While the mass distribution landscape in France continues to transform, the Competition Authority has just made its decision. Eleven stores, previously bought by Intermarché, must change brands.
The group Casino went through an unprecedented crisis. Long considered a retail giant, it had to face major financial difficulties. In question? A colossal debt accumulated during its rapid growth, which led to massive and significant disposals. At the height of his glory, Casino still had 200,000 employees worldwide at the end of 2022, including 50,000 in France. To avoid bankruptcy, the group restructured its budget on a large scale and abandoned many stores.
Among the buyers: Intermarché, Carrefour et Auchan. Jean-Charles Naouri, former emblematic leader, gave way to Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky and his partners. The latter took control of the groupbeginning a difficult recovery, but necessary for the future of Casino. For consumers, the main thing remains to have access to a varied and competitive offer, regardless of the logo that sits above the checkouts.
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Intermarché forced to sell 11 stores in France
The takeover of part of the stores Casino par Intermarchéenacted in 2023, was not without consequences. In fact, theCompetition Authority had to intervene to guarantee balance in the sector. If 61 points of sale Casinohad been bought by Intermarché, new conditions were imposed in 2024, according to the organization. In a press release published this Thursday, November 28, 2024, theCompetition Authority a required that Intermarché sells 11 establishments to other distributors.
This decision aims to avoid a situation of quasi-monopoly in certain territories, where competition would have been weakened. A necessary measure to protect consumers and guarantee competitive prices. For customers of these stores, this change of brand should result in a smooth transition. This new episode illustrates the extent to which the battle for mass distribution in France remains intense and full of twists and turns.
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Which stores are affected in France?
French mass distribution is undergoing rapid change. And this restructuring, although complex, is gradually redefining the balance of the sector. These 11 stores, soon to be sold to other groups that Intermarchéare distributed throughout France. The establishments concerned are located in economically strategic areas. These are stores in Arc-lès-Gray (70), Bagnères-de-Luchon (31), Blanzac-lès-Matha (17), Boé (47), Charlieu (42), Lambesc (13), Lorgues (83), Revel (31), Solliès-Pont (83), Susville (38) and Valence-d’Agen (82).
These sales follow a previous transaction authorized in January 2024. On this occasion, three stores located in Lons-le-Saunier (39), Plouaret (22) and Vals-près-le-Puy (43) had already been sold to the group Carrefour. L’Competition Authority thus strengthened its vigilance to preserve healthy competition between major players in mass distribution. Waiting for, Intermarché continues its growth while adapting to regulatory requirements. Casinofor its part, continues to reorganize its network to redress the situation.
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