Intermarché Set to Acquire 81 Colruyt Stores in Strategic Move
Intermarché announces acquisition of 81 Colruyt stores to enhance market position.
Key Points
- • Intermarché to acquire 81 Colruyt stores for 215 million euros.
- • The acquisition is expected to be completed in the first half of 2026.
- • Colruyt has struggled in the French market, leading to the sale.
- • 1,300 employees will retain their jobs post-acquisition.
On June 17, 2025, Intermarché, a prominent player in the French retail market, announced its decision to acquire 81 out of the 104 Colruyt discount stores located in France. This acquisition, valued at 215 million euros, is a strategic initiative aimed at bolstering Intermarché's market share, which the company aims to increase to 20% by 2028.
This acquisition comes on the heels of Colruyt's recent struggles within the fiercely competitive French grocery sector, where the Belgian supermarket chain has faced challenges achieving profitability despite its efforts since entering the French market in 1998. Colruyt's decision to sell these stores reflects a broader trend of consolidation within the retail industry in France, as firms adapt to market pressures and shifts in consumer preferences.
One significant aspect of the deal includes provisions for job security. Approximately 1,300 employees from the stores set to be acquired will retain their positions post-acquisition. Moreover, Intermarché has committed to offering an additional 175 permanent jobs to employees working at Colruyt's logistics bases that are not part of the sale, ensuring minimal disruption for those affected by the transition.
In its statement, Intermarché expressed optimism about this strategic acquisition, indicating that it intends to leverage the acquisition to better serve consumers and drive competitiveness. Colruyt, meanwhile, has received interest in approximately 15 of its remaining stores from other parties, underlining the ongoing shifts in the retail landscape.