Dubai-based lifestyle group targets Carrefour store for Kampala

June 20, 2019 in Business, Companies, Investment, Markets by Editor

Majid A Futtaim owns the franchise of the proposed store opening at Qasis Mall in Kampala, in the space formerly occupied by Nakumatt.

June 20—Majid Al Futtaim, the Dubai-based lifestyle holding company, who own the Carrefour franchise across Middle East, Africa and Asia, will soon open a store at Qasis Mall in Kampala, in the space formerly occupied by Nakumatt, the financially troubled Kenyan supermarket chain.

Since 2016, seven Carrefour stores have opened in Kenya, but the Majid Al Futtaim operates over 270 Carrefour stores, serving more than 750,000 customers daily and employing over 37,000 people.

“Following Carrefour’s success in Kenya, we are proud to introduce our plan for the first ever Carrefour stores in Uganda, which will further cement our position as a leading customer-centric retailer, bringing one of the largest retail chains in the world to the heart of the country,” Hani Weiss, CEO of Majid Al Futtaim – Retail said in mid-week.

In 1995 Majid Al Futtaim partnered with the French multinational retailer in order to introduce the brand outside Europe. Majid Al Futtaim is now the leading shopping mall, communities, retail and leisure developer across the southern hemisphere.

In entering the Ugandan market, Majid Al Futtaim wants to cater for evolving customer needs and respond to the growing demand for modern retail outlets in Kampala and its surroundings.

Weiss said, “This announcement brings us a step closer towards realizing our long-term expansion plan for East Africa. Uganda is considered one of the fastest growing economies in Africa, and we are delighted to partner with local stakeholders to offer a world-class retail experience to the Ugandan community, specifically tailored to their needs.”

A second store is scheduled to open in early 2020 at Metroplex Kampala, creating up to 150 additional direct and indirect employment opportunities.

Majid Al Futtaim prides itself in upholding the highest international standards and best practices. This includes ensuring positive supplier relations through prioritising local partners, enhancing supplier efficiency and engaging them with continuous training and support.