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by Rana Ballout February 1, 2006

written by Rana Ballout February 1, 2006

In 2005, the Virgin Megastore found itself in the middle of a revolution. As a result of the store’s location in the heart of Martyrs Square the international brand became associated with a series of demonstrations that changed the history of Lebanon. This may be more than the brand’s founder Sir Richard Branson bargained for when he helped open its doors to the Lebanese public in July 2001. It was certainly more than Lebanese franchisee and CEO Jihad Murr expected when he awoke on February 14, 2005 to what was to become an 11-month headache. “The assassination of former prime minister Rafik Hariri and more specifically the events that followed from the closure of Martyr’s Square for demonstrations to the ensuing assassinations dealt us a heavy blow,” he admits wearily. The popular one-stop-multimedia-shop, which at that point represented up to 70% of the company’s overall sales, became a watering hole

Rana Ballout

Lived on three continents - Europe, North America and Asia - and gained extensive cultural experience from each. An aficionado of words, my passion for writing is matched only by my love of reading and the art of communications. Very knowledgeable in the creation and launch of magazine concepts, I am particularly adept at reporting, creative copy writing, branded content and speech writing. Currently seeking a new and challenging experience as a Senior Communications of Editorial Specialist, demonstrating my professional, managerial and creative expertise while acquiring and developing new skills and competencies, preferably with a leading multinational or regional group.

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Brand Revolution
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