Birth of a trading house
The origins of the trading house that would later become one of the pioneers of Indian Ocean commerce.
Our journey, our commitment
Our History
Since 1896, Groupe Marill has built a story of entrepreneurship, initiative, and commitment to trade, logistics, and development across Africa and the Indian Ocean.
1896 - 1953
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Arrival in Djibouti
Paul Marill arrives in Djibouti and begins the commercial activities that will become the group’s foundation.
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Regional extension
The trading house extends its activities and responds to local needs across the region.
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First counter
Opening of the first counter in Obock and development of essential goods trading.
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Commercial network
Paul Marill develops his commercial network and strengthens regional partnerships.
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Foreign trade
Paul Marill is appointed foreign trade advisor for France.
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First World War
At the start of the First World War, Paul Marill mobilizes teams to support logistics and supply.
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Diversification
Growth in trading and diversification into foodstuffs and imported goods.
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Warehouses and workshops
Creation of depots and workshops in Djibouti and the region to improve distribution and logistics.
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A lasting legacy
Paul Marill leaves a solid and respected company built on trust and initiative.
1953 - 1991
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Family succession
André Marill takes over and brings new momentum focused on growth and modernization.
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Etablissements Marill
Creation of Etablissements MARILL, registered in the commercial register.
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Offices and agencies
New offices and agencies open across the region, strengthening the group’s presence and partnerships.
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Vehicle fleet
Development of a vehicle fleet and logistics services to support regional economic growth.
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Insurance
The group extends its activities and represents partner products across the region.
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SOMAILL
Creation of SOMAILL to support the group’s property and logistics development.
1953 - 1991 : A key partner in the Horn of Africa
The succession is secured. André Marill entrusts the business to his two sons, Thierry and Luc Marill. This is the birth of what will become GROUPE MARILL, a major economic actor in the region.
MARILL INTERNATIONAL : import & export
SOMIGAS SALT : iodized and non-iodized bitumen sales
SOMIVA : Renault concession in Mayotte
PUMA SA : property development and asset management
TRANS MODULS AFRICA : international transport
AFRICAS-SA : insurance company
DIF-PRO SA : IT equipment and services
LAGON LOCATION SA : Europcar franchise
AGENCE MARITIME MARILL SARL : maritime agency
MARILL SOMAILL : property, import & export
MARILL S.E. : property management in Djibouti
TRANSIT MARILL SARL : transit & transport
MARILL AUTOMOTIVE SA : automotive & services
SEGON : transit and moving company
UHAGEA AUTOMOTIVE COMPANY : automotive services
GULF AGENCY MARILL SERVICES (GAMS) : maritime agency and transit in Somalia
On December 31, 2012, Etablissements MARILL definitively ceased operations. On January 1, 2013, MARILL SAS SARL took over service activities dedicated to GROUPE MARILL companies.
More than 125 years of history,
guided by trust, innovation, and commitment.