26/07/2025
The Omnium Nord-Africain, widely known as ONA Group, was once the undisputed titan of Morocco's private industrial and financial landscape. Before its eventual dissolution in 2010, ONA stood as a testament to Moroccan enterprise, a sprawling conglomerate that touched nearly every facet of the nation's economy. Its influence extended across crucial sectors, including mining, agro-industry, large-scale retail, and financial services, making it a cornerstone of economic development in North Africa.
The Genesis of a Conglomerate
The origins of ONA trace back to 1919 with the founding of the Compagnie Générale de Transport et de Tourisme by the Frenchman Jean Épinat. With the support of Thami El Glaoui, the company laid its foundations. By 1934, it had evolved and was rebranded as Omnium Nord-Africain. The post-World War II era saw a significant shift in ownership, with the assets of Jean Épinat coming under the control of the Banque de Paris et des Pays-Bas. A pivotal moment arrived in 1980 when the Moroccan royal family, through Ergis-Siger, acquired Paribas's stake, signalling a new era of national ownership and strategic direction for the burgeoning group.
A Diversified Portfolio: ONA's Business Branches in 2009
By 2009, ONA's extensive reach was clearly demonstrated by its diverse business branches, each contributing significantly to its overall turnover. The group's strategic investments spanned multiple industries, showcasing its ambition and operational breadth.
| Sector | Contribution to Turnover (2009) | Key Companies and Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Agro-industry | 51.5% | Centrale Danone (dairy products - sold to Danone in 2012), Fromagerie des Doukkala (cheeses), Cosumar (sugar), Lesieur Cristal (oils - sold to Sofiprotéol in 2012), Bimo (biscuits - sold to Kraft Foods in 2012), Sotherma (mineral waters), CMB Plastique (plastic packaging), Products of the Sea. |
| Distribution | 40.5% | Marjane (hypermarkets, shopping centres), Acima (hypermarkets, shopping centres - rebranded as Marjane Market since 2019), Sopriam (automotive distribution), OPTORG (distribution of capital goods). |
| Mines | 6.1% | Groupe Managem (leading mining operator in Morocco and Africa), Sonasid (Société Nationale de Sidérurgie SA). |
| Growth Relays and Holdings | 1.5% | Inwi (telecommunications operator), Nareva (energy, environment), Onapar (real estate holding company), Accolade (call centre), Archos Conseil (management consulting - acquired by Capital Consulting in 2010), NetCom (enterprise systems and networks). |
| Financial Activities | 0.4% | Attijariwafa Bank (leading banking and financial group in the Maghreb and Africa), Agma Lahlou-Tazi (pioneer in insurance and reinsurance consulting and brokerage in Morocco). |
A Financial Powerhouse: ONA's Growth and Impact
The financial performance of ONA Group was a clear indicator of its economic significance. The group's turnover experienced substantial growth, escalating from 16.3 billion Moroccan Dirhams (DH) in 1992 to an impressive 36.8 billion DH by 2008. This remarkable increase underscored ONA's capacity to adapt, innovate, and expand its market presence, solidifying its position as a key player in the Moroccan economy. The strategic divestments, such as the sale of Centrale Danone and Lesieur Cristal, demonstrated a dynamic approach to portfolio management, allowing the group to refocus on emerging opportunities and core strengths.
Leadership Through the Years
ONA Group was steered by a succession of experienced leaders who played crucial roles in shaping its trajectory. The leadership tenure saw significant strategic decisions and operational management that contributed to the group's sustained growth and influence.
Key Presidents of ONA Group included:
- Fouad Filali (1986 - April 20, 1999)
- Mourad Cherif (1999 - 2002)
- Bassim Jaï Hokimi (2002 - 2005)
- Saâd Bendidi (February 2005 - April 15, 2008)
- Mouatassim Belghazi (April 11, 2008 - March 15, 2011)
The End of an Era: Dissolution and Legacy
The journey of ONA Group as an independent entity concluded on December 31, 2010, with its absorption by its parent company, Société Nationale d'Investissement (SNI). This merger marked the end of an era for one of Morocco's most influential economic forces. While ONA no longer exists in its former structure, its legacy endures through the companies it nurtured and the economic landscape it helped shape. The strategic direction and investments made by ONA have had a lasting impact on the Moroccan economy, contributing to the development of key sectors and fostering industrial growth.
Frequently Asked Questions about ONA Group
Q1: What does ONA stand for?
ONA is the acronym for Omnium Nord-Africain.
Q2: When was ONA Group dissolved?
ONA Group was dissolved on December 31, 2010, through a merger with its parent company, Société Nationale d'Investissement (SNI).
Q3: What were the main sectors ONA Group operated in?
ONA Group operated in agro-industry, distribution, mining, telecommunications, energy, real estate, and financial services.
Q4: Which were some of the major companies under ONA Group?
Key companies included Centrale Danone, Cosumar, Lesieur Cristal, Marjane, Acima, Groupe Managem, Sonasid, Inwi, Nareva, and Attijariwafa Bank.
Q5: Who founded the company that eventually became ONA?
The company's origins lie with the Compagnie Générale de Transport et de Tourisme, founded in 1919 by the Frenchman Jean Épinat.
Q6: What was the financial significance of ONA Group?
ONA Group was a major economic force, with its turnover growing significantly over the years, demonstrating its substantial contribution to the Moroccan economy. Its turnover reached 36.8 billion DH in 2008.
The story of ONA Group is a compelling narrative of industrial development and economic transformation in Morocco. Its extensive operations and strategic vision left an indelible mark, contributing to the nation's progress and establishing a strong foundation for future economic endeavors.
If you want to read more articles similar to ONA Group: A Moroccan Industrial Giant, you can visit the Automotive category.