STO People’s Choice Opens New Hulhumalé Outlet Ahead of Ramadan

The State Trading Organization (STO) has opened a new People’s Choice outlet in Hulhumalé Phase 1, strengthening retail access for residents and supporting the availability of essential goods ahead of the upcoming Ramadan period.

The outlet, located at Rain Coral Residence on Reethigas Magu, was officially inaugurated last night by the Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Mohamed Saeed. The opening marks STO’s first dedicated People’s Choice retail store in Hulhumalé Phase 1, reflecting the company’s continued efforts to improve convenience and service coverage in rapidly growing residential areas.

According to STO media official, the decision to establish the retail outlet was driven by significant public demand from Hulhumalé residents. The media official further explained that the store has been integrated into STO’s broader service network, allowing orders placed through Malé to be fulfilled via the Hulhumalé branch, enhancing accessibility and operational efficiency.

According to STO, the new outlet will stock 23 varieties of essential commodities and staple food items to meet everyday household needs. In addition to groceries, the branch will offer a range of electronics and home appliances similar to those available at the People’s Choice flagship store in Malé, including products from internationally recognised brands such as Hitachi, Philips and LG.

While this marks the introduction of a dedicated retail outlet in Hulhumalé Phase 1, STO already operates a wholesale centre in the Hulhumalé industrial zone that supports bulk supply and distribution.

STO's Managing Director Shimad also reassured the public that STO has made comprehensive arrangements to ensure the consistent availability of essential food items and maintain price stability throughout Ramadan, a period that typically sees increased consumer demand across the Maldives.