Carrefour, the French multinational retail corporation, is preparing to open its first stores in Addis Ababa within two weeks. The launch comes as the rebranding of Queens Supermarket branches, owned by MIDROC Investment Group, moves forward rapidly.
The expansion follows a franchise and supply agreement signed in January between Carrefour and Queens Supermarket. Sources indicate that 15 Queens Supermarket locations across Addis Ababa, Adama, Dessie, and other cities are currently being converted to the Carrefour brand. Renovation work has been observed at entrances, exits, and other interior and exterior areas of several branches.
New Store Construction
In addition to the rebranding of existing supermarkets, three new Carrefour stores are under construction in Addis Ababa. The planned locations are at Piazza Arada Mall, Millennium Hall in Bole, and Mohammedia Village in Sarbet.
MIDROC has stated its intention to expand the Carrefour network to 31 supermarkets by the United Nations Climate Change Conference COP32. The company is currently hosting "MIDROC Week" at Meskel Square, where it has announced the availability of Carrefour products to consumers.
Market Entry and Export Potential
Carrefour's entry into Ethiopia was first announced in January 2026 as part of its partnership with MIDROC Investment Group. Beyond retail operations, the partnership is expected to facilitate the entry of Ethiopian products, including coffee, tea, spices, flowers, and fresh fruit, into Carrefour's global retail network.
Carrefour operates over 15,000 stores in more than 40 countries and reported sales exceeding €91 billion in 2025. The company already has a presence in several African markets, including Kenya and Uganda.
For Ethiopia's retail sector, the arrival of a major international brand signals increased competition and potential modernization of the supermarket experience. The partnership could also create new export channels for Ethiopian agricultural products through Carrefour's global supply chain.
ABAYB1300.28
AWAB2355.41
BOAX1704.41
GDAB1000
SIDAX1300
TELE430.86
WGBX1151
