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Auchan Moves to Franchise Nearly 300 French Supermarkets Under Intermarché or Netto

Auchan would keep store assets, with Intermarché supplying merchandising under a franchise contract.

Overview

  • Around 294 supermarkets in metropolitan France, excluding Corsica, are targeted, including 261 integrated stores and 33 already run by franchisees subject to their agreement.
  • Auchan plans a dedicated legal entity to operate the outlets under Intermarché or Netto banners, with employees remaining on Auchan contracts.
  • The project requires clearance from competition authorities and consultation with employee representatives, with a possible start by late 2026.
  • Management says the shift could add more than six points of price competitiveness for shoppers, with Auchan continuing to book about €3.3 billion in turnover from the stores.
  • Unions voiced strong concern over staff status and benefits, as the move deepens a broader alliance with Les Mousquetaires following recent Casino and Colruyt integrations and the Aura Retail purchasing pact.