Delhaize to sell all Belgian stores

By: Trademagazin editor Date: 2023. 03. 10. 09:33

Belgian supermarket chain Delhaize has announced it wants to sell all its integrated supermarkets in Belgium to independent franchisers. In doing so, the chain aims to become more profitable in a hyper-competitive market.

At a meeting with the unions, Delhaize announced plans to spin off all 128 integrated supermarkets in Belgium in order to lower operating costs and ensure more flexibility. The plans may affect wages and working conditions for 15,000 employees, but – according to the retailer – there will be no impact on employment, as all store staff will make the transition to the new independent operators.

The change will have an impact on employment at the head office, where a few positions will be discontinued. However, this is not yet concrete. The transition will take place step by step, starting with an information and consultation round with the trade unions. All shops will keep the Delhaize brand; there is no question of a switch to fellow Ahold Delhaize subsidiary Albert Heijn. Moreover, the shops in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg will not be affected by the operation.

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