Majid Al Futtaim Continues Regional Expansion with Launch of First Carrefour Hypermarket in Kazakhstan

Dubai, UAE, and Almaty, Kazakhstan: Majid Al Futtaim Retail, the retail arm of Majid Al Futtaim, the leading shopping mall, retail and leisure pioneer across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), has today announced the opening of its first Carrefour hypermarket in Almaty, Kazakhstan, in line with the company’s rapid expansion across the Middle East, Central Asia, Africa and Russia.

The retail group holds exclusive rights to the Carrefour franchise in 38 markets across the region, and operates a portfolio of more than 70 hypermarkets and 90 supermarkets in now 14 countries. Majid Al Futtaim Retail has previously established Carrefour in Georgia in 2012 and in Armenia in 2014.

The new hypermarket, with a total sales area of 8,200 sq m, is located in Almaty’s Grand Park Mall and offers more than 30,000 items, including the widest choice of fresh produce and groceries, home appliances, sporting goods and leisure equipment, as well as textile products.

Eric Legros, CEO, Majid Al Futtaim Retail, said: “The opening of our first outlet in Kazakhstan marks a major milestone for Majid Al Futtaim, as we mark another milestone in our regional growth.

“Kazakhstan is a significant long-term growth market for us, and the new Carrefour Grand Park marks the beginning of a significant AED 52m  investment programme that will deliver two additional projects in Almaty and Astana, further strengthening our commitment to the country.”

In line with Majid Al Futtaim’s commitment to support local communities, the new Carrefour Grand Park store is expected to bring a range of economic benefits to Kazakhstan and has already provided employment to more than 450 people. It is expected to create an additional 150 direct and indirect jobs in Almaty, including 50 local management positions.

The hypermarket is also already working with more than 500 suppliers from Almaty and 20 suppliers from different regions of Kazakhstan, including 130 local manufacturers, producers, and farmers.

As one of the most recognised household brands in the world, Carrefour has introduced international standards and best practices to the retail sector in Kazakhstan. These include new customer service standards, a more sophisticated shopping experience, and best practice in-store hygiene processes.

“We are committed to creating great moments for everyone, everyday, and benefiting the local economy is a key aspect of this commitment,” added Legros. “We are already seeing these benefits through job creation and support for local producers. With that in mind, we are very excited about improving customer experiences and delivering the best value for money to consumers in Almaty and beyond.”