agencies. His business quickly became known for its affordability and variety, appealing to both locals and expatriates,” she reminisces.
In 1966, he changed the face of Bahrain’s hospitality sector with the opening of its first hotel, Moon Plaza, followed by Moon Supermarket in Um Al Hassam.
Ms. Akhtarzadeh’s own passion for beauty led her to the cosmetics industry. “From a young age, I’ve always had an interest in beauty and creativity,” she says.
Her interest deepened after attending beauty exhibitions in Milan and France alongside her father, where she envisioned her dream. She opened her first business in 1979, Moon Top Shop, before introducing international products including Karaja, Bourjois, Margaret Astor and the Turkish brand Flormar, which is now the primary brand for the business.
Flormar has had a presence in Bahrain since 2003, expanding as part of its international growth and popularity in the Middle East. Its first retail store was opened in Enma Mall in 2013, followed by retail shops in Seef Mall Arad, Seef Mall Manama, Oasis Mall Juffair and Marassi Galleria.
Ms. Akhtarzadeh attributes Flormar’s grand success to its commitment to high-quality yet affordable products. “Its budget-friendly cosmetics appeal to all women, due to its excellent quality. Flormar’s high-quality formulations are effective and long-lasting. The brand also keeps up with the latest beauty trends, frequently updating its collections with trendy colours and innovative formulas that appeal to fashion-forward consumers,” she emphasises.
Whether you are looking for a natural touch or an evening glam look, Flormar has all the products every woman needs, including face, eyes, lips, nails, personal skin care as well as make up tools. One of her top recommended products is the brand’s cleansing milk.
“It’s a fantastic brand with a diverse range of beauty and cosmetic products for all age groups. Flormar’s products contain nourishing ingredients with natural vegan options to enhance your beauty and skincare routine,” she says.
Looking ahead, she sees tremendous potential for Flormar’s growth in Bahrain. “Flormar aims to expand its market share, increase brand recognition and build a loyal customer base through innovative marketing and high-quality products,” she says.
“My granddaughter, Maryam Felaifel, has been by my side as the company’s COO ensuring that the company’s operations align with its strategic vision and long-term success, where she will be honouring my father’s legacy with our vision for the future.”
Sharing words of wisdom for aspiring women, she says: “Passion and confidence is what will drive you through challenges and help you achieve your goals.”
