Jarir Marketing [4190.SE] expects single-digit revenue growth in 2018, after a double-digit pace this year, said the company’s Chairman Muhammad Al Agil, taking into account the likely impact of implementing the 5% value-added tax (VAT) in the GCC. In 2017, the company managed to increase its market share to 20% from 15% as it benefitted from the closure of small mobile retailers that failed to meet the government’s Saudisation requirements, he added. Regarding expansions, Jarir is looking to open six to seven new stores in the region next year and another five to seven in 2019. Although the focus remains on Saudi Arabia, the company plans to grow in Kuwait, the UAE and Bahrain. It is also doing feasibility studies to expand outside the Gulf region, with Egypt being one of the countries it might target. With over 4,000 employees currently, the company plans to hire 400 new employees (including 300 Saudis) in 2018.