This paper focuses on comparing the cross selling practices in public and private banks (Specialrnreference Commercial bank of Ethiopia and Dashen bank in Addis Ababa city). Thus, the studyrntries to assess the status and ways cross selling has been put in to practice by selected Ethiopianrnpublic and private banks. In addition, this research considers different cross selling dimensionsrnsuch as perceived benefit, initiatives, effectiveness, and hurdles. To achieve the objective of thernstudy, primary data were collected through questionnaire from sample of 60 bank employees ofrnCommercial bank of Ethiopia and 60 employees Dashen bank . These respondents were selectedrnusing simple random sampling technique. The data collected through questionnaire werernanalyzed using descriptive statistical analysis method and SPSS as a tool of data analysis.rnInterviews were also conducted with management bodies of the selected private and public banksrnin Addis Ababa city. The result of the study indicated that, there are several loopholes; such as,rnlack of training and incentives, aggressive cross selling. In addition to the above findings, therncommon challenge of the. The finding also suggests some initiatives which can be taken by thernbanks in order to enhance cross selling practices of the banks. The study also clearly revealedrnthat the four cross selling dimensions are strongly related. Based on the findings of the study, thernresearcher forwards some recommendations as; continuous supervision on the quality ofrnservices, provision of training to employees, and incentives to employees help the banks tornachieve their objectives. The study revealed that cross selling practices in public and privaternsector banks are some difference. Further, this study brought out the major cross sellingrnchallenges and issue forced by both banks. Finally some important strategies were suggested forrnthe betterment of officer in public and private sector banks.rnKey words: cross- selling, banking, retention customer