BCLP advises Carrefour on Ethiopian expansion with Queens Supermarket franchise

International law firm BCLP has advised Carrefour on its new franchise with Queens Supermarket PLC, a subsidiary of Midroc Investment Group, supporting the roll-out of Carrefour banners, expertise and products in Ethiopia. 

The agreement includes the rebranding of 13 existing stores, with the first conversions planned for the first half of 2026. It also sets out expansion plans for 17 additional outlets by 2028, establishing Carrefour’s physical retail footprint in Ethiopia, one of Africa’s largest and fastest-growing consumer markets.

This transaction represents the realisation of Carrefour’s 2026 strategic plan, which targeted expansion into ten new countries through franchising. BCLP is proud to have supported Carrefour in a majority of these new openings, including its recent advice on the retailer’s franchise partnership with Apparel Group in India.

This partnership further strengthens BCLP’s relationship with Carrefour and supports the retailer’s continued momentum toward its international growth ambitions.

Patrick Lasfargues, CEO, Carrefour International Partnership, commented, “Following our recent expansion into India, we are pleased to once again rely on BCLP as our trusted adviser as we enter one of Africa’s most dynamic consumer markets. Their deep sector knowledge and international reach continue to support our long-term growth strategy.”

The BCLP team included Jinal Shah (UK Managing Partner, Corporate Transactions), Richard Shaw (Partner, Technology, Commercial and Government Affairs), George Avery (Senior Associate, Corporate Transactions), and Krish Raichura (Associate, Technology, Commercial and Government Affairs).