Anil Pagarani

Co-Founder & Managing Director @ YFT Group

About

Anil Pagarani is a second-generation entrepreneur and business leader at YFT Group, a Dubai-based family enterprise originally founded in 1987 as Yellow Flower Trading. Born in Freetown, Sierra Leone, he was exposed to international trade and entrepreneurship early on, later taking on a leadership role in expanding the family business beyond its original retail foundations Under his leadership, YFT grew its presence across the UAE and the wider Middle East through retail stores in major destinations such as Dubai Mall, Dubai Hills Mall, and City Centre Mirdif. The group built strong partnerships around globally recognized trademarks including Disney, FIFA, and Marvel, while also launching its own in-house apparel brand, Cottny. Anil focused on strengthening the group’s capabilities across merchandising, distribution, and retail operations while building long-term brand partnerships in the region During the COVID-19 period, he mobilized the company’s sourcing and supply network to provide face masks and medical supplies when demand surged. As the business evolved, Anil also supported the group’s expansion into new areas including real estate ventures, food and beverage concepts, and other emerging opportunities, continuing to position YFT as a diversified family enterprise built on long-term relationships and regional market expertise

Country

City

United Arab Emirates

Industry

Apparel & Fashion

Skill

Wholesale Operations, Retail Marketing, Apparel Sourcing, Apparel, Fashion Buying, Product Development, Wholesale, Retail Buying, Trend Analysis, Distribution, Wholesale Purchasing, Group Buying, Administartion

Experience

Co-Founder & Managing Director

YFT Group

1989-7 - Present · 37 yrs 3 mos

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Founded in 1987 and headquartered in Dubai, YFT Group (formerly Yellow Flower Trading Co LLC) is a family-owned business built on nearly four decades of entrepreneurship, trade, and long-term partnerships across the Middle East. What began as a fashion and apparel trading company has evolved into a diversified group with activities spanning retail, merchandising, real estate, and strategic investments. From its earliest days, the company focused on bringing quality international brands and products to regional markets while building a reputation for reliability, operational excellence, and long-term business relationships As the business matured, the group expanded beyond its original focus in fashion into new areas aligned with long-term regional growth. Today, YFT Group is active across consumer retail, lifestyle businesses, and real estate ventures, including property investments and development initiatives across the UAE. The group continues to explore new partnerships and opportunities that connect global brands, emerging consumer trends, and regional markets Now guided by the third generation of the founding family, YFT Group continues to build on its legacy while adapting to new market opportunities. With a foundation rooted in trust, consistency, and long-term thinking, the group remains committed to developing businesses that create lasting value while quietly shaping the commercial landscape of the region

Co-Founder

Readymade Garments Merchant Group

2014-6 - Present · 12 yrs 4 mos

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

The Readymade Garments Merchant Group is a business association representing merchants and distributors involved in the ready-made garments trade across the UAE. The group serves as a platform for industry members to collaborate, share market insights, and collectively address challenges affecting the garments and apparel sector. It plays an advisory role within the community by supporting merchants with guidance on sourcing, distribution, regulatory changes, and evolving market trends. The group also facilitates dialogue between traders, suppliers, and local authorities to help strengthen the ecosystem for apparel businesses operating in the region Through regular engagement and coordination among its members, the Readymade Garments Merchant Group aims to support the continued growth, professionalism, and sustainability of the garments trade within Dubai and the wider UAE