Could the low-cost bazaar giant disappear? At least that’s the melody that’s been playing for several days. The Gifi brand, created around forty years ago by Philippe Ginestet, would have accumulated difficulties – market competition, loss of turnover, failed commercial operation – to which would have been added an IT failure in 2023, which would have then plunged the group which has more than 600 stores on the national territory including 8 in Corsica. “There was indeed a problem during the IT switchover, which led to blockages in the orders,” recognizes Dominique Demedardi, the owner of Gifi's eight island franchises. However, according to him, “There is nothing to worry about.”
“Our regional economic health is good”
Contacted to discuss the situation of the group put up for sale by its founder and the social risks that could result from it, the Ajaccian entrepreneur says he is almost amazed by the media excitement generated and the results announced in the red. “ Our stores are working. Today the founder is 70 years old and wants to hand over the reins.” For the owner, the matter ends there.
