For the past couple of years, Hyderabad’s House of Happiness (HOH) has been the go-to destination for those seeking imported chocolates, chips, juices, and unique treats. A visit to HOH once promised shelves packed with global favorites, allowing customers to indulge in exclusive products not easily found elsewhere. But today, the store looks different.
The bustling store once filled to the brim with global brands now holds significantly emptier shelves, a visual testament to owner Ameen Mirza’s decision to respond to shifting consumer demands and values. As the conflict in Gaza stirred a call for boycott worldwide, Ameen observed a shift in consumer sentiment. “Since October 2023, around 40% of our customers are actively boycotting certain brands,” he says.
This consumer trend has altered his sourcing choices. Previously, he collaborated with both Middle Eastern and European distributors to stock a diverse array of international products. Now, he has streamlined his focus solely on Middle Eastern suppliers, allowing him to maintain a selection of beloved chocolates while upholding this ethical stance.
“Consumer boycotts, coupled with my own conscience, shaped this decision,” Ameen shared. “I realized that my business needed to reflect values that resonate with our community, and this went beyond just offering popular products.” Among the popular items now available at House of Happiiness are Snickers, Bounty, KitKat, Twix, and Galaxy, all sourced from Middle .
