Carrefour, the global French retail giant, has announced its decision to cease operations in Kuwait effective September 16, 2025. The move marks the latest chapter in the company’s ongoing regional restructuring, following its recent exit from Bahrain and Jordan. Carrefour, operating in over 40 countries with more than 14,000 stores worldwide, expressed gratitude to its Kuwaiti customers for their support over the years, while signaling a strategic shift towards new retail concepts in the Gulf region.
In an official statement, Carrefour thanked its customers for their loyalty and support during its decades-long presence in Kuwait. “On behalf of Carrefour management and employees, we extend our sincere gratitude for your continuous support over the past decades,” the firm said in a social media post on Tuesday. The decision to close stores reflects a broader strategy led by Majid Al Futtaim, which holds exclusive franchise rights for Carrefour in the Middle East.
Carrefour first entered the Middle East market in 1995 and rapidly expanded across several Gulf countries, including Kuwait, the UAE, Bahrain, and Jordan. However, recent years have seen significant restructuring moves. Only days earlier, Carrefour announced its departure from Bahrain, and in November 2024, it closed its operations in Jordan, apologizing for the inconvenience caused to customers.
Industry analysts suggest that Majid Al Futtaim is preparing to replace the Carrefour brand in Kuwait with its newly launched retail chain, HyperMax, aiming to provide a more modern and competitive supermarket experience in the region. This strategic shift reflects evolving market dynamics, increasing competition from online grocery services, and changing consumer preferences.
Despite Carrefour’s exit in Kuwait and other markets, its presence in the UAE remains strong, with numerous stores spread across major malls and residential areas. The brand continues to be a favorite among residents seeking variety and convenience in grocery shopping.
