# Shaping the Future of Retail: An Inside Look at Kawan Lama Group
Since its modest beginnings in 1955, Kawan Lama Group has evolved into a titan of the Indonesian retail and industrial landscape. What started as a family-led venture has transformed into the nation’s premier destination for lifestyle, home improvement, and commercial solutions. Today, the organization serves as the parent company to iconic household names, including ACE Hardware, Informa, Toys Kingdom, Bike Colony, Office 1 Superstore, and Pendopo.
## A Legacy of Growth and Excellence
The trajectory of Kawan Lama Group is defined by a commitment to quality and strategic expansion. By the 1980s, the second generation of the founding family formally established "PT Kawan Lama Sejahtera," setting the stage for a period of rapid development. Between 1982 and 1990, the group aggressively scaled its distribution network across the Indonesian archipelago, eventually pioneering the "one-stop shopping" concept at their landmark facility in Glodok Jaya.
Today, Kawan Lama Retail operates an expansive footprint with over 300 stores spanning 31 provinces. As the country's leading commercial and industrial provider, the group manages a massive inventory featuring more than 40,000 high-quality products sourced from 100 world-renowned brands.
## Launch Your Career: Merchandising Management Trainee (MMT)
Kawan Lama Group is currently seeking high-potential individuals to join their specialized Merchandising Management Trainee (MMT) program. This initiative is designed for analytical and innovative minds who aspire to become future leaders in either the Buyer or Space Management divisions.
Ideal Candidate Profile
To thrive in this role, applicants should meet the following criteria:
* Educational Background: A Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, International Business, Industrial Engineering, Mathematics, or Statistics.
* Experience: Between 1 to 2 years of professional experience, ideally within a merchandising environment. Exceptionally talented fresh graduates are also encouraged to apply.
* Communication Skills: Proficiency in English is mandatory; fluency in Mandarin is considered a significant competitive advantage.
* Core Competencies: Demonstrated strengths in project management, data analysis, and professional negotiation.
* Soft Skills: A proactive nature with a keen interest in expanding professional networks and building industry relationships.
Key Program Details
* Placement: Successful candidates will be based at the Kawan Lama Head Office in West Jakarta.
* Professional Development: Participants will undergo comprehensive training designed to cultivate expertise in retail strategy, inventory management, and market trend forecasting.
## Our Commitment to Integrity
Kawan Lama Group maintains a strict policy regarding the recruitment process. Please be advised that the company does not charge any fees to applicants at any stage of the registration or selection process. We are committed to a merit-based hiring approach and encourage all qualified candidates to apply through official channels only. Join our team and play a pivotal role in the ongoing success story of Indonesia’s retail leader.