Auchan Retail Advances Plan To Franchise Majority Of French Supermarkets

The project, announced in November 2025, which aims to address pressure on consumer purchasing power and rapid changes in food retail, has now entered the consultation phase with employee representatives.

Following an extensive review of all 266 of its supermarkets, Auchan Retail has identified three options for its further development.

As part of the partnership with Groupement Mousquetaires, 164 supermarkets will transition into a new, independent legal entity owned by Auchan Retail France.

These supermarkets will operate under a franchise agreement with either the Intermarché or Netto banners.

The company hopes to improve price competitiveness and operational efficiency by adopting Intermarché’s business model, which includes simplified operations, a three-year upgrade programme for all stores, and a specialised logistics chain operated by Groupement Mousquetaires.

Additionally, Groupement Mousquetaires has expressed interest in managing three further Auchan Retail sites (Saint-Ouen, Brétigny, and Orly) on a service basis.

Integration Plans

The integration of these 164 supermarkets is expected to be completed by April 2027.

Eleven supermarkets will remain within the Auchan Retail France group, operating under different formats.

They have been selected due to their size, location, and long-term potential.

The remaining 91 supermarkets, due to their geographical or economic situations, will be offered for sale to Groupement Mousquetaires, with bids expected in April.

This project aligns with Auchan Retail’s strategy to become an agile, multi-format retailer, operating under various banners while focusing on transforming its hypermarkets into service-oriented, omni-channel hubs.

The implementation of this project remains contingent on consultations with employee representatives and approval from the competition authority.