CFAO is a leading specialised retail brand in Africa and the French overseas collectivities(1). With a total market of 850 million people, CFAO’s objective is to meet a variety of requirements covering transport for individuals and goods, healthcare, individual and corporate communications and daily consumption in an effective and professional manner.

 

 

 

CFAO has been operating on the African continent for 120 years, and is active in 33 African countries, 6 French overseas collectivities and Vietnam.

 

Due to its know-how in each of the 4 business segments and its expertise in its markets, CFAO now holds leading positions on the African continent. From 2000 to 2007, CFAO pursued an ambitious growth strategy, establishing new companies and acquiring import and distribution companies or labels. Over the period, CFAO established itself in 18 new countries, including Asia, where it sells equipment and private vehicles.

 

Over the past 10 years, CFAO has undergone a period of outstanding growth and profitability, as demonstrated by revenue and recurring operating income that have multiplied by 2.5. Such success is underpinned by solid control over the risk/profitability matrix combined with diversification from both a geographical and a business standpoint.

This performance underscores the success of its investment strategy.

 

One of the top priorities of the CFAO growth strategy is the markets of Mediterranean Africa.

In the medium term, CFAO hopes to generate a quarter of its revenue in the Mediterranean African countries, compared to the current 17%.

CFAO also plans to bolster its market share in English-speaking African countries, particularly East Africa.

 

In 2007, CFAO posted revenue of €2,535 million, an increase of 14.2% in actual terms and 20.2% on a comparable basis. Recurring operating income rose by 27.4% to reach €232 million.

 

CFAO’s goal for 2008 is to continue generating robust business growth by expanding existing activities and adding to its international positions.

CFAO key figures

• 2,535 € million in revenue in 2007
• 232 € million in recurring operating income in 2007
• 10,192 employees at the end of 2007
• Active in 33 African countries, 6 French overseas departments and territories and in Vietnam

BREAKDOWN OF 2007 REVENUE BY ACTIVITY

BREAKDOWN OF 2007 ECONOMIC SALES REVENUE BY GEOGRAPHICAL AREA