Queen’s Supermarkets PLC, a subsidiary of MIDROC Investment Group, has announced a landmark franchise agreement with Carrefour, marking the arrival of the first international mass-distribution retail brand in Ethiopia. This partnership will transform the local retail landscape by introducing global operating standards and a modernized shopping experience to the Ethiopian market.

The agreement outlines a rapid transformation of the existing Queen’s Supermarkets network. The first rebranded Carrefour stores are scheduled to open in the first half of 2026. This initial phase is part of a broader expansion plan that targets the opening of 17 additional stores by 2028, building upon the 13 locations already in operation.

Jemal Ahmed, CEO of MIDROC Investment Group, stated that the partnership creates a vital link between local production and international standards. By utilizing a "farm-to-shelf" model, MIDROC plans to integrate its production of premium coffee, spices, and fresh produce into the Carrefour network, providing Ethiopian products with a gateway to global markets while ensuring local consumers have access to affordable, high-quality goods.

For Carrefour, this entry into Ethiopia is a significant step in its global expansion, following the brand's milestone of reaching 3,000 franchised stores worldwide in late 2025. Patrick Lasfargues, CEO of Carrefour International Partnership, noted that the collaboration with MIDROC—a conglomerate employing over 80,000 people—is essential for driving long-term retail growth in the region.

As one of the world’s leading food retailers with over 15,000 stores globally, Carrefour’s arrival is expected to bolster Ethiopia’s retail infrastructure and support national economic growth through improved logistics and sustainable supply chains.