FRANCE’S COOPÉRATIVE U EXPANDS TO RWANDA

French retail group Coopérative U and Groupe Duval have announced a strategic partnership that will see the U brand introduced to Rwanda. Their first venture, a U Express store, is slated to open in early 2026 in Inzovu Mall, Rwanda’s largest shopping centre – developed and owned by Duval Group. By Branislav Pekic

Inzovu Mall project in Kigali
Inzovu Mall, a prominent 27,000-square-metre complex located in the Kimihurura district, near the Kigali Convention Centre, will feature retail and entertainment spaces, a four-star Odalys hotel, a business centre, and modern offices.

Store Network

The partnership aims to establish ten more U stores throughout Rwanda over the next five years.

Duval Group and Coopérative U have also stated their intention to work with local suppliers and develop local agricultural industries. This initiative is expected to generate over 500 direct jobs, enhancing economic inclusion and development in the region.

‘Exemplifies Our Vision’

Commenting on the partnership, Louis-Victor Duval, CEO of the Duval Group, said, “Inzovu Mall exemplifies our vision : to do business with and for the region, creating shared value. Through this partnership and the upcoming opening of the U brand in Rwanda, we aim to offer customers easier access to quality products, support the development of local talent, and actively contribute to the country’s growth dynamic.”

With the move, Rwanda becomes Coopérative U’s 11th African market, expanding its reach beyond its existing francophone West and Central African presence, Mauritius, Morocco and Madagascar.

Along with local players, it will compete with SPAR, which entered Rwanda in April this year.

“This partnership with the Duval Group is an important new step in the strong development of our cooperative, including exports,” added Dominique Schelcher, chairman and CEO of Coopérative U. “With the arrival of Magasins U in Rwanda, consumers will be able to benefit from our commercial promise : quality products at affordable prices.”