Post by : Raman

In a major move in Bahrain’s retail market, Majid Al Futtaim has launched its new grocery retail brand, HyperMax, just a day after French retailer Carrefour ended operations in the country. Carrefour, which was operated by Majid Al Futtaim under exclusive franchise rights, officially ceased operations on September 14, marking the end of a long-standing presence in Bahrain.

Majid Al Futtaim, one of Dubai’s largest private business groups, brought Carrefour to the Middle East in 1995. The group continues to operate Carrefour stores in 12 countries across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, with a network of more than 390 outlets. With the introduction of HyperMax, the company is not only filling the gap left by Carrefour but also expanding its grocery retail vision in the region.

HyperMax Launch and Store Presence

HyperMax officially launched in Bahrain with six stores, supported by a robust e-commerce platform. This approach reflects Majid Al Futtaim’s omnichannel strategy, combining physical stores and online shopping to meet the growing needs of modern consumers. The stores are strategically located to serve both city and suburban shoppers.

The brand employs more than 1,600 people and partners with over 250 local farmers, producers, suppliers, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This partnership not only supports local businesses but also strengthens food security and aligns with Bahrain’s Vision 2030 strategy, which focuses on economic diversification, sustainability, and the promotion of local industries.

Focus on Fresh, Local, and Quality Products

HyperMax aims to provide fresh, high-quality grocery products with an emphasis on locally sourced goods. The chain offers a wide variety of products, including fresh fruits and vegetables, dairy, meats, bakery items, and international grocery products.

Mohamad El Khatib, Head of Operations at Majid Al Futtaim Retail – HyperMax Bahrain, said, “By championing local sourcing, we are building a dynamic ecosystem that makes fresh, high-quality grocery products more accessible and affordable.” He added that HyperMax is committed to long-term growth in Bahrain and will focus on serving local communities while maintaining international standards.

The flagship HyperMax store at City Centre Bahrain hosted special launch activities on Monday evening to mark the brand’s debut. These events highlighted the company’s dedication to quality, local sourcing, and customer experience.

HyperMax Expansion Strategy

The launch in Bahrain follows a similar strategy used in other Middle Eastern countries. Carrefour had previously exited Jordan in November 2024 and Oman in January 2025. In both cases, HyperMax stores were introduced shortly after Carrefour’s exit, demonstrating a clear plan by Majid Al Futtaim to transition from the French brand to its own retail brand while maintaining customer trust and market share.

The company’s decision to launch HyperMax immediately after Carrefour’s exit ensures that customers have continuity in their shopping options. This quick transition helps retain the existing customer base and reduces potential disruption in the grocery market.

Job Creation and Economic Impact

HyperMax’s launch is expected to create significant employment opportunities in Bahrain. With over 1,600 jobs already provided, the brand will continue to hire staff for retail, supply chain, logistics, and management roles as it expands.

Furthermore, HyperMax’s focus on working with more than 250 local producers and SMEs will boost Bahrain’s local economy. By sourcing fresh produce and other goods locally, the company not only supports farmers and small businesses but also reduces supply chain dependency on imports, which aligns with the country’s national development goals under Vision 2030.

E-Commerce and Omnichannel Approach

HyperMax is designed to be more than just a physical supermarket chain. Its e-commerce platform allows customers to order groceries online and have them delivered to their homes. This omnichannel approach is increasingly important in today’s retail environment, where convenience, speed, and accessibility are key factors influencing consumer choice.

By combining physical stores with online shopping options, HyperMax caters to both traditional shoppers and tech-savvy consumers. This strategy also ensures that the brand remains competitive in an increasingly digital marketplace.

Majid Al Futtaim’s Retail Legacy

Majid Al Futtaim has a long history in the Middle East retail industry. Since introducing Carrefour to the region in 1995, the group has expanded its presence to several countries. In addition to retail, Majid Al Futtaim operates shopping malls, leisure and entertainment assets, real estate developments, and other retail ventures across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.

The transition from Carrefour to HyperMax marks a significant milestone for the company. It reflects Majid Al Futtaim’s strategy to strengthen its own brand presence while maintaining customer trust and providing high-quality retail experiences.

HyperMax’s Customer-Centric Approach

HyperMax emphasizes customer satisfaction, affordability, and accessibility. The stores offer well-organized layouts, fresh produce, and a wide range of international and local products. This approach ensures that customers have a seamless shopping experience, whether they are buying groceries in-store or online.

The focus on local sourcing not only provides fresher products but also reduces environmental impact by cutting down transportation costs and supporting sustainable farming practices. HyperMax’s partnerships with local producers strengthen community ties and provide transparency in the supply chain.

Bahrain Market Outlook

Bahrain’s grocery retail market is evolving rapidly. With growing urban populations, changing lifestyles, and increasing digital adoption, consumers expect modern retail experiences with convenience and variety. HyperMax’s entry into Bahrain is timely, as it meets these changing consumer needs while reinforcing local sourcing and food security.

The brand’s strategy of integrating physical stores with online services positions it well for future growth. As consumers become more comfortable with online grocery shopping, HyperMax’s omnichannel approach is likely to increase market share and customer loyalty.

Majid Al Futtaim’s launch of HyperMax in Bahrain demonstrates a well-planned strategy to transition from Carrefour while introducing a strong, local-focused retail brand. By opening six stores, employing over 1,600 people, and partnering with 250 local suppliers, the company is supporting Bahrain’s economy, food security, and Vision 2030 goals.

HyperMax’s emphasis on fresh, high-quality groceries, local sourcing, and e-commerce solutions ensures a modern, customer-focused shopping experience. The brand’s immediate presence in Bahrain after Carrefour’s exit highlights Majid Al Futtaim’s commitment to continuity, quality, and growth in the Middle East retail market.

For consumers, HyperMax represents more than a supermarket; it is a promise of better quality, accessibility, and support for local communities. As Majid Al Futtaim expands HyperMax across Bahrain and other markets, it is likely to become a leading name in the region’s grocery retail landscape.

HyperMax Bahrain, Majid Al Futtaim, Carrefour exit, grocery retail, local sourcing, e-commerce