New $8m development signals growth plans for Al Hamd Smart Living

Al Hamd Smart Living has taken another significant step in its growth journey with the commencement of construction on a new $8 million commercial development in Nadi.

Owned by Unifurn Investments Limited, the project is expected to become the future head office, central warehouse and flagship retail showroom for Al Hamd Smart Living, providing the infrastructure needed to support the company's continued expansion across Fiji.

Al Hamd Smart Living is one of Fiji's leading suppliers of office furniture, school furniture, prefabricated homes, modular offices and home décor solutions.

The development, spanning approximately 2500 square metres across two levels, represents one of the largest investments undertaken by the company since its establishment. The project reflects confidence in Fiji's economic future despite ongoing global challenges.

Speaking during the foundation-laying ceremony, founder of Al Hamd Smart Living and managing director of Unifurn Investments Limited, Ashfaaq Ahmad Khan, said the project represented more than just a commercial building.

“This development is a reflection of our journey, our values and our vision for the future. It represents the trust our customers have placed in us over the years and our commitment to continuously improving the way we serve them,” he said.

“Our goal has always been to provide quality products, reliable service and innovative solutions that help businesses, organisations and families create better spaces. This investment allows us to build the infrastructure needed to support the next phase of our growth.”

Built on trust and integrity

The company's story began in 1998 when the late Azmatullah Khan established Unifurn Investments Limited.

Through hard work, honesty and dedication to customer service, he laid the foundation for a business that would grow into one of Fiji's most recognised enterprises.

Mr Khan paid tribute to his late father, whose vision continues to guide the company today.

“My father believed that business success is built on trust, integrity and serving people well. Those principles remain at the heart of everything we do and continue to guide our decisions as we grow,” he said.

Building on that foundation, Mr Khan later established Al Hamd Smart Living, transforming the business into a nationally recognised brand and expanding its product offerings to meet the changing needs of customers throughout Fiji.

Today, the company operates 10 branches nationwide and serves government institutions, schools, corporate organisations, construction companies and homeowners across the country.

Mr Khan also acknowledged the contribution of Shamshad Begum, a director of Unifurn Investments Limited, whose support and leadership have played a significant role in the company's growth.

“My mother, Shamshad Begum, has been the pillar of strength behind this business. Through her guidance, prayers, resilience and support, she has played a vital role in helping the business grow from its early years to where it stands today,” he said.

“Her belief in our vision and her leadership continue to inspire us every day.”

Mr Khan said the company's success had been made possible through the support of employees, customers, suppliers and business partners.

“We are deeply grateful to everyone who has been part of our success story. The trust our customers place in us motivates us to keep improving, innovating and investing in better products, better facilities and better service.”

Designed for future growth

The new Nadi development has been designed to support future growth while enhancing operational efficiency and customer experience.

Upon completion, the facility will bring warehousing, logistics, retail operations and administrative functions together under one modern complex.

“As demand for our products and services continues to grow, it is important that we invest in facilities that allow us to operate more efficiently and serve our customers at an even higher standard,” Mr Khan said.

“This project positions us well for future growth and reinforces our commitment to remaining a market leader in our industry.”

Construction is being undertaken by Al Furqan Development, which has been appointed as the project's contractor.

Mr Khan said the company remained optimistic about the future and continued to explore expansion opportunities throughout Fiji.

“While this development is a major milestone for us, it is only one part of our long-term vision,” he said.

“We continue to assess opportunities for future commercial developments, including within the Suva-Nausori corridor, as we seek to strengthen our presence and better serve customers in the Central Division and beyond.”

Boost for economy

President of the Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry Lawrence Kumar welcomed the investment and praised the confidence shown by local businesses.

“Projects such as this create employment opportunities, stimulate economic activity, strengthen supply chains and contribute directly to regional development. The continued growth of companies like Unifurn Investments is a positive sign for the business community and the wider economy,” Mr Kumar said.

Business leader Iqbal Khan, director of Nippon Autoparts & Tyre Centre Ltd and Iqbal Investment, also congratulated the company's directors.

“This investment reflects vision, commitment and confidence in Fiji's future. At a time when businesses around the world continue to face economic challenges and rising costs, this development demonstrates strong leadership and a clear focus on long-term growth,” he said.