Dominique Schelcher, CEO of the Alsatian Cooperative U: “Madagascar, a territory full of promise for the future”

Mis à jour le 21 May 2026

A strategic vision led by Dominique Schelcher for the expansion of Coopérative U in Madagascar

For several years, the leadership of Dominique Schelcher, CEO of Coopérative U, has consistently embodied a visionary dynamic aimed at making Madagascar a key territory in the brand’s global development strategy. Originally from Alsace, Schelcher, who has built a solid reputation in the French retail sector, has clearly identified the island as a promising investment opportunity, where cooperation could play a major role in local economic transformation. The rationale behind this expansion goes beyond simple commercial growth, but is rooted in a social and economic responsibility approach, promoting job creation and the sustainable development of local products.

Trade between Madagascar and France has strengthened in recent years, particularly through bilateral agreements designed to facilitate the transport of goods and structure a partnership that benefits all parties. The logistics platform based in Mulhouse, which supplies the majority of stores in the Grand Est region, is also a strategic asset to support this new phase of internationalization. By leveraging geographical proximity and local culture, Dominique Schelcher aims to integrate Madagascar into a win-win cooperation model, where the cooperative’s growth simultaneously contributes to the island’s long-term economic development.

Madagascar’s economic opportunities: a territory undergoing rapid transformation.

Madagascar, often described as a continent in miniature, possesses a wealth of economic and cultural resources just waiting to be developed with discernment and responsibility. The recent opening of several Super U and U Express stores reflects this commitment to establishing a presence in a territory that is both fragile and brimming with enormous potential. With nearly 10 stores planned across the island by 2025, the group led by Dominique Schelcher demonstrates a strong belief in Madagascar’s economic potential, which, despite structural challenges, is experiencing sustained growth.

The development of these stores has not only met the growing demand for quality products but has also laid the foundations for a sustainable retail ecosystem. The diversification of offerings, particularly for iconic Alsatian products like wine, shows that the local market must evolve to meet the needs of an increasingly demanding clientele eager for authentic and modern products. Furthermore, this effort is part of a local integration strategy, where cooperation with Malagasy suppliers is essential to guarantee balanced growth, supported by a development strategy that respects local needs.

The challenges and stakes of Dominique Schelcher’s development project in Madagascar

For Dominique Schelcher’s cooperation and expansion project in Madagascar to succeed, several challenges, often underestimated in strategic communication, must be addressed. Political stability, for example, remains a constant issue, as does the ability to quickly adapt the commercial offering to local socio-economic realities. Market fluctuations, logistical constraints, and the need to foster genuine integration with local stakeholders require careful analysis and sincere commitment.

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Expected benefits for Madagascar: a gateway to a promising future 🌍

The first visible results, such as the creation of direct and indirect jobs, attest to the positive impact of this entrepreneurial approach. The increased presence of U stores promotes a more equitable redistribution of wealth, while providing Malagasy consumers with a benchmark of quality. The receptiveness of local populations to these initiatives reflects a local desire to participate in a modern commercial dynamic, geared towards progress and innovation.

More broadly, this development could serve as an example for other French companies wishing to establish themselves in Africa, while taking into account socio-cultural specificities. This prompts reflection on the need for sustained investment and close cooperation between private, public, and NGO stakeholders in order to develop sustainable solutions adapted to the Malagasy context. Dominique Schelcher’s commitment places this ambition within a long-term perspective, where cooperation becomes the driving force behind balanced and ethical development.

Support the local economy 🏘️

Job creation and community development

Training and awareness-raising

Strengthening Local Skills 📚

Reduced Dependence and Increased Autonomy

Local Actors: A Fad or a Real Engine of Change?

Integrating the economic growth of large companies with local realities remains a strategic challenge for Dominique Schelcher. Close collaboration with Malagasy stakeholders such as suppliers, NGOs, and local communities is crucial to ensuring development that truly benefits all parties. The challenge lies in the sincerity of this cooperation, often tested by governance issues and economic interests.

It appears that the project’s success largely depends on the cooperative’s ability to act as a catalyst for progress, rather than simply as an external economic operator. The implementation of these initiatives must prioritize dialogue, transparency, and on-the-ground engagement. Building sustainable partnerships, valuing local expertise, and strengthening cooperation are all elements that can make a difference in the long-term success of this approach.

What Cooperation with Madagascar Reveals About Dominique Schelcher’s Priorities for 2026

The ambitions of the Alsatian CEO underscore that his attentive listening to global challenges, such as the ecological transition, the fight against inequality, and social stability, now guides his strategic decisions. The global presence of Coopérative U must address these challenges by offering concrete and measurable solutions, particularly by investing in regions with strong potential like Madagascar.

His vision is resolutely forward-looking, recognizing that the current period demands optimal adaptability in the face of an international context marked by uncertainty. Corporate responsibility is no longer limited to the commercial sphere but must be part of a comprehensive process of social and environmental progress 🌍. The priority is therefore to act locally, while thinking globally, in order to make Madagascar a model of sustainable success on a global scale.

What are Dominique Schelcher’s main objectives for Madagascar? His main objective is to foster sustainable development by positioning Madagascar as a strategic territory within the global growth of Coopérative U, while supporting economic and social cooperation.