BDC Holdings, a multi-million dollar group with interests in diverse service sectors, has launched its operations in the Middle East as part of its expansion strategy.

As a vote of confidence in the region's long-term business potential, BDC Holdings revealed that it has rolled out plans to expand its core businesses through a series of strategic vertical and horizontal integration of businesses across the retail, hospitality, communication, real estate and other service sectors.

The company seeks to address the varied and ever-so-changing demands of the region's retail and consumer sectors, said a top official.

Featuring a high-profile mix of stakeholders from the US, South East Asia and India, BDC Holdings has been founded by a Dubai-based entrepreneur, KS Ramakrishnan (Ram).

Companies operating under the umbrella of BDC Holdings include DigiPhoto Studio, DigiPhoto Entertainment Imaging, Al Maraya Retail Solutions, Alto Vista Realty and Latte & Lafter Café with two more specialty business chains in the wings in their maiden launch into Dubai.

Ram, CEO of BDC Holdings says: "The establishment of BDC Holdings helps us consolidate the inherent strengths of our diverse businesses and will enable us to seize more exciting opportunities in the Middle East and globally."

"Moreover, we are confident about this region emerging as a global business hub in the long run. The Middle East not only gives us access to world markets and expatriate skills, but also greatly facilitates our vision of venturing further internationally," he noted.

"BDC Holdings will focus on providing great-value services to consumers, shifting focus from products to enhanced experiences," Ram added.

Starting with one company, Ram successfully expanded his business interests in Dubai, Singapore, Malaysia and Paris which is expected to open shortly, and boosted his workforce to over 400 people through an integration of businesses.

DigiPhoto Entertainment Imaging is a leading provider of souvenir imaging services particularly in the global landmarks of Dubai, Singapore, and Malaysia currently forms the core of BDC Holdings' portfolio, followed by the DigiPhoto a retail chain of digital imaging outlets in premium locations in Dubai.

A new DigiPhoto franchise featuring a novel digital professional photography concept will be launched soon.

Latte & Lafter serves as BDC Holdings' pioneering venture into hospitality, serving up delicious coffee and treats in an ambience of fun and relaxation around the Dubai Mall Ice Rink arena.

Alto Vista is a real estate enterprise offering a comprehensive range of realty services from projects management to property acquisitions and supported by Al Maraya Retail Solutions, a fully-integrated retail fabrication and solutions company specializing in commercial fit out projects.-TradeArabia News Service