Founded in 1959, the Paris-based grocery retailer and wholesaler operates in more than 40 countries, and the majority of its sales are concentrated in its home market of France, along with strong contributions from Spain and Brazil. The group is also present in numerous African, Middle Eastern, Central Asia and South Asian markets through local partner operators. Altogether that gives Carrefour just under 15,000 stores, three-quarters of which are run under franchise or leasing agreements. The group has been at the forefront of many now-familiar features of European retail, including hypermarkets, grocery e-commerce, and own-brand products, which now account for a significant portion of its food sales. It employs over 300,000 people worldwide.
