CAIRO — Popular Egyptian dessert chain Blaban has announced the complete suspension of all its operations within Egypt, including the closure of 110 branches, factories, and affiliated facilities, citing what it describes as an “unprecedented crisis” and a lack of clarity from authorities regarding the reasons behind the move.
In an open letter addressed to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al Sisi, Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouli, and other state officials, Blaban revealed that the shutdown affects more than 25,000 Egyptian workers and jeopardizes the company’s regional operations across the Arab world.
“All operations of Blaban Company have completely ceased within the Arab Republic of Egypt,” the statement read. “We have not been granted clarity regarding the reasons behind these measures or the mechanisms for resolution, leaving the company and its employees in a state of total paralysis.”
The company emphasized that the suspension of its domestic operations directly impacts its international presence. Blaban currently operates branches in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Morocco, Libya, Jordan, Oman, and Qatar. “All our operations in Arab countries depend on management and execution based in Egypt,” the statement added.
Blaban’s UAE branches declined to comment when contacted by Khaleej Times, while operations in Saudi Arabia have also faced scrutiny.
Last month, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing temporarily closed down Blaban outlets following reports of food poisoning linked to its products.
The Saudi statement did not provide details on the extent of the alleged cases but confirmed the measure was precautionary. In response to the closures and mounting speculation, Blaban insisted on its commitment to transparency and accountability.
“We clearly and openly declare our full readiness to undergo all forms of inspection, auditing, and accountability,” the statement continued. “We welcome any committee, oversight body, or legal procedure from the state.”
The company underscored that it was not seeking leniency or special privileges. “We only seek protection, verification, and justice,” the statement said. “We affirm that we do not claim to be without fault and acknowledge that any large-scale operation may make mistakes. But we are always ready to review, correct, and improve.”
Blaban appealed directly to the president and prime minister for intervention to save what it described as a “national enterprise that was born in this country, serves its people, and proudly carries its name abroad.”
Founded in Alexandria in 2021, Blaban began as a small factory producing traditional Egyptian desserts such as rice pudding, Om Ali, couscous, and ice cream. In just three years, the brand rapidly expanded, becoming one of the country’s most recognizable names in the dessert and foodservice industry.
The company’s sudden collapse has sent ripples through Egypt’s business and food service sectors, raising questions about regulatory actions and potential public health concerns. As of Friday, no official statement has been issued by Egyptian authorities regarding the closures or any investigation into the company’s operations.