Carrefour Bids Farewell to Bahrain as Majid Al Futtaim Launches HyperMax Brand
In a significant development within the retail landscape of Bahrain, Carrefour, an iconic name in the grocery industry, has officially ceased its operations in the kingdom. This announcement marks the culmination of Carrefour’s impactful presence over the past several decades, during which it endeared itself to a diverse range of customers. A heartfelt message to its management and employees expressed gratitude for their unwavering support. This transition coincides with the introduction of a new retail brand, HyperMax, by Carrefour’s Middle Eastern franchisee, Majid Al Futtaim.
According to a report from Khaleej Times, the new HyperMax store has already commenced operations in the City Centre Bahrain shopping hub. The introduction of HyperMax underscores Majid Al Futtaim’s strategy to evolve its retail offerings in response to changing consumer preferences and market dynamics. By rebranding and expanding its footprint, the company aims to deliver enhanced shopping experiences tailored to the specific needs of Bahrain’s vibrant retail environment.
The closure of Carrefour in Bahrain is not an isolated incident; it follows the retailer’s retreat from other Middle Eastern markets as well. Carrefour exited operations in Jordan in November of last year, followed by its departure from Oman in January 2025. In response to these market shifts, Majid Al Futtaim is ushering in the HyperMax brand, which has already gained traction in both Oman and Jordan, where it made its debut and plans to expand further. The company envisions establishing six HyperMax stores in Bahrain, enriching the region’s retail landscape with innovative shopping options.
HyperMax’s inception in Bahrain is not merely a rebranding exercise; it represents the company’s ambitious strategy to drive growth and enhance consumer engagement. Majid Al Futtaim’s recent financial reports indicate a robust performance during the first half of its financial year. The company recorded a 9% year-on-year increase in Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization (EBITDA), totaling AED 2.3 billion. Furthermore, revenues grew by 3% to reach AED 17.3 billion, while net profits, excluding valuation and taxation, surged by an impressive 23%, amounting to AED 1.3 billion.
Fadel Abdulbaqi Al Ali, the chairman of the board at Majid Al Futtaim Holding, emphasized the company’s commitment to maintaining a strategic vision that aligns with the evolving expectations of consumers. He remarked, “Majid Al Futtaim’s first-half financial performance highlights both the strength of its strategic direction and the group’s commitment to delivering long-term value creation for all stakeholders.” Al Ali’s statement underscores the company’s focus on shaping world-class retail experiences, illustrating its dedication to impactful engagement within the communities it serves.
The launch of HyperMax is poised to not only fill the vacuum left by Carrefour but also to redefine the shopping experience in Bahrain. With its innovative approach, HyperMax aims to attract a diverse customer base while aligning with the aspirations of modern consumers who prioritize quality, convenience, and service. As the retail sector evolves, Majid Al Futtaim’s strategic investments and brand expansions are likely to resonate positively with shoppers seeking new and engaging shopping experiences.
As Bahrain transitions into this new chapter of retail, the future looks promising. HyperMax represents a fresh perspective in the retail space, characterized by an emphasis on modernity, customer engagement, and broad product offerings. This new brand’s rollout is anticipated to stimulate competition within the local market, ultimately benefiting consumers through improved services and pricing structures.
In conclusion, the retail landscape in Bahrain is entering an exciting phase as Carrefour’s exit paves the way for HyperMax’s arrival. Majid Al Futtaim’s commitment to innovation and community engagement promises a revitalized shopping experience that aligns with the needs and preferences of a contemporary customer base. This transformative shift is anticipated to enhance the local economy while showcasing the dynamic nature of retail in the Middle East.
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