Majid Al Futtaim, the exclusive operator of Carrefour stores in Kenya, has expanded its footprint in the country with the opening of a new store at Runda Mall in Nairobi. This marks Carrefour’s 25th outlet in Kenya and comes just a month after the launch of a store in Ruiru, underlining the retailer’s commitment to rapid expansion in the Kenyan market.
The new Carrefour store, located in the bustling Runda area, spans over 2,500 square meters and is stocked with an extensive range of products, including fresh produce, electronics, and daily essentials. In addition to offering a vast array of goods, Carrefour has introduced its innovative self-checkout service at this location, allowing customers to shop and complete transactions without assistance from cashiers. This self-checkout service is now available in five Carrefour stores across Nairobi, enhancing convenience for shoppers by reducing waiting times.
According to Christophe Orcet, Regional Director of East Africa at Majid Al Futtaim Retail, the Runda Mall store opening reflects Carrefour’s dedication to meeting the diverse needs of Kenyan consumers. “Our newest store at Runda Mall allows us to continue serving the diverse needs and preferences of our customers in the area while contributing to the country’s economic development through job creation and promotion of modern retail trade,” Orcet stated.
The Runda Mall store is expected to generate 46 new job opportunities, adding to Carrefour’s existing workforce of over 2,600 employees in Kenya, 99% of whom are Kenyan. Carrefour’s expansion in Kenya is not only focused on meeting consumer demands but also on supporting local employment and economic growth. By sourcing locally and collaborating with Kenyan suppliers and farmers, Carrefour has reinforced its commitment to Kenya’s economy, providing a valuable platform for local manufacturers, small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and farmers.
With 20 stores in Nairobi, three in Mombasa, and two in Kisumu, Carrefour has become one of Kenya’s leading retail brands. Its strategic location choices aim to serve both urban and suburban populations, bringing high-quality products and modern retail experiences closer to customers across the country.
Majid Al Futtaim’s partnership with local suppliers goes beyond just business—it represents a broader commitment to supporting Kenya’s agricultural sector and manufacturing industries. Carrefour’s shelves are stocked with products from Kenyan farmers, small manufacturers, and SMEs, fostering a market that values local produce and goods.
In a country where food security and economic sustainability are priorities, Carrefour’s collaboration with local farmers and suppliers has a positive impact on communities by ensuring a steady demand for locally-produced goods. This approach not only promotes food security but also empowers Kenyan businesses to grow and compete within the formal retail sector. Orcet emphasized this commitment, saying, “We are proud to expand our footprint in the country and continue collaborating with local suppliers and farmers to bring fresh, high-quality products to our customers every day.
The launch of Carrefour’s self-checkout service at the Runda Mall location marks a significant step towards transforming the shopping experience in Kenya. Self-checkout counters allow customers to scan, bag, and pay for their items independently, providing a faster and more efficient shopping experience. This feature aligns with Carrefour’s dedication to enhancing customer convenience and promoting a modern retail culture in Kenya.
The introduction of self-checkout services also reflects a broader trend of digital transformation in Kenya’s retail sector. As more Kenyans become accustomed to digital solutions in various aspects of their lives, retailers are responding by integrating technology into their operations. Carrefour’s commitment to digital innovation provides customers with a unique, efficient, and streamlined shopping experience that is rarely seen in other retail outlets across Kenya.
Since its entry into Kenya in 2016, Carrefour has demonstrated a strategic approach to expansion, opening stores in key locations across major cities to maximize its reach. Currently, 20 of Carrefour’s 25 stores are located in Nairobi, enabling the retailer to cater to the capital’s large and diverse customer base. The remaining stores are strategically positioned in Kisumu and Mombasa, ensuring Carrefour’s presence in Kenya’s coastal and lakeside regions.
The latest store in Runda Mall is part of Carrefour’s broader strategy to meet the rising demand for modern retail experiences among Kenyans. Carrefour stores offer a unique shopping experience characterized by clean, organized aisles, a variety of international and local products, and affordable prices. By consistently opening new stores, Carrefour aims to strengthen its brand presence and solidify its role as a trusted retail partner for Kenyan consumers.
Carrefour’s expansion has introduced more competition into Kenya’s retail industry, benefiting consumers through improved quality, competitive pricing, and a wider selection of products. The presence of Carrefour has also encouraged other retailers to upgrade their services and offer better shopping experiences, fostering a more dynamic and consumer-centric retail sector in Kenya.
Furthermore, Carrefour’s emphasis on job creation and support for local suppliers has a ripple effect on the economy. By working with hundreds of local suppliers, Carrefour not only provides a market for Kenyan products but also indirectly supports thousands of livelihoods across the country. The retailer’s commitment to hiring locally and collaborating with Kenyan farmers and businesses is a model that aligns with Kenya’s Vision 2030 goals, which prioritize economic growth and job creation through partnerships with private sector players.
Looking forward, Carrefour plans to continue its expansion within Kenya, with more store openings and innovations expected in the coming years. As it solidifies its position in the market, Carrefour aims to deepen its collaboration with local suppliers, provide customers with a seamless shopping experience, and contribute to Kenya’s economic growth.
Carrefour’s ongoing expansion is likely to set new benchmarks for the retail industry in Kenya, influencing other players to adopt modern retail practices and invest in technology that enhances customer experience. The Runda Mall store is an example of Carrefour’s customer-first approach, where convenience, affordability, and quality meet to create a rewarding shopping experience.
As Kenyan consumers increasingly seek convenience, variety, and value, Carrefour’s growth journey is well-positioned to meet these evolving needs. The retailer’s combination of product variety, customer-centric innovation, and commitment to local partnerships has made it a trusted brand in the Kenyan market.
The opening of Carrefour’s new store at Runda Mall is more than just an expansion of its physical footprint—it signifies the retailer’s commitment to Kenya’s economy, its people, and its future. By creating jobs, supporting local suppliers, and providing customers with convenient, technology-driven shopping options, Carrefour is transforming the retail experience in Kenya.
As Carrefour continues to expand, its focus on sustainability, local partnerships, and modern retail innovations promises to shape Kenya’s retail landscape in exciting ways. For shoppers, Carrefour represents a reliable source of quality products and an enjoyable shopping environment, contributing to the growth and modernization of Kenya’s retail sector.
