Our History

A Journey of Vision, Growth, and Innovation Since 1994

History

The Journey

Get-As International Plc. was established in 1994 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, by two brothers with a shared vision and deep entrepreneurial spirit. The company was born at a pivotal moment in Ethiopia’s history, as the nation transitioned from two decades of a closed, command economy to a new era of openness and liberalization.

Sensing the opportunities brought about by emerging trade policies and regulations, the brothers built on their two decades of experience in textiles and clothing to lay the foundation for what would become a growing enterprise. In its early years, Get-As focused primarily on trading textiles and garments, quickly earning a reputation for quality and reliability.

As the Ethiopian economy continued to evolve, so did Get-As. The company expanded its product lines to include fast-moving consumer goods, stationery supplies, and construction materials—diversifying to meet the needs of a rapidly changing market.

Over time, Get-As International extended its reach beyond trading. It ventured into new industries, including dry bulk cargo transport, logistics and clearing services, and real estate development. Each new chapter reflected the company’s adaptability and commitment to growth, while staying rooted in the family values that inspired its founding.

From its humble beginnings in 1994 to the multifaceted enterprise it is today, Get-As International’s journey tells a story of resilience, vision, and steady expansion in step with Ethiopia’s economic transformation.

Timeline

Company Timeline

Timeline of Milestones

1975

Journey Begins

Getu Gelete began as a small entrepreneurial venture marking the start of its journey.

1980

Brothers Come Together

Asrat Gelete joined his brother’s aspiration of trade and commerce.

1985

Trade Business

Adugna Bekele joined the brothers to strengthen the growing trade business.

1991

Partnership

Following the regime change in Ethiopia; the opening of market liberalization in 1991, saw the two brothers in forming Get-As International plc and consolidation of businesses in 1994

1995

Transport

Following the company’s import and trade activities a transportation unit was formed to serve both internal and external customers.

1998

Logistic & Transit

The logistic and transit division was formed to serve both internal and external customers.

2000

Finance Sector

The company expanded its investments in the financial sector industry

2005

Real Estate

Get-As Real Estate Division began to focus on building luxury homes and apartments.

2009

Headquarters

The company laid a foundation to construct its headquarter in Arada sub city.

2011

Finance Sector

Investments in different sectors of the economy continued to expand through sister companies i.e. floriculture, chemical manufacturing, beverage manufacturing, hospitality and safety match production.

2011

Arada

The head quarter was completed, and operations of different departments were relocated.

2014

Pharmaceuticals Launch

Entering the pharmaceuticals industry marked a significant evolution in our business portfolio. This launch was aimed at that serving the growing health care needs of society.

2023

Retail Vehicles

Get-As Motors was created to serve the growing retail sector in automobile sales.

2023

Habesha Cement

Get-As becomes majority share holder of Habesha Cement. Revitalizing the cement company and making it profitable.

2024

Dudga Forex

Dudga Forex Bureau is a sister company of Get-As International. An independent foreign exchange bureau in Ethiopia.

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