Egypt’s local brands are getting a new digital boost with the launch of Marhba, a new e-commerce platform designed to connect Egyptian-made products with a wider audience. Launched by SIDEUP, a leading logistics and smart e-commerce solutions provider in the Middle East, Marhba is positioned as a practical step toward supporting local industry while improving how consumers discover and shop for trusted homegrown brands.
The platform enters the market at a time when Egyptian manufacturers and entrepreneurs are seeking stronger sales channels and greater visibility. By bringing multiple well-known local brands into one modern digital space, Marhba aims to simplify online shopping for consumers while helping sellers grow in a competitive e-commerce environment. The platform will start operations in Egypt, with plans already in place to expand to other markets in the future.
At its core, Marhba focuses on building confidence in locally made products. It highlights quality, design and value, while using technology and logistics systems that meet current e-commerce standards. This approach is expected to help Egyptian brands compete more effectively, not only at home but also across the region over time.
Building a Reliable Sales Channel for Egyptian Entrepreneurs
SIDEUP describes Marhba as more than an online store. It is designed as a complete sales channel that connects manufacturers, entrepreneurs and consumers through a trusted and well-organised system. The platform allows local brands to reach wider customer segments without the heavy cost of building their own logistics and payment infrastructure.
Waleed Rashed, CEO of SIDEUP, said the launch reflects a strong belief in Egypt’s manufacturing potential.
“The launch of ‘Marhba’ reflects our deep belief in the power of local industry and the ability of Egyptian brands to compete. Our goal is to create a space that brings together the best of what is made in Egypt and presents it to consumers in a distinctive shopping experience, supported by SIDEUP’s expertise in e-commerce and logistics services.”
Rashed explained that Marhba is designed to support Egyptian manufacturers and entrepreneurs by offering tools that help them sell, scale and build stronger brands.
“The ‘Marhba’ platform focuses on supporting Egyptian manufacturers and entrepreneurs by providing a robust sales channel that enables them to reach wider customer segments and build brands capable of competing locally and regionally.”
This support is built on SIDEUP’s existing operations and services ecosystem, which has been developed over more than seven years in the Egyptian market. Through this infrastructure, Marhba sellers gain access to shipping services, electronic payments, order management systems and cash-on-delivery options. These services are meant to reduce friction for both buyers and sellers and create a smooth end-to-end shopping experience.
Rashed noted that this integrated approach is one of the platform’s main strengths, as it removes many of the barriers that small and mid-sized brands often face when entering e-commerce.
A Platform Backed by Strong Infrastructure and Regional Experience
Marhba will offer a wide range of products across several categories, including fashion, accessories, clothing, home products and more. Special attention is given to brands that reflect Egyptian identity while maintaining modern design and high quality standards. This balance is meant to appeal to consumers who want products that feel local yet contemporary.
SIDEUP’s role in supporting the platform goes beyond branding. The company operates an integrated e-commerce solutions platform that includes shipping, digital payments, operations management, warehousing, fulfilment and consulting services. It works with more than 20 major shipping companies, including Aramex, J&T, DHL, iMile and SPL, giving Marhba access to a wide logistics network.
Founded in Egypt in 2019, SIDEUP was created to help e-commerce businesses manage digital payments and operations through a single platform. It also offers cash-on-delivery services, which remain an important payment option for many consumers in the region. Over time, the company has developed advanced technical solutions aimed at helping merchants grow revenue and form effective partnerships.
After building a strong presence in Egypt, SIDEUP expanded into Saudi Arabia in 2022. In the past two years, the company has raised $1.2 million in investments from regional and international investors, including 500 Startups, Launch Africa VC, Alex Angels and RAI Angels. This backing has supported its expansion and product development across markets.
With Marhba, SIDEUP is applying this experience directly to the local retail landscape. The platform is expected to play a role in strengthening confidence in Egyptian-made products, supporting small and medium-sized businesses, and creating a more organised digital marketplace for local brands. As Marhba grows, its success could signal a broader shift toward stronger digital support for domestic industries across the region.
