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Around fifteen Auchan stores across France are preparing to close their doors. This obviously marks a turning point in the French retail landscape.. Indeed, Auchan is a very popular brand that many consumers appreciate.
This change is the result of a decision by the Schiever Group. In March 2024, he formalized his withdrawal from the Auchan network after 27 years of collaboration. This decision followed the multinational’s financial difficulties. Like others before it and after it, the brand is suffering the consequences of the economic crisis.
The future of stores is taking shape
Nine months after this announcement, the future of the stores is becoming clearer. Contrary to what some might fear, these large areas will not disappear. Indeed, loyal customers feared that stores would close. However, for many, they are practical to go shopping. A closure would therefore mean reviewing these habits. And, sometimes, to travel many more kilometers to find something to fill the refrigerator.
Eventually, the stores will change their brand. Indeed, they will join the Système U cooperative. This move under the banner of one of the main French players in food distribution will take place gradually from March 5, 2025.
To have
This emblematic brand of ready-to-wear stores with more than 200 stores in France is in mourning, it announces the death of its founder
Loyal Auchan customers will therefore see their usual points of sale display a new banner. At a time when Auchan was doing poorly, Système U opted for a consolidation strategy. The misfortune of some…
Système U develops its store network
This partnership with Schiever also promises to considerably strengthen the presence of Système U in strategic regions. With a large presence in the West, the brand can now expand further towards the Center and East of France.
In fact, the first thirteen stores affected by this transition are spread across various departments, notably in Nièvre, Côte-d’Or, Moselle and Seine-et-Marne. Among these points of sale are establishments located in Avallon, Sens, Farébersviller and even Châtillon-sur-Seine.
At the same time, three other stores operating under the bi1 brand, created by Schiever in 2013, will also join Système U at the beginning of March. These stores, which are located in Saint-Florentin, Migennes and Cluny, illustrate the extent of this reorganization.
Difficulties for Auchan, which no longer has a choice
These changes occur in a particularly difficult context for Auchan. In the first half of 2024, the brand recorded around a billion euros in net loss. Due to this situation, the group has no choice. He finds himself obliged to opt for drastic measures. And this logically involves the closure of stores.
To have
This dish, widely consumed by the French, is the subject of a massive product throughout France, the stores concerned, it is couscous
But that’s not all. The brand must also cut nearly 2,400 jobs. This resizing illustrates the challenges that the mass distribution sector must face.
Competition is difficult to manage for certain brands which are gradually sinking. To remain competitive, stores must continually meet changing customer expectations.
Several groups understand this and opt, for example, to modernize points of sale. Another strategy, likewise, is to diversify services. For example, by offering to receive packages.
