Majid Al Futtaim takes over Shoprite Uganda

Majid Al Futtaim has announced it has concluded an agreement with Shoprite Checkers Uganda Limited to see the transfer of Shoprite’s six Uganda store leases to Majid Al Futtaim by end of year.

Majid Al Futtaim currently operates two stores in Uganda, under the banner of Carrefour. Following the implementation of the agreement, Majid Al Futtaim will expand its footprint to eight Carrefour stores.

“We welcome the opportunity to bring our unique Carrefour offering of unbeatable value, range, international standards to more customers across Uganda,” commented Hani Weiss, CEO at Majid Al Futtaim Retail.

“Majid Al Futtaim is fully committed to creating great moments for the communities we serve for the long-term.  This agreement represents our continued investment in East Africa. We look forward to strengthening our offering in the region and supporting local talent through employment and career development opportunities.”

Majid Al Futtaim launched its first Carrefour store in Uganda in December 2019 in Kampala’s Oasis Mall, and in March 2021 opened its second store in Naalya. It currently provides 20,000 products across its stores, of which 98% are locally sourced.  Customers are also able to order products online through partnerships with Glovo and Jumia Food.

Both parties will work closely together to ensure a smooth transition of the stores and its operations.  The six stores are located in Acacia Mall, Village Mall, Victoria Mall, Lugogo Mall, Clock Tower, and Arena Mall. As part of the agreement, the Lugogo Mall and Clock Tower properties will also transfer to Majid Al Futtaim who remain committed to its local supply chain and now, new tenant partners.

Last month, the South Africa’s largest supermarket retailer on the African continent, Shoprite announced that it will close its business in Uganda and Madagascar.

“In line with the group’s non-South Africa review process, our operations in Madagascar and Uganda have been classified as discontinued,” Shoprite said in statement.

Since opening its first store in Uganda in 2000, the supermarket employs 300 Ugandans in its five branches, supporting local industries on top making sure that a percentage of all stock is sourced and produced right in Uganda.

With 17 Brands in 14 Countries, 2387 Corporate Stores and 505 Franchise Outlets, Shoprite has been offering a world-class shopping experience on a variety of food products, household goods and small appliances at lowest possible prices.