Aarong’s Dhanmondi Outlet Recognised as World’s Largest Craft Store by Guinness World Records

Bangladesh’s leading fashion and lifestyle brand Aarong has achieved global recognition as its flagship outlet in Dhanmondi was officially acknowledged by Guinness World Records as the world’s largest craft and artisanal retail store. The milestone highlights not only the brand’s rapid growth but also Bangladesh’s thriving craft industry and the contribution of thousands of rural artisans who produce handcrafted goods across the country.

The recognition places Aarong on the global retail map and underscores its long-standing mission of promoting traditional Bangladeshi craftsmanship while supporting rural livelihoods.

Guinness World Records Recognition

The Guinness World Records confirmed that Aarong’s Dhanmondi outlet in Dhaka holds the record for the largest craft and artisanal retail store, measuring 2,636 square metres of retail space. The record was officially recognised on 30 October 2025, several months after the store first opened to the public.

The flagship outlet itself opened on 7 March 2025 and quickly became a major retail and cultural landmark in the capital.

Located in one of Dhaka’s busiest commercial neighbourhoods, the store spans approximately 60,000 square feet across eight floors, making it the largest dedicated craft retail outlet anywhere in the world.

The massive store features hundreds of employees and showcases a wide range of handcrafted products created by artisans from across Bangladesh.

A Landmark Retail Destination in Dhaka

The Dhanmondi flagship outlet is designed to offer more than just a shopping experience. The building itself is considered a cultural and architectural showcase celebrating Bangladeshi heritage.

Visitors entering the store encounter several large-scale artistic installations highlighting traditional crafts. Among the most striking features is a four-storey Nakshi Kantha display, representing the centuries-old embroidery tradition of Bangladesh.

Another notable installation is a clay pottery wall, which showcases the craftsmanship of rural potters. The store also features a dramatic hanging installation known as “Alchemy,” created using copper and recycled glass materials.

These artistic elements transform the retail space into a cultural exhibition, allowing visitors to explore the story of Bangladesh’s craft heritage while shopping.

The outlet also includes multiple departments dedicated to fashion, accessories, home décor, jewellery, footwear, and children’s clothing.

A children’s section with a forest-themed play area has been designed to make the shopping experience family-friendly. Additionally, a restaurant called The Orange Parrot is located on the seventh floor, offering visitors a place to dine while enjoying views of the Dhanmondi area.

Aarong: A Social Enterprise with a Mission

Aarong is more than a retail brand as it is a social enterprise owned by BRAC, the world’s largest non-governmental organisation.

Founded in 1978, Aarong was created to provide rural artisans with a platform to sell their handcrafted products and gain sustainable income.

The brand was established by Ayesha Abed and Martha Chen with the goal of empowering disadvantaged communities, particularly women, through employment in traditional crafts.

Over the decades, Aarong has grown into one of Bangladesh’s most recognised lifestyle brands, selling clothing, jewellery, home décor, and handmade crafts.

Despite its commercial success, the company continues to operate under a social mission—supporting rural artisans and preserving Bangladesh’s traditional craft techniques.

Supporting Rural Artisans

One of Aarong’s most significant contributions to the economy is its support for rural artisans across Bangladesh.

The organisation works with tens of thousands of craftspeople, many of whom are women from rural communities. These artisans produce handwoven fabrics, embroidery, pottery, leather goods, jewellery, and other traditional products.

According to BRAC, more than 75,000 artisans are connected to Aarong’s supply network, receiving fair wages and training opportunities.

By providing market access for these artisans, Aarong has helped transform traditional crafts into sustainable sources of income for rural families.

The company’s production centres across Bangladesh also offer training programs that help artisans improve their skills and maintain the quality of traditional techniques.

Preserving Bangladesh’s Craft Heritage

Bangladesh has a long history of traditional crafts such as Nakshi Kantha embroidery, Jamdani weaving, terracotta pottery, and handloom textiles.

However, many of these crafts faced decline due to industrialisation and changing consumer preferences.

Aarong has played a major role in preserving these cultural traditions by bringing them into modern fashion and retail markets.

Through design innovation and product development, the brand has helped traditional crafts remain relevant for contemporary consumers.

The company collaborates with designers who reinterpret traditional patterns and materials into modern clothing and lifestyle products.

As a result, Aarong has become a bridge between rural artisans and urban consumers.

Expansion Across Bangladesh

Over the years, Aarong has expanded significantly beyond its original store in Dhaka.

As of recent years, the brand operates around 30 outlets across major Bangladeshi cities, including Chattogram, Sylhet, Rajshahi, and Khulna.

In addition to physical stores, Aarong has also invested in digital commerce.

The company launched its online shopping platform in 2014, enabling customers across Bangladesh to purchase products online and receive home delivery.

This digital expansion has helped the brand reach younger consumers and adapt to changing shopping habits.

A Symbol of Bangladesh’s Creative Economy

The Guinness World Records recognition for the Dhanmondi outlet reflects the growing importance of Bangladesh’s creative economy.

By combining traditional craftsmanship with modern retail design, Aarong has created a unique model that promotes both culture and commerce.

The flagship outlet serves not only as a shopping destination but also as a platform showcasing the creativity of Bangladeshi artisans.

It demonstrates how traditional skills can be integrated into contemporary industries while preserving cultural identity.

Looking Ahead

As Aarong continues to expand its retail presence and global reputation, the brand remains committed to its founding mission of empowering artisans and celebrating Bangladeshi heritage.

The recognition from Guinness World Records is a milestone that highlights the success of this approach.

For Bangladesh, the achievement represents more than a record, it reflects the resilience of traditional crafts and the creativity of the communities that sustain them.

With the world’s largest craft store now located in Dhaka, Aarong has once again placed Bangladesh’s rich artistic traditions firmly on the global stage.