Auchan and Metro join forces

Auchan Group and Metro Group-owned Makro have joined forces in Portugal to create InterCompra, an entity that will negotiate buying contracts on behalf of the two companies.

The two companies hope that this
initiative will "bring greater efficiency and add value across
the supply chain for national suppliers, the two retail groups and
pass on these benefits to consumers". The CEO of Auchan
Portugal, Américo Ribeiro said: "The creation of
InterCompra will bring great benefits both for Jumbo and Pão
de Açúcar customers as well as our partners through
optimising results, reducing costs and administrative work. This
partnership will also provide the opportunity for suppliers to
develop their business relationship both with the Auchan Group and
Makro. InterCompra will become operational at the end of March and
begin its first negotiations with 50 suppliers. It is likely that
other chains may join InterCompra." Matthias Hinz, CEO of Makro
Cash & Carry Portugal said: "Portugal is a highly
competitive market. Intercompra will help us and also our suppliers
and business customers, to compete more effectively in this
competitive environment."