Rédaction Africa Links 24 with wissam.a
Published on 2024-02-23 14:28:54
In the Algerian commercial landscape, the announcement of Auchan’s arrival had created a certain excitement. Initially scheduled for the last quarter of 2023, the opening of the first hypermarket of the French chain in the Algerian capital is now announced as imminent. According to the latest information relayed by Jeune Afrique, this long-awaited expansion is now only delayed by the obtaining of two crucial authorizations.
Auchan, a giant in the retail industry, revealed its intention to establish itself in Algerian soil in May 2023, marking a strategic turning point in its international expansion policy. By partnering with the local group Great Way, Auchan has clearly stated its ambition to enter the Algerian market, promising the opening of its first hypermarket in the capital, followed by an expansion into other provinces of the country.
This move is part of Auchan’s broader strategy to strengthen its presence on the African continent, where despite an impressive growth rate of 22.1% in 2023.
Auchan in Algeria: when will it materialize?
Auchan’s establishment in Algeria is not limited to the opening of new retail locations. It reflects an ambitious vision, shared with the local partner, focused on 2 major pillars: offering a new shopping experience to Algerians, and contributing to local economic development by supporting Algerian agriculture and agri-food production.
While optimism is present, the opening of the first Auchan hypermarket in Algeria remains pending the obtaining of two essential authorizations. This necessary step highlights the regulatory and administrative challenges that foreign companies must face when seeking to invest in Algeria. However, Auchan’s management is confident, mentioning a matter of weeks before being able to realize its project.
While waiting for the final approvals, the Algerian market is preparing to welcome a new major player that could redefine shopping standards in Algeria.
Auchan already established in several African countries
With its arrival in Algeria, Auchan is expanding its presence to its 14th country in the world, thus consolidating its position in Africa. Already established in Senegal and Ivory Coast, the French retailer has 37 stores in Senegal, also offering online services such as drive-thru and home delivery, while in Ivory Coast, it has opened 13 stores in Abidjan and Bouaké, in addition to offering a delivery service.
At the same time, the group was in the spotlight in 2022 for its decision to maintain its activities in Russia despite pressures from the Ukrainian government, accusing it of supporting the Russian war effort. Despite this, the distributor’s holding company, ELO, recorded a modest net profit of 42 million euros in 2022, eight times lower than the previous year.
Read the original article(French) on Algerie 360
