KENYA – Carrefour Kenya, operated by Dubai-based conglomerate, Majid Al Futtaim has launched a month-long campaign with Kenya Red Cross to assist communities in need during the coronavirus crisis.
Making it an inclusive campaign by encouraging participation by its customers, the retailer will contribute a food hamper for every 10 donated by its shoppers in donation boxes located in the retailer’s stores.
“During this time of Covid-19, it is important to give back to those in need. Being there for the community by assisting in curbing the effects of this pandemic is an integral part of our business,” said country manager Franck Moreau.
The supermarket will donate maize flour, rice, sugar, cooking oil and other food items to needy families neighbouring its stores.
Distribution will be done through the Kenya Covid-19 Emergency Response Fund.
“The measures instituted as part of the Covid-19 response has put a lot of households in direct strain economically, and unless the most vulnerable families are supported, we cannot defeat this pandemic,” said Asha Mohammed, secretary general, Kenya Red Cross Society.
As the retailer gears up its support to help the needy during this pandemic, the franchise holder has obtained a sh.3 billion (US$28.3m) loan facility from South Africa’s Standard Bank Group to finance expansion of its stores in Kenya.
The retailer said since launching in Kenya four years ago, the franchise of the French hypermarket chain had grown faster than expected; attracting a strong clientele base among the country’s expanding middle class.
The retailer has been expanding its presence in Kenya taking over spaces previously occupied by struggling supermarket chains, including Nakumatt and Uchumi, as well as opening new outlets to cash in on the underserved market.
It has seven branches in Kenya with the eighth one set to open on Uhuru Highway near Nyayo roundabout. It was scheduled to be opened before the end of March but has been delayed due to the current Covid-19 pandemic.
The retailer targets to open 6 new stores by end of 2020.
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