Ahsen Mehmood, CEO of Charcoal, Shares Retail Insights with MS Supply Chain and Retail Management Students

Students enrolled in the Retailing Strategy and Operations course, part of the MS Supply Chain and Retail Management program at the Suleman Dawood School of Business (SDSB), attended an insightful guest speaker session led by Mr. Ahsen Mehmood, Founder and CEO of Charcoal, on April 5, 2025.

Mr. Mehmood shared his entrepreneurial journey—from early professional experiences to establishing Charcoal as a prominent nationwide retail brand. He discussed the evolution of Pakistan’s retail landscape and the strategies brands must adopt to remain competitive in an increasingly dynamic and consumer-driven market.

The session explored key themes such as retail brand positioning, store operations, customer experience, and the impact of market trends on strategic decision-making. Mr. Mehmood offered practical insights into navigating supply chain challenges, adapting to changing consumer behaviours and leveraging innovation to sustain brand growth.

He also highlighted the importance of agility in retail operations, particularly in inventory management, demand forecasting, and managing retail formats across diverse markets in Pakistan. His experience underscored how resilience, adaptability, and customer-centric thinking drive long-term success in the retail sector.

The interactive discussion allowed students to ask questions about entrepreneurship, brand building, and operational strategy. They gained a deeper appreciation of how theoretical models translate into real-world decisions and the complexities of managing a modern retail enterprise.

The session served as a valuable bridge between classroom learning and industry practice, equipping students with relevant perspectives to navigate the future of retail and supply chain management in Pakistan.